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How To Rent A Car In Germany [2024 Guide]

Expatrio 2024-02-15
A car standing on sand at the beach

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Germany is a stunning country with a fascinating history and culture that is well worth seeing. When visiting Germany, one of the essential things to think about is how you will get around once you arrive. Whether you want to see major cities or go on a day trip out to the countryside, renting a vehicle may be helpful.

Renting a car in Germany involves several different requirements and rules to be met. This article will discuss the requirements and some of the best apps providing great offers and deals on car rental in major cities in Germany. You can also check some tips for making your trip more convenient. Let's get started!

Requirements for renting a vehicle in Germany

Requirements for renting a vehicle in Germany typically include:

  • Being at least 18 years old (some agencies may require you to be at least 21 years old)
  • Having a valid driver's license.
  • Having a Credit card.

It's important to know these requirements before you rent a car, as not meeting them could lead to difficulties when picking up your vehicle.

If you're a foreigner or student in Germany and want to rent a car, you should know a few things. In addition to the above mentioned requirements, many rental agencies also need you to have an IDP also known as International Driving Permit. You can get an IDP at your local automobile association before your trip.

Renting a car in Germany with a debit card is impossible in most cases. Most rental agencies require that you use a credit card when renting, as this is the easiest way to ensure that you can pay for any damages or fines that may occur during your rental. If you do not have a credit card, be sure to check with your rental agency ahead of time to see if there are any other payment options available.

Another thing to keep in mind is that German traffic law is quite different from what you may be used to. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the road rules before hitting the road in Germany.

Finally, it's always a good idea to research the rental agency you'll be using. Ensure they have a good reputation and are licensed to rent cars in Germany. This will help you with a smooth and effortless experience during your trip.

 

The Best Apps for Renting a Car in Germany

There are also numerous apps available for helping travelers rent cars in major cities across Germany. When it comes to finding a cheap car rental in Germany, there are a few things to consider. First of all, it's important to compare prices from different companies before booking.

Additionally, many companies offer loyalty programs and discounts for bookings or longer rentals, so be sure to ask about these when you're inquiring about rates. Finally, remember that gas prices in Germany are typically higher than in other countries, and this should be factored into your budget.

car driving during sunset

 

Most popular apps with the best offers on vehicle rental in Germany

Sixt

Sixt is a popular car rental agency in Germany with a reputation for quality service. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to vans and luxury cars. Sixt also has numerous locations throughout major German cities, making finding a branch near you easy.

Sixt typically offers good deals on car rental, and they often have frequent sales and promotions on their website. They also have a mobile app that makes it easy to rent a car on the go, making them one of the best apps for renting a car in Germany.

Hertz

Hertz is one of the largest and most well-known car rental companies globally. They have a huge presence in Germany, with locations in all major cities. Hertz is an excellent option if you're looking for a rental car in Germany.

When renting a car from Hertz in Germany, there are a few things to consider. First, Hertz offers a discount for online bookings. Additionally, they provide discounts for longer rentals, so ask about these when you're inquiring about rates. You can check the latest offers by clicking on 'Special offers' on the home page.

One downside is that Hertz does not rent cars to drivers under 21. If you're a young traveler looking to rent a car in Germany, Hertz may not be the best option.

Tip

Sign up for the Gold Plus Rewards to redeem points on free rental days, upgrades, and other benefits.

 

Auto Europe

Auto Europe is one of Germany's largest car rental companies, with over 60 years of experience renting cars to tourists and business travelers. They have a wide selection of vehicles available, from economy to luxury models, and offer unbeatable rates.

The company offers excellent customer service, with daily roadside assistance and various car rental deals and discounts. You can reach Auto Europe customer service at +49 89 412 07 295.

Europcar

You can rent a car from Europcar through their website or mobile app. You can also rent a car from Europcar at the airport.

Europcar also offers a variety of vehicles to rent, including luxury cars and vans. Europcar also has a loyalty program called "Privilege Club," where you can earn points towards free rentals and other loyalty benefits.

Kayak

Renting a car with Kayak is simple and easy! Just enter your dates and location, and we'll show you all the available rental cars in your area. You can even filter your results by price, pick-up location, type, and more to help you find the best deal for your trip.

When renting a car with Kayak in Germany, consider using a credit card with rental car insurance coverage. This will help protect you in case of any damage or loss. Additionally, check if you need insurance coverage for the rental car, as it is usually not included in the rental price.

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, rent a car in Germany with Kayak and enjoy stress-free trips!

 

Tips for renting a car in Germany

When renting a car in Germany, it's also essential to keep in mind a few tips that can help make your experience go more smoothly.

First, be sure to have all of your documents in order before pick up. This includes your driver's license, passport, and IDP.

Second, it's always good to use maps when getting a car in Germany. This will help you avoid getting lost on the country's winding roads.

Third, check online reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations. You'll also want to know about any additional fees associated with renting a car in Germany, such as insurance costs or tolls.

Finally, make sure you're familiar with German traffic laws and speed limits before hitting the road. These are different from what you may be used to and could result in costly fines if you're not careful.

With all of the requirements and considerations when renting a vehicle in Germany, it can sometimes seem like a daunting task. Following these tips can help you find the best deals on rental in Germany and make your trip a success. With some planning and research, you'll be ready to explore all that this fascinating country offers!

Ready to hit the road?

Well then, get ready for an epic adventure! Whether you're heading to bustling cities like Berlin and Munich or planning a day trip out into the German countryside, many amazing sights are just waiting to be explored. Enjoy your time in Germany and rent a car with confidence!

Do you want to know the best places to travel to in Germany?

Check out our Toursim in Germany page for more information!

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