Faq

WHAT DO I NEED TO HIRE A VEHICLE?

We require the following documents at the time of hire:

1. Driver’s Licence
   • Ages 21–24: A current full driver’s licence held for at least 24 months (subject to endorsements/restrictions).
   • Ages 25+: A current full driver’s licence held for at least 12 months (longer for MVPs and minibuses; subject to endorsements/restrictions).

We’ll ask what the vehicle will be used for—this is an insurance requirement.

• Non-EU Licence Holders: You may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for translation. We advise checking your eligibility to drive in the UK, especially if you’ve been a resident for over 12 months. Visit GOV.UK for guidance.

UK DRIVING LICENCE HOLDERS: IMPORTANT INFORMATION

You must provide either your photocard licence or old paper-style licence.

Since 8 June 2015, the paper counterpart has been abolished. Driving records are now stored digitally by the DVLA.

✅ You must obtain a DVLA access code to allow us to check your record:

• Visit: www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence (free)
• Or call: 0300 083 0013 (Mon–Fri 8am–7pm, Sat 8am–2pm; choose “Online Application” option).

➡️ The access code is case-sensitive, valid for 21 days, and single-use.

We recommend printing the driver summary (a link is provided below your code) and bringing it with you to speed up collection.

⚠️ Please ensure this is completed before weekends, as the DVLA has been unavailable on some weekends.

Note: This change doesn’t affect Northern Ireland licences—you still need both the plastic photocard and paper counterpart.

1. Two Proofs of Address
   Provide two recent documents (within the past 6–8 weeks) confirming your current address, e.g.:

• Bank or credit card statements
• Utility bills (online or printed, showing address and date)

✅ Online utility bills (not bank statements) may be emailed from your phone at the time of collection.
❌ Passports can’t be used as proof of address.

Out-of-area addresses may require higher deposits. Contact our Manchester or Leeds rental desks for clarification.

Moving house? Bring proof of your new address too.

1. Additional Photo ID (for paper licences)
   If you hold a non-photocard licence, you must provide an additional photographic ID (e.g. passport).

🚩 The above requirements apply to all additional drivers—each must present documents in person.

NON-UK RESIDENTS / VISITORS: READ CAREFULLY

Please contact us before collecting the car. Non-UK residents must present:
✅ Driving licence
✅ Passport
✅ International Driving Permit (if applicable)
✅ Two official proofs of current permanent home address (issued within 4 weeks, matching licence address)
✅ Proof of UK accommodation (e.g. hotel booking or family member’s ID and address, presented in person with the hirer)
✅ Evidence of return travel (e.g. flight confirmation)

All payments must be made using the hirer’s credit card.

1. Credit/Debit Card
   Hire charges and deposits are payable by the hirer’s own credit/debit card at collection (credit card only in some cases).

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE, AND HOW LONG MUST I HAVE HELD MY LICENCE?

➡️ Check DVLA website for any licence category changes.

WHAT VEHICLES CAN I DRIVE WITH A STANDARD CAR LICENCE?

• Passed test after 1 Jan 1997 (Category B): Drive vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes GVW or max 9 seats (driver + 8 passengers).
• Passed before 1 Jan 1997: Usually includes Category C1 (up to 7.5 tonnes GVW). Check your licence or verify at gov.uk/view-driving-licence.

✅ Non-UK licence holders usually fall under Category B—check details at gov.uk/driving-nongb-licence.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

• Prices subject to VAT at current rate
• Rates cover vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes GVW
• Cars: up to 1,000 miles per week included (max 1,500 miles; excess: 20p/mile up to 2,000 miles, then 40p/mile)
• Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes: DVSA tachograph and drivers' hours apply
• Comprehensive insurance (insurance excess applies; can be reduced with Excess Damage Waiver)

FUEL POLICY

Vehicles are provided with a full tank. We recommend returning full; otherwise, fuel will be charged at displayed rates.
⚠️ Please confirm fuel type before leaving.

CAN I USE THE VEHICLE FOR WASTE REMOVAL?

Check if your local recycling centre requires registration/permit for van use prior to hire. Rules vary for personal vs. trade waste.

CAN I TAKE THE VEHICLE OUTSIDE THE UK?

❌ Vehicles are for UK mainland use only.

DEPOSITS & INSURANCE EXCESS

Deposits and insurance excess vary by vehicle and driver age:

**7.5T–18T vehicles incur £50/day HGV levy + higher excess

✅ EDW reduces excess/deposit for 1 claim only; not valid for theft/damage of tyres, wheels, keys, audio, or fuel contamination. Not available for non-UK licence holders.

WINDSCREEN COVER

Windscreen damage is the hirer’s responsibility unless EDW is purchased.

ADDITIONAL DRIVERS

Yes—£12.50 + VAT per driver (per week or part week). Max 4 drivers. Each must attend in person with full documents. Adding drivers after hire requires fresh paperwork and attendance.

PAYMENT METHODS

✅ Credit/Debit Card: Required for hire charges, deposits, and any post-hire charges (fines, penalties, etc.).
✅ Cash: Only for hire charges/extensions (with prior agreement). Deposits must be on card.
✅ Cheque: By prior agreement only—please call.

LATE RETURNS & EXTENSIONS

Contact us immediately. Additional charges apply; insurance cover must be arranged. Charges payable before current rental period ends.

BREAKDOWNS

All vehicles include nationwide breakdown cover. Details provided with hire documents—please carry them with you.

VEHICLE RETURN

Return to our fuel pumps where staff will inspect and issue a receipt for vehicle condition and fuel. We recommend returning during office hours to confirm fuel/damage—vehicles returned outside hours cannot be checked until the next business day, and discrepancies cannot be disputed.