Do I need an international driving permit?
Within the EU and EEA, your German driving license in credit card format is sufficient without restrictions. For popular travel destinations outside Europe, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan, an international driving permit is recommended or even mandatory. Apply for it at your local vehicle registration office — it costs only 15–20 euros, is issued immediately, and is valid for 3 years. In Thailand, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates, the international driving permit is mandatory. Important: It is only valid when presented together with the national driving license.
What should I pay attention to regarding the fuel policy?
The fairest policy is 'Full/Full': you receive the car with a full tank and return it full — this way, you only pay for the fuel you actually use. Avoid the 'Full/Empty' policy, where you pay for a full tank and return the car empty — here, you will pay significantly inflated per-liter prices (often 2.50–3.50 euros instead of market price). Some providers charge a service fee of 20–50 euros for refueling if you do not return the car with a full tank. Take a photo of the fuel gauge at pickup and keep the last fuel receipt as proof.
How do I rent a child seat for the rental car?
Child seats can be booked with almost all rental car providers and typically cost 5–15 euros per day, often with a maximum of 50–100 euros per rental. Since availability is limited, you should definitely reserve the child seat when booking and not wait until you arrive. Alternatively, you can bring your own child seat — most airlines transport it for free as special luggage. Check at pickup whether the seat is intact and properly secured. In the entire EU, child seat regulations apply up to a height of 150 cm.
Is a navigation device worth it or is a phone sufficient?
Within the EU, your smartphone with Google Maps or Waze is the best and cheapest navigation option thanks to roaming without additional costs. Download the offline maps of your travel area in case mobile coverage is patchy. Rental car GPS devices cost an extra 8–15 euros per day and often have outdated maps. Outside the EU, a local SIM card (5–15 euros with data volume) or an eSIM is recommended to avoid high roaming costs. Invest in a good phone holder for the car and bring a car charger, as GPS navigation drains the battery quickly.
How does tolling work in European countries?
Toll systems in Europe are inconsistent: In France, Italy, and Spain, you pay tolls at toll stations based on distance — a highway trip from Paris to Marseille costs about 55 euros. In Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic, you need a vignette (Austria: 10-day vignette 9.90 euros, Switzerland: annual vignette 40 CHF). In Portugal and Croatia, there are electronic toll systems linked to the rental car license plate. Clarify with your rental provider before your trip whether a toll transponder is included. Unprepared toll costs can easily amount to 100–200 euros per week.
What does a one-way rental cost?
A one-way rental, where you return the car at a different location, incurs an additional fee of 50–500 euros, depending on distance and country. Within the same country, the fees are moderate — for example, 50–150 euros from Munich to Hamburg. International one-way rentals (e.g., Germany to Italy) often cost an extra 200–500 euros and are not possible with many providers. In the USA, one-way rentals within the same state are often free, while between different states, fees of 100–300 USD apply. Book early and compare multiple providers.
Is there an age restriction for renting a car?
The minimum age for renting a car is 21 years in most countries, with some providers allowing 18 or 23 years. Drivers under 25 years old almost everywhere pay a 'young driver surcharge' of 10–30 euros per day due to higher insurance premiums. For luxury and sports car categories, the minimum age is often 25 or even 30 years. There are also upper age limits: some rental companies do not accept drivers over 75 years old or require a medical certificate. Check the age conditions at the time of booking.
What should I pay attention to when picking up the vehicle?
Take at least 10 minutes for a thorough inspection of the vehicle before departure. Photograph or film all existing scratches, dents, and damages to the body, wheels, and windshield — even minor damages. Compare the documented damages in the handover protocol and insist that any pre-existing damage is recorded. Check the fuel level, mileage, and whether all mirrors, lights, and wipers are functioning. When returning the car, take photos again and get written confirmation of the inspection.
Which platforms are best for booking a rental car?
Comparison portals like CHECK24, billiger-mietwagen.de, and Sunny Cars offer the best price overview and consolidate offers from dozens of providers. The advantage: These portals often include comprehensive insurance without a deductible in the price, which can be expensive when booked directly. Book 4–8 weeks in advance for the best prices and look for free cancellation options. Direct bookings with major providers like Europcar, Sixt, or Hertz are especially worthwhile for regular customers with status benefits. Always compare the total price including all insurances.
