Renting a Car for the First Time: What Do You Need to Know? 7 Things to Check Before Picking Up Your Car

Renting a self-drive car to travel to other provinces, or using it as a replacement vehicle while waiting for repairs, is now easy to book online with just a few clicks. However, for those who are about to "rent a car for the first time", there are often many questions and concerns in mind. Whether it's about documents needed, deposit retention, or what to do if an accident occurs?

This article has compiled 7 important things you need to know and should check carefully before signing the rental agreement, to protect your rights and make your trip as smooth as possible.

1. Prepare documents and "credit card" in advance

Standard car rental companies have strict document requirements to prevent fraud and theft. Here are the things you need to prepare on the day you pick up the car:

• Original ID card: Must not be expired, and the name must match the primary renter.

• Driver's license: Must also not be expired. You can use either the original card license or a digital license through the Department of Land Transport application.

• Credit card (very important): Most car rental companies use a pre-authorization method to lock a credit limit as a deposit (usually around 5,000 - 10,000 baht depending on the size and model of the car). This limit will be released when you return the car in normal condition.

(Note: If you don't have a credit card, you can read more alternative details at the end of the article.)

2. Understand "car rental insurance" before buying additional coverage

The daily car rental rate shown on the website usually already includes basic insurance, but the basic insurance may not cover everything. Understanding car rental insurance terms will help you choose coverage that fits your needs:

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): This is basic insurance. If an accident occurs and you are at fault, or if you are hit and the other party escapes, you will have to pay the first part of the damage (Deductible), such as the first 3,000 - 5,000 baht. Suitable for experienced drivers.

• SCDW (Super CDW): This is a premium tier 1 insurance. If an accident occurs, you don't have to pay any deductible at all (Zero Deductible), whether you are at fault or not.

Recommendation: If you are renting a car for the first time and are not yet used to the car's size, it is recommended to spend a bit more to buy SCDW insurance. This will give you peace of mind throughout the trip. You won't need to worry about scratches or stone chips.

3. Inspect the car condition carefully "always take video"

When the staff brings the car for handover, don't rush to take the keys. Take time to walk around and inspect the car thoroughly with the staff. This is the step that will help protect you from being fined for damage you didn't cause:

1. Scratches and dents: Walk around the car and check the bumpers, front-back, wheel rims, and stone chips on the windshield. If you find any damage, ask the staff to mark it on the car handover form immediately.

2. Inside the cabin: Check for stains on the seats, burn marks, or cigarette smell (if the car smells musty or has cigarette smell, rush to request a car change. Otherwise, you may be fined for cleaning when returning the car).

3. Accessories and spare tire: Open the trunk to check if the spare tire, jack, and basic tools are included in the car.

4. Recording evidence: It is recommended to use your mobile phone to take an unedited video walking around the car, including taking photos of the odometer and fuel gauge as evidence.

4. Understand the Fuel Policy

The basic international rule for car rental is "return it the same way you received it"

Typically, car rental companies use a Full to Full policy, meaning the car comes with a full tank. When you return the car, you must stop at a gas station to fill up the tank and bring the receipt as proof. If you return the car with insufficient fuel, the company will charge you for the missing fuel plus a service charge, which will be more expensive than filling up at a regular gas station.

5. Check "mileage limit" conditions (Mileage Policy)

Typical car rental packages have 2 main formats that you should check carefully before booking:

• Unlimited Mileage: You can drive as many kilometers as you want. Suitable for those planning to drive long distances to other provinces or on long road trips.

• Limited Mileage: The contract will clearly state how many kilometers you can drive per day (for example, not more than 200 km per day). If you drive more than the specified distance, you will be charged an additional fee of 5-10 baht per kilometer as agreed.

6. Get familiar with car functions before driving on the road

Each car model and brand has different button locations and functions. Before driving out of the car rental company's parking lot, you should adapt and find the important buttons first:

• Fuel tank cap button: Where is it located? And what type of fuel does this car use? (E20, 91, 95, or diesel?) Many people have made mistakes at the gas pump about this.

• Lights and wipers: Try opening the headlights, turn signals, and windshield wipers to get used to them.

• Connectivity: Try connecting Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto to set up the navigation system (GPS) before you start driving.

7. Emergency contact number and what to do in case of an incident

Accidents are something no one wants to happen, but preparing in advance will help you handle the situation better:

• Save emergency numbers: Save the Call Center number or Roadside Assistance number of the car rental company in your phone immediately.

• Never settle with the other party on your own: If an accident occurs, no matter how minor the damage is, or whether you are at fault or not, never negotiate and pay compensation to each other on your own. Call the car rental company immediately and wait for the insurance adjuster of the car rental company or a police officer to handle it at the scene.

Summary: Can you rent a car without a credit card?

Renting a car for the first time is not as complicated or scary as you might think. The key is to read the contract terms thoroughly, buy insurance that covers the risks, and always inspect and video record the car as evidence.

For those who are worried about the deposit requirement because they "don't have a credit card", don't worry! Currently, you can rent a car even without a credit card, but you may need to provide additional identity and employment documents. (Documents you need to prepare, such as: latest salary slip, letter of employment, or round-trip flight tickets) to rent a car with cash or debit card instead.

If you are a beginner looking to rent a car for the first time, try renting with us at MIDO Car Rental. We have many branches serving different areas, ready to provide detailed advice on documents, and help make your car rental experience as easy as possible.

Interested in renting new condition vehicles, confident driving, with transparent service? Check out the details of car models and promotions at various branches.