When you pick up a hire car you’ll need to make sure you have your driving licence and deposit. For best practice, you should always take your booking confirmation.

Most companies require a credit card for deposit purposes, so if you don’t own one, be sure to check with the company that they accept other forms of payment such as debit card or cash.

Once this initial paperwork is done the agent will (if he hasn’t done so already) bring the car round to the front for you. This is where it pays to be extremely vigilant. You need to walk around the car – inside and out – to inspect for any damage from the smallest scratch! Anything you find should be noted on the paperwork BEFORE you drive away. We suggest that you take photos and this can be used in your defence should they try and bill you for damages.