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If you’re planning to rent a car for the very first time, there are some things you need to take care of in advance. Here’s a checklist of what you need to do before hitting the road. By making sure you have everything ready, you’ll avoid any surprises and can enjoy your rental car experience without any stress. So, what do you need to do? Let’s get started!

Have a valid driver's license

Yes, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in the Philippines. If you don’t have one, you’ll 1st need to apply for a student’s permit before you’re able to get a driver’s license. Although, if you’re planning on getting a car rental with a driver then a valid driver’s license isn’t required.

Choose a reputable car rental company

Make sure to do some research on the car rental companies available here in Metro Manila. Look for customer reviews and what type of vehicles they offer. Also, inquire about their insurance coverage in case something happens during the rental period.

Check what's included in the rental fee

Find out what’s included in the rental fee- are taxes and fees already included? How about gas and mileage? Will there be additional charges if you go over the allotted mileage limit? It’s best to ask these questions beforehand to avoid any extra fees during or after your car rental period.

Check what forms of payment they accept

Ask what forms of payment the car rental company accepts- cash, credit card, or bank transfers? If they do accept credit cards, what are the fees associated with it? It’s also good to inquire about their cancellation and refund policies in case you need to make any changes to your reservation.

Check for insurance coverage

Make sure that the car rental company offers insurance coverage for their vehicles. In addition, check if your personal car insurance also covers rentals. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to accidents or damage during your rental period.

Have a copy of your itinerary ready

Provide the car rental company with a copy of your itinerary or planned route during the rental period. This will give them an idea of where you’ll be driving the car and what type of vehicle may be suitable for your needs.

Check for any additional rental equipment

Find out if the car rental company offers any additional rental equipment, such as GPS or child safety seats. These may come at an extra cost, so make sure to inquire beforehand if they’re necessary for your trip.

Check and read through the terms and agreement

Before signing any rental agreement or contract, make sure to thoroughly read and understand all the terms and conditions. This will ensure that you’re aware of what is expected during the rental period and what actions may result in fees or penalties.

By following this car rental checklist, you’ll be prepared for a smooth and stress-free car rental experience. Happy driving!