Every year, a wave of NRIs and foreign tourists come to India to explore the country, attend weddings that last a couple of weeks, or take business trips that double up as a vacation.
And while the excitement is real, what trips up most folks is figuring out how to book a car for rent in India. Luckily, with today’s rental apps and long-term car plans, getting the perfect set of wheels has never been easier.
Since you’re already doing your homework (a smart move indeed), here are some pointers on how to book car on rent in India, what kind of vehicles people prefer, and everything in between.
Let’s start with the big decision: do you want to drive yourself or sit back and let a pro handle the traffic?
If you’re a confident driver who loves road trips and detours, a self-drive rental gives you full freedom. Apps like Revv make it super easy to rent cars by the hour, day, or month. You can pick them up at airports or have them delivered straight to your hotel.
But Indian roads can be… let’s say, adventurous. Think wandering cows, unexpected potholes, and drivers with creative lane choices. If that sounds stressful, a chauffeur-driven car is your best friend. Companies like Avis and Savaari offer trained, English-speaking drivers who know every shortcut, toll route, and scenic stop.
Pro tip: For long intercity trips — like Delhi to Jaipur or Kochi to Munnar — go chauffeur-driven. You’ll save energy and get insider travel tips from your driver.
If traveling with the fam or a full suitcase squad, SUVs and MPVs like the Toyota Innova Crysta or Mahindra XUV are a smart choice. They are spacious, comfy, and built for Indian roads. If it’s a twosome or small crew, then the compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Tata Nexon, or Kia Sonet tick all the boxes in your checklist. When exploring a bustling metropolis like Mumbai, Bangalore, or Chennai, hatchbacks like the Maruti Swift or Hyundai i10 make zipping through traffic and squeezing into tiny parking spots a breeze. And if you’re out to impress (think weddings, business events, or just pure flex), roll out in a luxury sedan like the Camry, Mercedes E-Class, or BMW 3 Series.
Quick rule:
City travel = hatchback.
Road trips = SUV/MPV.
Hill stations = 4WD or driver with mountain experience.
Also Read: Top 10 Indian Tourist Spots Popular Among International Globetrotters
Absolutely, yes. And honestly, that’s the best way to go.
Every major car rental company now offers app and website booking. You can browse real-time availability, compare prices, add extras, and pay online — all in minutes.
When figuring out how to book car on rent in India, always read the fine print: fuel policy (full-to-full is best), kilometre limits, and cancellation rules.
Yes, and they’re super popular now.
If you’re an NRI visiting for a few months or an expat working remotely, long term car rental in India is awesome for you. It’s pretty much a car subscription where you pay a monthly fee and get a car without the headache of owning one.
Companies like Revv totally get what customers have in mind and offer flexible long-term plans with insurance, maintenance, and doorstep delivery (yep, your ride shows up right where you are!).
In fact, if you’re wondering how to rent car with Revv, it’s honestly easy-peasy. Sign up, pick your car and duration, verify documents, pay online, and they deliver your car right to your hotel or accommodation. No wasting precious time at dealerships, no messy paperwork. It’s a pretty smooth and awesome start to your trip.
And long term rental is a money saver for long trips or extended stays. Long term car rental in India saves money compared to daily rates and gives you your own reliable ride for as long as you need.
To drive legally and smoothly in India, these docs are a lifesaver! Your passport and visa (proof of valid stay), your home country driving license (valid and preferably in English) your International Driving Permit or IDP (highly recommended for self-drive rentals), and your credit card for the refundable security deposit.
If you’re hiring a driver, your ID is still required for booking, but you won’t need the driving documents. Most companies rent to drivers aged 21+, though some luxury cars require 25+.
Car rentals in India are pocket-friendly and usually include the following.
Base rental fee: Varies by model and duration.
Fuel: Some rentals include fuel, most follow full-to-full policy.
Kilometre limits: Some plans cap daily driving; choose unlimited km for long trips.
Driver charges: Usually per day if chauffeur-driven.
Insurance: Always review your damage liability — it’s usually a fixed maximum amount.
Tolls and taxes: Pay-as-you-go during the journey.
Tipping your driver is optional but appreciated — around ₹200–₹500 per day is polite.
Walk around and take photos of any existing scratches or dents, check tyres, headlights, and wipers, test AC, brakes, and Bluetooth, ensure the RC (registration), insurance papers, and emergency kit are inside, and ask about roadside assistance numbers in case of breakdowns.
Since you’ll be booking online, here’s a basic guide (although instructions vary from company to company).
Once you get the hang of how to book a car for rent, it becomes second nature — quick, easy, and flexible.
Also Read: Temples Praised for Their Unique Architecture in India
India is raw, unpredictable, and magical, with ‘wow’ moments aplenty. The neon-lit cities, the sleepy villages, the roadside chai stalls, and the historic monuments – they make for an unforgettable safar (journey) that you’ll be talking about for years!
And the right car rental makes all the difference. Go for something comfy, reliable, and a solid AC – because Indian summers don’t play around.
So, plan smart, book early, and hit the road with confidence. You will be discovering one of the most colorful countries on Earth.
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