Hainan Island car rental

If your driving licence is issued in the EU/EEA, it is accepted throughout China without an international permit. For licences in non-Latin scripts (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside your original licence. It's always a good idea to carry an IDP as a backup.

For the best rates, we recommend booking your rental car in Hainan Island at least 3–6 weeks ahead. During peak season (June–September) or major events, booking 2–3 months in advance is advisable. Early booking not only guarantees availability but also unlocks lower prices and a wider choice of vehicles.

Most major rental companies at airports in China have extended operating hours or 24-hour counters. If your flight is delayed, contact the rental company as soon as possible. Many offer a grace period of 1–2 hours. If the delay is significant, they can usually reschedule your pick-up to the next day without penalty — just call ahead.

The security deposit is typically released within 7–14 business days after you return the car, provided there is no damage. Some banks may take up to 30 days to process the refund. The deposit is a temporary hold on your credit card — the actual amount blocked depends on the vehicle class and insurance coverage chosen.

If you receive a traffic fine while driving in China, the rental company will typically forward it to you along with an administration fee (€20–50). Pay the fine promptly to avoid escalation. If you disagree, you can appeal through the issuing authority. Always photograph any unclear signage as evidence. Keep your rental agreement handy for reference.

Cross-border travel from China is often restricted or requires prior approval from the rental company. Additional insurance may be needed, and fees can apply. Some destinations may be prohibited entirely. Always check the rental terms and declare your travel plans when booking to avoid issues.

This depends on the fuel policy you selected:

• Full-to-full — the most common and economical option. You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full.
• Full-to-empty — you pay for a full tank upfront and can return it empty, but this is usually more expensive.

Always check your rental agreement. Returning a “full-to-full“ car without refuelling results in a costly per-litre surcharge.

Airport rental offices in Hainan Island often charge a premium of 10–20% due to airport surcharges. City-centre locations may offer better base rates but factor in the cost of getting there. Compare both options on Cars Scanner — sometimes free shuttle services from the airport make city pickups worthwhile.