Renting Cars in Foreign Countries

Renting a car in a foreign country is rarely a pleasant experience. In addition to the language barriers, you'll most likely be dealing with learning to drive on the opposite side of the road and negotiating insurance coverage. Further, proof of an International Driver's License is required to drive in foreign countries.

The best way to rent cars in foreign countries is to make the arrangements in advance. Just as you'll schedule your airline tickets, arrange to rent a car before you leave U.S. soil. In most cases, you'll be able to pre-pay in U.S. currency, which will save you an additional headache.

The most convenient way to arrange to rent a car in a foreign country is through an experienced travel agency. Let them know what type of car you'd like, how long you'll need it and whether or not you'll be crossing country boarders. They will know how to get you the best deal.

If you don't have a travel agency or if you want to do it yourself, consider pre-renting a car through one of the international companies, such as Hertz or Avis. You can rent your car in advance, though it might cost more than if you go through a travel agency.

Next, you'll have to apply for an International Driver's License, or International Driving Permit (IDL). Since most foreign countries do not recognize U.S. driver's licenses, you'll need one of these. Two U.S. organizations are authorized to issue IDL's: AAA (American Automobile Association) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Beware of Internet scams that advertise the sale of IDL's; if it isn't obtained from one of these two agencies, it isn't valid.

In order to obtain an IDL, you'll need two passport-size photographs as well as your current state driver's license. You must be eighteen years of age to apply.

Once you have made your reservation, keep your confirmation paperwork in an accessible location for travel. When you arrive in the foreign country, you'll have to present that information at the car rental agency with which your reservation has been made. You should also know that 800-number for the rental agency so that you can call if there are any problems.

Remember that renting a car in a foreign country isn't the same as renting one in the U.S. Most cars provided at agencies in foreign countries have a manual transmission, and very few come equipped with air conditioning. If you need a larger vehicle - such as an SUV - make sure that you stress that point to your travel agency or to the rental agency.

If, for whatever reason, you are unable to rent your car until you arrive in a foreign country, don't panic. Most major international airports have car rental agencies located nearby. You can take a shuttle provided by the airport to the rental agency location, and as long as you have proof of your IDL, you shouldn't have a problem.