A Step-by-Step Guide to the Car Hire Process

Thinking about renting a car? Take a look at everything you need to know about the car hire process, so you can feel at ease with your rental experience at VroomVroomVroom.

Step 1: Research, research, research!

Understand the rental requirements

Before you decide to book your rental, check the rental requirements to ensure you are able to rent a vehicle. In most cases, you will need to be over 21 years of age and will need to hold a full and valid driver's licence. Once you know you are able to rent a vehicle, you can proceed.

Take a look at the driver's license requirements.

Check for additional charges and see what is included in the rental cost

When you rent a car, you will be quoted a specific price. Check the cost breakdown before you book your rental to see if you will be charged anything extra. This can include a young drivers surcharge, one way fees, location surcharges etc. Once you know this, you may want to change drivers, where you pick up your vehicle and where you end your journey.

Here is more information on what additional charges you may need to pay.

For a full list of price inclusions, take a look here.

For more information about before booking, click here.

Step 2: Book your car rental with VroomVroomVroom

Compare

From intermediate and economy sized cars to full sized vehicles and even vans and campervans, there will be something to suit your needs. Make sure to pick a vehicle that will work with your plans. If you are travelling with family, you may have a lot of luggage and prefer a full sized SUV that will accommodate you better. If you are inner-city driving, you may prefer an economy sized vehicle. You can compare car type, doors, seats, suppliers and transmission from cheapest to highest price. This way you can find the perfect car for you.

Choose

Once you have compared prices and vehicle types, it's time to choose your vehicle. It is essential to keep in mind that when you book your vehicle, the car rental company cannot guarantee that you will receive the exact car model pictured on the website, however, you will most definitely receive a car from the same 'class'.

Book

After you have understood the car rental requirements, and have compared and chosen your vehicle, it's time to book. It takes less than 2 minutes to book your vehicle with VroomVroomVroom.

Reasons to book a car hire with VroomVroomVroom.

Purchase rental vehicle excess insurance

Want to be covered if anything happens to the vehicle while it is in your possession? When you book your car, you can purchase rental vehicle excess insurance. By doing this, you will avoid having to pay the excess amount stated in your rental agreement in the case of damage to the car.

Learn more about car rental insurance.

For more information on how to book, click here.

Step 3: Pick up your vehicle from the depot

Arrive at the depot on time

Make sure that you arrive at the depot on time to collect your vehicle. If you do not turn up on time, the car rental company may assume that you will not be collecting your vehicle. If you are flying into an airport and then picking up your rental, you can input your flight information. By doing this, the rental company can see if you flight has been delayed and should be able to hold your car for you.

Extras

Do you require a GPS or child seat? You can add extras onto your booking at an additional cost.

Extras for your car rental.

Sign the car rental agreement

Carefully read through the rental agreement presented to you and ensure you understand the agreement. If you have any questions, make sure to ask them before you sign.

Check the vehicle for any damage

Document any damage that you can see on the vehicle's interior and exterior. We recommend taking photos and videos so that you have proof of damage. In the instance that you are charged for pre-existing damage, you can provide proof that you didn't do it.

Checking your car for damage.

Here is more information about picking up a rental car.

Step 4: Return your rental car

Make sure the fuel tank is full

Unless you have have pre-paid for fuel, you will need to return your vehicle with a full tank of fuel. If you don't, you will be charged the cost to fill it up, which is usually a higher rate compared to if you did it yourself.

Fuel policy information.

Return your vehicle on time

Car rental companies will allow a 29 minute grace period, however if you surpass this time you may be charged a extra full days rental. If you know you will be late or if you are wanting to keep your rental for longer, you will need to call the car rental company as soon as possible and see what you can sort out.

Out of hours vehicle return.

Here is more information about returning you rental car.

Rental Process in America Infographic

From booking your rental to returning it to the depot, you can save the infographic below and refer to it at any point you are unsure of the rental process in America.