Car driving through Glencoe, Scotland. Scottish Highlands.

Step-by-step car hire process

Use our step-by-step guide to car hire in the United Kingdom to get out of the slow lane and onto the expressway. With VroomVroomVroom you can have your perfect hire car selected and booked in under two minutes.

At VroomVroomVroom, we understand that renting a car can be confusing at times. Understanding the process from research to return means that your car rental experience can be a positive one. Take a look below at our step-by-step guide next time you rent a car in the UK.

Step 1: Know the requirements before hiring a car

Pick the best vehicle to suit your needs

  • Before you book your car hire, make sure you do your research to find the right type of vehicle for you. Think about where you are going, if you are inner-city driving or travelling long distances and what type of vehicle you are comfortable driving.

Check the requirements

Check for age restrictions

  • Be sure to check for any age restictions — more often than not, you need to be at least 21-years-old to hire a car in the United Kingdom, and a Young Drivers Surcharge may apply to anyone aged 21-24.

Research excess reduction insurance

  • If any damaged is caused to your vehicle while it is in your possession, you’ll be liable to pay an excess amount. The excess amount will be displayed in your car rental agreement. By purchasing excess reduction insurance, you can reduce your excess amount.

Step 2: Compare deals and add extras when booking a car

Compare, choose and book

  • Booking your car hire is a simple and easy process at VroomVroomVroom. It’s as efficient as comparing different cars, choosing your perfect rental and booking in under 2 minutes.

Add any extras into your rental booking

  • Will you require a child seat or GPS device? You can either contact our Customer Care Team via email or reply to your confirmation email with the child’s age and seat type. The same applies if you would like a GPS. Another option is contacting the supplier directly or messaging us through chat.

Step 3: Have a pick up checklist

Arrive at the car rental depot

  • Take note of the time specified on your booking confirmation and the documents required by the car hire provider. This is when you will need to arrive at the depot to collect your hire car. Ensure that you have your booking confirmation, drivers license and any required documents.

Check the details of your rental agreement

  • Check the Terms and Conditions of your rental and ask questions if there is anything you do not understand. Your rental agreement will contain important details about your rental car and show you the excess amount of the vehicle.

Check the vehicle for any damage

  • Before you pick up your hire car and leave the depot, make sure you check your rental car for any damage not listed in the report. It is a good idea to take some photos if you find any additional damage. You should also report any damage so that it can be added to the report.

Step 4: Know the road rules and toll charges before driving your car

Be aware of any driving restrictions

  • The United Kingdom has many toll roads, and when you reach a toll road, you’ll need to pay in order to continue. You can pay in cash, card or with a special pass.

Step 5: Return your hire car

Make sure you have a full tank of fuel

  • To avoid any additional charges, make sure you have filled the car with fuel before you return it to the depot. You will not be required to do this if you have pre-purchased fuel. Find a petrol station close to your depot and allow plenty of time to get there.

Pay all outstanding charges

  • You will be charged for any damage caused to the rental car during your rental period. You may also have to pay extra if you have exceeded the mileage limit, or if you have returned the car without a full tank of fuel.

Learn more about how to book a hire car in the UK