Car rentals in India — a guide

Typical daily rates

Car rental costs in India vary by vehicle and location. For a chauffeur-driven, air-conditioned car on a daily package (8 hours / 80 km), expect roughly:

• Tata Indica: $17–$20 per day
• Honda City: $40–$45
• Toyota Camry: $60–$65
• Toyota Innova: $35–$40

Local taxi stands will often negotiate. A Tata Indica can sometimes drop to around $16 a day (fuel and insurance included) for residents.

How renting works in India

Unlike many Western countries, India doesn't have a widespread network of airport rental counters. Most visitors should arrange a rental in advance rather than assume they can walk up and drive away on arrival. The dominant model is chauffeur-driven — which tends to suit visitors who'd rather not deal with India's traffic themselves.

Chauffeur-driven vs. self-drive

Chauffeur-driven:

• No security deposit
• No traffic or parking worries
• Minimal paperwork

Self-drive:

• Security deposit of around $750–$3,000
• Deposit is forfeited if the car is damaged
• Insurance coverage is often limited

Self-drive renters must be at least 25 years old and hold a valid Indian or international driving licence. Indian licences must have been issued at least three years earlier.

Documents you'll need

A chauffeur-driven booking needs a valid credit card. Self-drive also requires photocopies of your driving licence, credit card, and passport (or other acceptable ID).

Booking tips

Book at least 24 hours ahead. Cancellations within six hours of pickup normally incur a full first-day charge.