If you are new to the UK, renting a car might feel like the easiest way to explore the country — especially if you are planning a weekend trip or visiting remote areas. But before you drive off, there are a few important things to know about renting and driving in the UK.
This guide walks you through the process step by step, from booking a vehicle to understanding UK road rules.
Can Tourists and Newcomers Rent a Car?
Yes — as long as you have a valid driving licence and meet the rental company’s age and document requirements, you can rent a car in the UK. Most companies also accept international licences.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the UK
To rent a car, you will usually need:
- A valid driving licence (UK or international)
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence is not in English or not from an EU/EEA country
- A passport or national ID
- A credit card in the driver’s name
- Proof of address (for longer-term rentals)
- Be at least 21 years old (some companies require 25+ for certain cars)
👉 Check if you need an IDP for the UK
Booking Your Rental Car
You can book:
- Directly on a rental company’s website (e.g. Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, Avis)
- Through comparison sites (e.g. Rentalcars.com, Kayak, Discover Cars)
- At airports or major train stations
Booking in advance usually gives you better prices and more options.
👉 Compare UK car rental prices here
Types of Rental Cars
UK rental cars come in sizes such as:
- Mini / Economy (easier for city driving)
- Compact or Full-size
- SUVs or 7-seaters for families or groups
- Automatic or manual transmission (manual is more common in the UK)
If you are not used to driving manual, choose an automatic when booking.
Understanding Insurance
Your rental car will include basic insurance, but check what it covers.
Common types:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): covers damage to the rental car
- Theft Protection: covers if the car is stolen
- Third-Party Liability: covers damage to others
There is often a high excess (amount you pay before insurance covers the rest). You can buy:
- Additional coverage from the rental company
- Third-party excess insurance (usually cheaper online)
👉 Compare rental excess insurance here
Fuel Policies
Common options include:
- Full to Full: You pick up the car with a full tank and return it full
- Prepaid Fuel: You pay in advance and return the car empty
Full to Full is often cheaper, but remember to fill up near the drop-off location.
👉 Find fuel stations near major airports
Driving in the UK — What You Need to Know
- Drive on the left-hand side of the road
- Most cars are right-hand drive
- Seat belts are required for all passengers
- Use roundabouts instead of four-way stops
- Speed limits are in miles per hour
Speed limits:
- 30 mph in towns and cities
- 60 mph on single-lane rural roads
- 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways
Speed cameras are common, and fines can be issued even if you have left the UK.
Tolls, Parking, and Congestion Charges
- The UK has very few toll roads, but bridges and tunnels (like the Dartford Crossing) may charge fees
- London has a Congestion Charge and ULEZ (low-emission zone) — check if your car qualifies
- Pay-and-display parking is common — bring coins or download local apps (e.g. RingGo or PayByPhone)
👉 View Congestion Charge rules and ULEZ checker here
Returning the Car
When returning:
- Refill fuel if using Full to Full
- Remove rubbish and personal items
- Take photos of the car for your records
- Arrive on time — late returns may be charged extra
Check the drop-off time carefully and confirm the location (some are separate from airport terminals).
Optional Extras
You can usually add:
- GPS / Sat Nav (or use a phone app)
- Child seats
- Extra drivers
- Unlimited mileage (ideal for longer trips)
👉 Shop car phone holders, chargers and travel accessories here
Final Thoughts
Renting a car in the UK gives you flexibility, especially if you want to explore the countryside, small towns, or coastlines. The process is straightforward if you book in advance, bring the right documents, and understand the basics of UK driving.
Always read the rental agreement carefully, check insurance coverage, and drive cautiously on unfamiliar roads.