Traveling, getting to know new places or being able to move freely within the city without depending on cabs and rides through apps is wonderful, isn't it? After all, many times we don't go to certain places because it is too complicated to get there.
For this there is a solution: car rental! A great choice to bring you comfort, practicality and freedom. Want to know what you need to rent a car?
In this post we will clarify some doubts about car rental: the requirements, care and what to do when something unexpected happens. Fasten your seatbelts and enjoy your reading!
After all, what do I need to rent a car?
The documents and requirements change from one rental company to another, but there are some requirements that are considered standard. Check out the main criteria:
Minimum age 21 years
To rent a car on national territory, the standard requirement is that the driver must be at least 21 years old. Ah, but remember that this is not a rule, since this requirement is a criterion of the rental company.
Some businesses allow rentals to young people between 18, but charge extra fees because of age-related risks and lack of experience behind the wheel.
At least 2 years of driving experience
Most companies require a minimum of 2 years of the license. Another important factor is that it must be within the validity period: if your CNH has expired, but is still within the 30 days allowed for driving, it will not be accepted. So keep an eye on the rental company's conditions and requirements!
Personal Documents
Each rental company requires different documents. The most common standard is to present CNH, RG, CPF and proof of residence. With these documents, the rental company can take the necessary measures in case of unforeseen events.
It is worth remembering that the proof of residence must be in the same name as the documents or in the name of a close relative.
Credit Card
It is also common for companies to ask for a credit card with an available limit for pre-authorization of the deposit - for security and warranty reasons. The deposit is a guarantee given to the rental company for possible damage to the car.
What about renting a car abroad? What changes?
There are few differences when renting a car abroad! The Brazilian CNH is accepted in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia and many others.
For countries that do not accept a Brazilian driver's license, you will need to go to your local Detran and ask for an International Driving Permit. This permit varies in value from state to state.
Check out the qualifications needed to rent in the USA, Canada, and Europe!
Another important factor when renting cars abroad is age. Although in Brazil it is possible from the age of 21, some places require the driver to be 25 years old. It is worth remembering that, depending on the rental company, it is possible to drive younger than this age, but for this you will need to pay a daily fee on top of the rental price.
What happens if I crash the vehicle?
The rental company must be informed immediately, regardless of the level of the accident. It is essential that a police report be filed within 24 hours of the occurrence, since the insurance company will be called and the rental company will analyze whether you will have to cover the costs or not.
When renting a car, be sure to pay attention to the insurance of the rental vehicle and how you pay for it. National credit cards will not work, so it is necessary that you have an international card on hand!
What if the vehicle is stolen?
There are insurances that cover thefts and robberies of rental cars. It all depends on the contracted coverage and your contract with the rental company! Regardless of the insurance agreed upon, you must notify the rental company immediately, go to the police station, report the incident within 48 hours and present the police report.
You can never be too careful! When hiring a car rental service, make sure that accident and theft insurance is included in the contract. After all, a small extra fee is much better than paying for a lot of damage.
If you want to travel to another country, take the time to learn about the types of insurance for renting a car abroad!
What happens if I lose the key to the rental car?
The procedure, in general, is simple! Just contact the rental company's roadside assistance number, report what happened, and wait for instructions on how to replace the keys! If you don't have access to the contact, call the company's local office.
Each rental company has its own ways of dealing with a situation like this, but most commonly you will have to pay the cost of a new key. Depending on the model and type of key, the replacement can cost anywhere from $50 to $800.
Can I park the rental vehicle on public roads?
Yes, you can park your rental car on public roads! But to avoid losses due to carelessness with simple things, always be careful. Check out some tips to avoid unforeseen events with your rental car:
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Check that the place is secure and does not have many risks of theft;
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On rainy days, park in open spaces and away from trees;
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Check the door, window and trunk locks;
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Don't leave valuables out in the car; they can attract the attention of burglars.
See also the material we have prepared with tips on how not to be robbed or scammed during your travels.
What happens if I get fined?
The amount of the fine and the points on your license are entirely the responsibility of the person who signed the contract! The fine will be sent to the rental company and they will notify you. If you have an additional driver and he is the driver at the time of the violation, the renter will have to notify the rental company so that the points on his license will go to the right person.
We hope this information was helpful in helping you rent a car! Now that you know about car rental, how about learning about insurance for international travel? We look forward to seeing you in the next post.
