9 Secret Things to Know About Renting Out an Automobile in France

Renting a car in France can be a convenient and exciting way to explore the beautiful countryside, historic cities, and charming villages. However, before embarking on your road trip adventure, there are several important things you should know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we will reveal 9 secret things that every traveler should be aware of when renting out an automobile in France.

1. International Driving Permit (IDP)

First and foremost, it is crucial to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before arriving in France. This permit translates your native driver’s license into multiple languages, making it easier for French authorities to understand your qualifications. While some agencies may accept your regular driver’s license, having an IDP as an additional form of identification is highly recommended.

Having an IDP not only helps with language barriers but also ensures that you meet the legal requirements for driving in France. It serves as proof of your driving skills and can come in handy in case of any unexpected situations or interactions with local authorities. To obtain an IDP, you will need to apply in your home country before your trip.

2. Minimum Age and License Requirements

In France, the minimum age to rent a car varies between rental agencies. Generally, most companies require the driver to be at least 21 years old, while some luxury and larger vehicles may have a minimum age of 25. It’s important to check the age requirements of the specific rental agency you plan to use.

Additionally, you must hold a valid driver’s license from your home country. Ensure that your driver’s license is valid for the entire duration of your rental period. If your license is not in English or French, it is recommended to have an official translation or an IDP to avoid any potential issues.

3. Booking in Advance

To secure the best rates and availability, it is advisable to book your rental car in advance. This will not only save you money but also allow you to choose from a wider selection of vehicles. Popular tourist destinations and peak seasons can lead to a higher demand for rental cars, so booking early will help you avoid any last-minute disappointments.

When booking in advance, consider the duration of your rental period and the type of vehicle you need. If you plan to explore rural areas or mountainous regions, it may be wise to choose a car with sufficient power and good traction. On the other hand, if you’ll be primarily driving in cities, a smaller and more maneuverable car may be more suitable.

4. Insurance Coverage

Insurance is a crucial aspect of renting a car in France. Most rental companies offer basic insurance coverage, but it is essential to understand the terms and conditions before making a decision. Basic coverage usually includes collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection.

Consider additional insurance options to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances, such as theft or damage to the vehicle. Some rental companies offer additional coverage options, such as personal accident insurance and roadside assistance. Third-party travel insurance may also provide coverage for rental cars, so be sure to check your policy.

5. Fuel Policy

Understanding the fuel policy is essential to avoid any unexpected charges. Rental cars in France typically have a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you receive the car with a full tank and are expected to return it the same way. This policy ensures transparency and allows you to only pay for the fuel you use.

Remember to refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges for refueling at the rental agency’s rates, which can be significantly higher. Before your trip, research nearby gas stations and plan your fuel stops accordingly, especially when traveling long distances or in remote areas.

6. Toll Roads and Vignettes

France has an extensive network of toll roads, especially on major highways. It is essential to plan your route and be prepared to pay tolls using either cash or credit cards. Some rental cars are equipped with an electronic toll collection system, which automatically deducts the toll fees. Make sure you understand how the system works and whether it is available in the car you rent.

Additionally, certain regions in France, such as Paris and Lyon, require a vignette (sticker) displayed on the windshield to drive within the city limits. Research the specific requirements of the cities you plan to visit to ensure compliance with their regulations.

7. Parking Regulations

Parking regulations in France vary depending on the city and region. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the local parking regulations to avoid fines or having your vehicle towed. Look for designated parking areas, such as public parking garages or lots, to ensure the safety of your rental car. In some cities, street parking may require payment at parking meters or through mobile apps.

When parking on the street, pay attention to parking signs and restrictions. Some areas may have limited parking hours or require a parking disc to indicate the time of arrival. It’s always a good idea to have spare change for parking meters or a mobile payment app installed on your phone.

8. Speed Limits and Traffic Laws

France has specific speed limits and traffic laws that must be adhered to. The standard speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on non-urban roads, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways, unless otherwise indicated. It is important to drive within the speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions.

Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws, including right-of-way rules, traffic signs, and parking restrictions. France has strict drunk driving laws, with a legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.05%. It is best to avoid drinking and driving altogether to ensure your safety and comply with the law.

9. Roadside Assistance

Before setting off on your journey, ensure that your rental agency provides 24/7 roadside assistance. This service can be invaluable in case of emergencies, breakdowns, or accidents. Save the emergency contact number provided by the rental company in your phone and keep a copy of it in the car for easy access.

Roadside assistance can help you with flat tires, battery jump-starts, lockouts, and towing services. Knowing that help is just a phone call away can provide peace of mind during your road trip, especially when exploring unfamiliar territories.

With these 9 secret things in mind, you are now well-prepared to rent out an automobile and explore the breathtaking landscapes of France. Remember to plan ahead, obtain the necessary permits, understand the insurance coverage, and familiarize yourself with local traffic laws. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable road trip experience. Bon voyage!

Thinking about renting a car in France? Make the most of your trip by reading these important tips before you go.

Essential Tips for Renting a Car in France

Book from home.

It will be cheaper to book your car from the United States before you get to France. The further ahead you reserve your car, the better the chance of landing a deal because you can watch out for price drops.

You do not need an International Driving Permit.

Your US- or Canadian-issued driver’s license in English will be accepted in France. There’s no need to get an International Driving Permit, which is simply a translated version of your state-issued driver’s license, but if you’re going to be traveling to other European countries it can be a good idea to have one.

You’ll drive on the right.

Like in all of continental Europe, people drive on the right side of the road in France.

Pay for the rental in euros.

Although it may seem easier to be charged in dollars instead of euros, this option will cost you more in the long run. Pay in the local currency to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion fees. If you opt to pay in U.S. dollars, the rental car company converts the purchase amount from the local currency on your behalf. But this process is entirely unnecessary, since your credit card company will process the transaction in either currency, and you will pay through the nose for the non-convenience.

Double check your insurance coverage.

Before you leave home, be sure to contact your credit card company to verify what collision coverage, if any, it offers on car rentals abroad. You may have to purchase collision insurance over the counter when you pick up the car.

It is required by law in France that drivers carry unlimited third-party liability insurance, and as a result liability coverage is automatically included in the price of all car rentals. The advantage of having this car rental insurance in France is that you are protected from injury, death or property damage to others which occur while operating your rental during your trip to France.

Expect to pay more for an automatic transmission.

Do you know how to drive a car with a stick shift? The vast majority of France’s rental vehicles have manual transmission. If you want a car with an automatic transmission, be sure to specify this when you book the car.

Prepare for high taxes and surcharges.

Rental car rates generally include France’s 20% Value Added Tax (VAT).

Inspect the car carefully before driving it off the lot.

Make sure to protect yourself from potential false damage claims by carefully look over your car before driving away. Document every nick, scratch or dent. Your smartphone will come in handy for taking photos of any imperfections to ensure you won’t have to pay for them later.

Don’t drive in Paris.

Driving is a great way to explore the French countryside, but cruising around the sprawling capital of Paris is not recommended for those who are unfamiliar with the city. Even if you consider yourself a pro at city driving, the high parking fees, narrow streets, traffic and confusing intersections will make for a stressful experience and, besides, Paris has an excellent public transportation system in its Métro. Plan to pick up the rental car when you’re ready to leave the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in France?

Yes, it is highly recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before arriving in France. While some agencies may accept your regular driver’s license, having an IDP as an additional form of identification is recommended.

What are the minimum age and license requirements to rent a car in France?

The minimum age to rent a car in France varies between rental agencies, but generally, most companies require the driver to be at least 21 years old. Some luxury and larger vehicles may have a minimum age requirement of 25. You must also hold a valid driver’s license from your home country.

Is it advisable to book a rental car in advance?

Yes, it is advisable to book your rental car in advance to secure the best rates and availability. Booking early will also help you avoid any last-minute disappointments, especially during peak seasons or in popular tourist destinations.

