Car Rental Guide for Expats Coming to Turkey: Easy, Affordable, and Safe Options
1. Documents Required for Car Rental
To rent a car in Turkey, a few essential documents are needed. As an expatriate coming from abroad, it’s important to have these documents prepared:
- Valid passport: Make sure your passport is valid when entering Turkey.
- Local driver’s license: You can rent a car with your valid driver’s license from your home country. However, in some cases, an international driver’s permit might be required.
- Age limit: The usual age limit for renting a car is 21, but drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
- Credit card: A credit card is necessary to complete the rental process. A deposit will be taken from your credit card.
2. Choosing a Car Rental Company
There are many local and international car rental companies in Turkey. Before renting, it's essential to research the vehicle options, prices, and service quality of these companies. Some well-known car rental companies include:
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
- Hertz
- Avis
- Sixt
- Garenta
In addition to these, local companies might offer competitive prices and flexible rental options.
3. Compare Prices and Book in Advance
Before arriving in Turkey, you can compare car rental prices through online platforms to find the best deals. Booking in advance can often secure better prices and ensure the availability of your desired vehicle. Popular car rental platforms include:
- Rentalcars.com
- Auto Europe
- Kayak
- Expedia
4. Rental Car Insurance and Coverage
Rental car insurance is crucial for a safe driving experience. Many car rental companies in Turkey include basic insurance in the rental price, but it’s essential to check for additional coverage options. Choosing the right insurance can protect you in case of an accident, theft, or damage.
5. Vehicle Pickup and Return Process
The process of picking up and returning a car is generally straightforward. There are many car rental locations at major airports and cities in Turkey. Car rental companies may offer vehicle delivery to a location close to where you're staying. Before returning the car, it’s a good idea to take note of the car’s condition to avoid any misunderstandings.
6. Traffic Rules and Driving Tips in Turkey
When driving in Turkey, it’s important to adhere to the traffic rules. Here are some basic rules to keep in mind:
- Speed limits: In urban areas, the speed limit is generally 50 km/h, while on intercity roads, it ranges between 90-120 km/h.
- Alcohol limit: It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol in Turkey. The legal limit is 0.50 grams per liter.
- Drive on the right: In Turkey, traffic moves on the right side of the road.
- Parking rules: Parking in restricted areas can result in fines.
7. Which Car Should You Choose in Turkey?
Depending on Turkey’s diverse climate and road conditions, choosing the right car can make your experience much smoother. For example, during the winter months, 4x4 vehicles are a good choice in regions with snow and ice. In the summer, more economical cars suited to the warm weather might be more practical.
8. Important Tips
- Book in advance: Especially during the summer months, car rentals can be in high demand. Early booking ensures better prices and guaranteed vehicle availability.
- Check for mileage limits: Some rental companies may impose a daily mileage limit. Opt for companies that offer unlimited mileage if you plan to travel long distances.
- Consider tolls and parking fees: Finding parking can be difficult in big cities, and some regions have toll fees.
