Rental relocation FAQ: 15 things every first-timer asks
Rapid answers to the most common questions about rental relocations — licence, insurance, damage, deadlines, cancellations.
The most-asked questions, answered fast.
Licensing
Any full home-country licence is usually fine. IDP recommended for non-English licences.
Age
21 or 25 minimum, depending on company and country.
Payment
Credit card at pickup for the bond. Debit rarely accepted.
Insurance
Basic is included. Upgrade for peace of mind on long trips.
Cancellations
Free before company confirmation. Company-dependent after.
Damage
Bond covers minor stuff, insurance covers major stuff, excess sits between the two.
Fuel
Per listing. Read the inclusions.
Kilometres
Free allowance + per-km rate above it. Add 15% buffer.
Deadline slippage
Contact the company early — most will extend for a small fee.
Extending mid-trip
Possible if the fleet planner agrees. Not guaranteed.
Vehicle swaps
Rare, but possible on multi-leg trips through the same brand.
Pets
Depends on company. Ask before booking.
Cross-border
Needs written authority.
Border crossings
Carry the rental agreement.
Support
The rental company handles the vehicle. Tote Car handles the booking.
Frequently asked questions
How old do I need to be for a rental relocation?
Most companies require drivers to be at least 21, and some 25. A young-driver surcharge sometimes applies under 25 but is often waived on relocations.
What licence do I need?
A full licence from your home country, valid for the vehicle class. Most countries also require an International Driving Permit alongside a non-English licence.
What if I damage the vehicle?
Standard insurance covers major damage above the excess. Below the excess, you pay out of pocket. Excess reduction upgrades cap or eliminate this.
Can I cancel a relocation booking?
Yes, until the rental company confirms. After confirmation, cancellation policies vary — check the listing.
What if I miss the deadline?
Late fees kick in per hour or per day. Contact the rental company as early as you can if you know you'll be late.
Keep reading
A behind-the-scenes explanation of the Tote Car marketplace — how listings appear, how bookings clear, and what the flat fee covers.
Family-friendly relocation planning — car seats, kid-friendly routes, and choosing the right vehicle size.
A frank look at doing rental relocations solo — safety, cost per traveller, loneliness, and border-crossing tips.