Rental Car Checklist: What to Check at Pickup and Return

Most problems with rental cars come from something nobody noticed at the start: a small scratch, a low tyre, a missing spare. A few minutes of checking when you collect the car, and again when you return it, protect you and make the whole rental smoother.

At pickup: the documents

• Your original ID or iqama and driving licence.
• Check that the contract shows the right car, dates, return branch and period.
• Ask how many kilometres are included if the contract has a limit, and what happens if you go over.

At pickup: around the car

1. Walk around the car with the staff member and look at every panel, bumper and wheel.
2. Take photos and a short video of all four sides, the roof and the windscreen, with the date visible on your phone.
3. Check the windscreen for chips and cracks.
4. Look at the tyres: tread, pressure and any cuts. Make sure the spare tyre and jack are in the boot.
5. Make sure every mark is written down on the contract before you drive away.

At pickup: inside the car

• Note the fuel level and the mileage on the dashboard.
• Start the engine and check that no warning lights stay on.
• Test the air conditioning, lights, indicators, wipers and horn.
• Adjust the seat and mirrors before moving, not while driving.
• Check that child seats, if you asked for them, are fitted correctly.

During the rental

• Keep the contract and the branch number with you.
• If a warning light comes on, stop safely and call the branch.
• In an accident, follow the steps in accident or traffic fine in a rental car.

At return

1. Refuel to the same level you received, and keep the receipt.
2. Remove all your belongings: check the glovebox, door pockets, under the seats and the boot.
3. Return on time; late returns can add charges under the contract.
4. Inspect the car again with the staff member and take a final set of photos.
5. Keep your copy of the return record until your deposit or payment is fully settled.

Frequently asked questions

What if I find damage after I have left the branch?

Take photos straight away and call the branch before you drive further, so it is recorded as existing damage.

Do I need to wash the car before returning it?

Normal dust is fine. A car returned very dirty inside, especially after a desert trip, may need cleaning under the contract.

What should I do with traffic fines?

Fines issued during the rental belong to the renter. Read what to do about a traffic fine.