Guides

First Time Renting a Self Drive Car? 12 Things to Know Before You Book

Published 17 February 2026 · 5 min read · RegalCarz Team

Renting a self drive car for the first time is easier than most people expect, but there are a handful of things worth knowing before you book so the day itself goes smoothly. From what to check during the pickup walkaround to how the deposit and fuel rules work, these twelve practical self drive car rental tips will help you avoid the small mistakes that catch out first-timers in Bangalore.

We put this list together from years of handing over keys at our Hoodi office. None of it is complicated — it just helps to know what to expect.

Before you book

1. Match the car to the trip, not the price alone

A nippy hatchback like the Renault Kwid or Tata Punch is perfect for city errands, while a family weekend suits the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga or Toyota Innova Crysta. Browse the full fleet and picture your actual journey — passengers, luggage, road type — before deciding.

2. Understand the 250 km daily limit

Every rental includes 250 kilometres per day. That is plenty for city use, but a long trip can exceed it, and extra kilometres are chargeable. Estimate your route in advance and ask us for the current per-km rate if you think you will go over.

3. Check your eligibility early

You need to be 21 or older with a valid Indian driving licence at least one year old. Confirm this before booking rather than discovering a problem at pickup. Our guide to the documents required to rent a self drive car spells out exactly what to carry.

4. Book with a little lead time

Cars get reserved, especially at weekends. Message us on WhatsApp or use the Book Now form a few days ahead to lock in your preferred car and dates. We are open every day from 7 AM to 9 PM.

At pickup

5. Do a proper walkaround

This is the single most important habit for any renter. Walk around the car with our staff, look at the bumpers, doors, wheels and windscreen, and note any existing marks together before you drive off. A careful inspection protects your deposit and removes any doubt later.

6. Confirm the fuel level

Fuel is full-to-full, so the car is handed over with a full tank and should be returned with one. Glance at the fuel gauge at pickup and make a mental note — you will be topping it up before you return.

7. Carry your original documents

Bring your original licence and Aadhaar or government photo ID. We verify originals at pickup, so phone photos will not do. The primary driver — the person who booked — must be present.

8. Know how the deposit works

There is a flat ₹1,000 security deposit, refundable within 24 to 48 hours of return, subject to deductions for damage, missing fuel or overdue charges. Have it ready via UPI, bank transfer or cash. For the finer points, see our explainer on the security deposit and fuel policy.

While you have the car

9. Adjust before you drive

Take two minutes to set the seat, mirrors and steering, and find the indicators, wipers and headlight controls. Every car is laid out slightly differently, and fumbling for the wipers in traffic is no fun.

10. Respect what is not allowed

Some things are off-limits in any rental: racing, off-roading, carrying commercial goods, subletting the car, smoking inside it, and driving under the influence. Damages not covered by insurance are the renter's responsibility, so drive sensibly and report anything odd promptly.

11. Plan outstation trips in advance

Heading beyond the city? Outstation travel is welcome with advance approval, and you cover tolls, interstate taxes and any fines. Mention your plan when booking so we can approve the trip and advise on kilometres.

When you return

12. Refuel and return on time

Fill the tank back to full before you hand the car back — any shortfall is deducted at the market rate plus a ₹100 service charge. Aim to return on schedule too: late returns are charged at ₹100 per hour for the first two hours, then the full daily rate applies. If you need longer, request an extension at least four hours before your return time and we will check availability.

A few extra pointers

Beyond the twelve tips, a couple of habits make life easier. Keep our number handy on the road so you can reach us quickly if anything comes up. Take a few photos of the car at pickup and return for your own peace of mind. And drive to the conditions — Bangalore traffic rewards patience far more than speed. If you are still deciding whether self drive is right for you at all, our comparison of self drive versus a chauffeur-driven car is a good next read.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the minimum rental?

The minimum is 24 hours, which counts as one full day. You can, of course, rent for longer.

What if I return the car a little early?

You are welcome to return early, though the rental is still charged for the booked period. It is always better to plan realistic timings than to rush.

Can I pay by card?

We accept UPI, bank transfer and cash. Have your preferred method ready for both the rental amount and the ₹1,000 deposit.

Where do I pick the car up?

From our office on ITPL Main Road, Hoodi, near Whitefield — convenient for east Bangalore and the tech parks around ITPL.

Your first self drive rental should feel like a small adventure, not a stress test. Do the walkaround, carry the right documents, keep an eye on the fuel gauge and the clock, and you will breeze through it. When you are ready, the RegalCarz team is happy to guide a first-timer through every step — just get in touch via the contact section.