Car rental can be effortless and fast, and failure to carry the necessary papers can be disastrous to your travel itinerary. The following is what you should know.
It is better to know about the documents you may need to rent a car, such as additional deposits, to save time and avoid potential issues like refusal to book. Being prepared beforehand is always beneficial.
Essential Documents Required for Car Rental in India
The popular self-drive car rental services in India have similar requirements regarding the documents to ensure a safe and transparent process.
The first and most considerable document is a legal driving license. Your license should be original, not expired, and applicable to the kind of vehicle.
Foreigners are also required to produce an International Driving Permit (IDP) besides the valid driving license of their country. This is compulsory in India when renting.
The second document that is required is an identity proof, which would be an Aadhaar card, passport, or a voter ID card. Make sure to bring a physical copy of the original rather than a digital scan.
Otherwise, you have to come along with an address proof in case your ID proof does not have your present address. This may be a power bill, lease agreement, or bank statement.
Security deposit payments and tax compliance both require a valid PAN card. Carry a copy of the original PAN card or a clear copy.
Most of the rental companies withhold a refundable security deposit on your credit or debit card.
When renting out on a business basis, the business ID Card or the business proof may also be demanded, and in case of a corporate booking, it will certainly be in demand.
Why Rental Companies Need These Documents
Car rental services need to ensure they follow safety regulations and confirm their check renters ‘ driving competence and identity. This minimizes abuse and safeguards the car.
Offering such documents makes the booking process safe, legitimate, and transparent to the renter and the rental company.
Documents Required for Foreign Tourists Renting a Car
Foreign citizens planning to visit the country should have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a valid driver’s license.
Moreover, bring your passport and a duplicate of your Indian visa to prove your period of stay and identity.
Other rental agencies can also request information about the hotel booked or the local telephone contacts as a security measure.
Age Requirements and Additional Checks
In India, the majority of rental firms expect the driver to be 21 years old. If you are looking to buy a high-end car, such as a Fortuner or Thar, you may have to be 23 or even 25 years old.
When you are young and driving, you may require more documentation or a bigger deposit to cover the rental agency’s risks.
When you are making a car reservation, it is best that you look at the age requirement first, so you do not have any surprises when collecting the car.
Renting Premium SUVs and Off-Road Vehicles
Want to rent the famous SUVs such as Thar, Fortuner, or Hilux?You may need to furnish an extra address proof or a fresh utility bill.
Such cars typically demand a higher refundable deposit, and renting companies check the information regarding premium models more carefully.
In case you are organising an off-road trip or will go on a distant journey, clarify beforehand what documents you need, as this will save you time later.
Renting For Someone else?
It is possible to rent a car in the name of a friend or family member. Yet, the person driving should carry their legitimate driving license and identification in their original form.
The security deposit card should likewise be of the driver or already authorised by the rental agency to complete the reservation.
Long-Term and Monthly Car Rentals
In the case of monthly car rental in Chandigarh or any other long-run booking, the rental companies can request the address proof to be updated every 30 days.
This assists in maintaining records of the customers correctly and in compliance with longer leases.
They can even request recent utility bills, a new copy of identification, or new contact information.
Quick Checklist Before You Pick Up the Car
To avoid any problems, keep this checklist ready:
- Original driving license (and IDP if you’re a tourist)
- Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID for identity proof
- Address proof if your ID doesn’t show your current address.
- PAN card for tax and deposit purposes
Carrying original physical documents is always recommended. Digital copies alone might not be accepted at the pickup location.
Conclusion
It is easy to rent a car in India provided that you know what papers you need to rent a car and have them at hand.
Whether you are taking a weekend getaway, it is an SUV hire, or even you need a monthly car rental in Chandigarh, it is always better to be prepared so that you are not caught in a last-minute tussle.
In case of any doubt or concern, you can reach Gagan Travels, the authorised partner of self-drive hire cars in Chandigarh and North India.