What insurance coverage should I consider when renting a car in France?

Most rental companies offer basic insurance coverage, including collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection. It is important to understand the terms and conditions of the insurance before making a decision. Consider additional insurance options, such as personal accident insurance and roadside assistance, to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances.

What is needed to rent a car in Europe?

Check out several websites to find an affordable car rental in Europe. Booking online is also an option.

Before renting a vehicle from us, you need to ensure that you have all information.

Your full name including any middle names (if any)
The address you are staying
Date, Time & Place of Pickup
Rent a vehicle by making & model
Insurance company and policy number
Special requests for equipment
Details about the rental agreement (e.g. rate, duration, deposit, balance due after trip, excess charges and limits of liability. Cancellation penalties.
Payment method(s), including cash, credit card, debit cards, cash and personal cheques

Once you have collected all of the above information, you can book your vehicle with one of the companies listed above.

Which countries accept US driver’s licenses

The United States does NOT recognize driver’s licenses from other countries as valid on its roads. However, Canada, Mexico, and the District of Columbia recognize them.

Canada recognizes American driver’s licenses issued by all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Mexico also recognizes American driver’s licences. However, they are currently only recognized in Chihuahua.

The District of Columbia accepts American driver’s licenses from all 50 states except Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, and West Virginia.

How can I rent a car in a different country?

The best way to do this would be by using an international rental agency such as Hertz, Avis, or Europcar. These companies have offices in Europe and offer services both for long-term and short-term rental.

They provide customer support 24 hours a day, 7 nights a week.

You don’t need to have any prior experience when renting from them. They can arrange insurance and breakdown cover. All you need to know is where to go and what time to turn up.

Is it possible to rent a car in Europe and then return it?

It would make travelling easier if you could rent cars across multiple countries and have them return to the place they were rented.

But, this might not be practical as people may not want to pay extra for mileage. Rental agencies often charge more to return a car to an area other than the one it was originally rented.

You may not want to travel frequently so it is best to only choose one country you will be staying for a while.

Do you have a need for a car throughout Europe?

It all depends on where and what you are looking for. A typical European city might have different priorities from a rural area.

You also need to think about how long you are going to be in each country. You might need a more economical car if your plans are to move frequently.

In most cases, buying a second-hand car is better than renting one. Renting a car in Europe can be more expensive than buying a second-hand vehicle. There are many reasons for this. You can save money on fuel costs, parking fees, maintenance, insurance, taxes, and so forth.

Another benefit is the fact that you can drive your car without any distractions.

You can find excellent information on car rental in Europe on a variety of websites. We recommend checking out our recommendations below.

Statistics

If you’re a member of AAA, you might also be able to snag discounts of 10 percent at Thrifty, and 8 percent at Dollar. (afar.com)
For canceled trips two days or shorter, a guest is charged 50% of one day’s trip cost. (insider.com)
Save up to 30% on your rental car in Europe when you book with us today. (autoeurope.com)
American Airlines, for example, offers AAdvantage members 35% off Budget and Avis — but you need to rent from an airport. (nerdwallet.com)
Automatics are more expensive (usually about 50 percent more) and may only be available if you upgrade to a bigger, pricier car. (ricksteves.com)

External Links

How To

Tips for Booking a Rental Car In Europe

Europe can be divided into several countries and cities. Paris, London (and Rome), Barcelona, Madrid and Madrid are some of the most sought-after destinations. Enterprise Rent-A-Car (Hertz, Avis and Europcar) offer car hire services around the world. They are available at major airports as well train stations and in cities. They usually provide cars with drivers and fuel included. For example, you can rent a Volkswagen Polo from 1 day to 2 weeks starting from EUR 40 per day.

The booking process will vary depending on where you are located. There are many payment options available in some countries, such as Spain. Sometimes, the price includes taxes and fees. Check out the website of the car rental company before making any reservations. If you do not know where you want to go or if you simply prefer to drive yourself, check out these companies:Alamo,Avis,Europcar,Budget,National, andThrifty

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