What you need to rent a car is usually an ID card or passport, a valid driving licence and a way to pay the deposit. The details differ by store and by vehicle category, though, and the insurance terms are what make the difference if something happens. This guide explains the documents, the licence and age requirements and what the common terms mean, so you arrive at the pick-up prepared.
Identification: what you show at the store
The store checks your identification, meaning an ID card or passport, and the driver's licence. The details must match what you gave in the booking. Anyone who will drive must present their own documents and be named in the contract.
Bring the originals. A photo on your phone is rarely enough. If the booking was made in a different name from the driver's, tell the store before the pick-up.
Driving licence and international permit
For a car you need a driving licence valid in Greece that suits the category of the vehicle, usually category B. Licences issued in an EU country are accepted, while for licences from other countries the store may also ask for an international driving permit. Confirm with the store, and check whether your licence uses Latin characters.
Many stores ask that the licence has been held for a certain period, for example one or two years. If you are a new driver, check the rule before booking, so you do not find out at the pick-up that you are not accepted.
Minimum age and young drivers
Each store sets its minimum age and may vary it by category. For larger or more powerful cars the limit is often higher. Young drivers may have an extra charge or a higher excess on damage.
If you travel with young friends, ask who can be named as a driver. Do not let anyone drive without being written into the contract, because that can void the insurance cover.
Deposit and payment method
Many stores ask for a deposit, often by holding an amount on the driver's card. The amount depends on the vehicle and the cover you choose. Check before booking whether a card is needed, in whose name it must be and when the amount is released.
On Ridom you pay the advance online and the balance at the store. The deposit, where one is requested, is a separate amount from the advance and is set by the store. Read the terms shown before you complete the booking.
Insurance: what is included
Third-party liability insurance must be included in the rental. It covers damage and injury you cause to others, not damage to the rental vehicle itself. For that there are optional covers, and what is included depends on the store.
Read the terms, because the names can differ. If it is not clear what is covered, ask before the pick-up and request that it is put in writing.
CDW, damage waiver and excess
The collision damage waiver (CDW) limits what you pay if the rental car is damaged, but an excess usually remains. Extended cover (often SCDW or FDW) reduces or removes the excess. Theft protection (TP) concerns the loss of the vehicle.
Ask how much the excess is, what it costs to reduce it and which damage is not included. Tyres, wheel rims, glass, the underside, the interior and the keys are often excluded, and the cover can be voided if the terms are breached, for example by driving under the influence of alcohol.
Fines, tolls and accidents
Traffic fines and tolls are the responsibility of the driver who rented the vehicle. The store may give your details to the authorities and charge administration costs. If you will use toll roads, ask how they are charged.
In an accident or breakdown, call the roadside assistance number you were given and tell the store. Do not agree to payments on the spot without speaking to the store, and photograph the scene and the other driver's details.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on the country that issued your licence. EU licences are usually accepted, while for licences from other countries the store may also ask for an international permit. Ask before you travel.
What is the minimum age to rent?
It is set by each store and changes by vehicle category. Young drivers may have an extra charge or a higher excess.
What is a damage waiver (CDW)?
It is cover that limits what you pay if the rental vehicle is damaged. An excess usually remains, and it depends on the store.
Does the insurance cover glass and tyres?
Not always. Tyres, wheel rims, glass and the underside are often excluded or have separate cover. Read the terms.
Who pays the fines?
Traffic fines are the responsibility of the driver who rented the vehicle. The store may also charge administration costs.
Useful destination resources
These routes are editorial suggestions. Check access, conditions and current opening hours before you travel.
