Car rental in Germany

Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ's

1. What are the basic requirements to rent a car in Germany?

To rent a car in Germany, you must be at least 18 years old (although many rental companies require drivers to be over 21 or have a surcharge for younger drivers), have a valid driving license, and a credit card. If your driving license is not in the Latin alphabet (for example, Russian, Chinese, Arabic), you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Proof of insurance may also be required.

2. Is an International Driving Permit mandatory for foreign drivers in Germany?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your driver's license is not written in English or German. Generally, an IDP serves as a translation of your national driving license and as additional identification, but it's not a replacement for your home license, so you need to carry both when driving.

3. Can I drive a rented car in other European countries?

Most car rental companies in Germany allow you to drive their vehicles in other European countries. However, you should inform the rental company if you plan to do so, as there might be additional fees or insurance requirements. Eastern European countries may have restrictions, so it's always best to check beforehand.

4. What types of insurance should I consider when renting a car?

The key types of insurance for car rentals in Germany are Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third-Party Liability, Theft Protection (TP), and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). Some rental prices might include certain insurance types, but it’s important to check your coverage level and consider buying additional insurance if necessary.

5. Are there any specific traffic rules I should be aware of before driving in Germany?

In Germany, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are strictly enforced, with 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on open roads, and variable speed limits on the Autobahn which can go up to 130 km/h recommended (unrestricted sections do exist, but it's often wise to stick to 130 km/h). Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.

6. Are winter tires necessary for car rental in Germany?

Winter tires are compulsory in Germany during winter weather conditions. Rental cars should be equipped with winter tires if you’re renting during the winter months, but always confirm with the rental agency. You may be subject to fines if you drive without winter tires in snowy or icy conditions.

7. What should I do in the event of an accident or breakdown with my rental car?

First, ensure the safety of all passengers and set up the warning triangle if necessary. Next, contact the car rental agency immediately; they will provide instructions on what to do and assist with accident procedures or breakdown services. If there's any damage, a police report might be required for insurance purposes.

8. Can I rent a car with automatic transmission in Germany?

Yes, you can rent cars with automatic transmission in Germany, although they may be less common and more expensive than manual cars. It's advisable to book an automatic car in advance to ensure availability.

9. Are there any tolls for using roads or highways in Germany?

Currently, there are no tolls for private cars on German roads or highways. However, there are tolls for larger vehicles like trucks. Plans for implementing a toll system for all vehicles have been discussed but are not in place as of the knowledge cutoff date for this article.

10. How can I find the best car rental deal in Germany?

To find the best car rental deal in Germany, compare prices online through comparison websites ahead of time. Check for any included insurance or additional fees and read the rental policy carefully for mileage limits or one-way rental restrictions. Also, consider booking your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to get a better rate.