Renting a car is often the most convenient way to travel with complete freedom, whether for vacation or business. When picking up the vehicle, it’s essential to pay attention to a few details to avoid issues, extra charges, or misunderstandings.

This guide will show you what to check before picking up a rental car, from the documents to present to the inspections to perform—each step is designed to ensure a smooth, transparent rental experience without unpleasant surprises.

Documents to bring with you

Before checking the car, it’s important to come prepared with all the required documents. Even a minor omission can delay the process or, in some cases, prevent you from picking up the vehicle.

Here’s what you should bring:

Valid driver’s license. It must be valid and comply with local regulations, especially if you're renting abroad. In some countries, an international driving permit is mandatory. Check in advance to avoid issues.
Credit card in the driver’s name. Almost all rental companies require a physical credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Prepaid or debit cards are usually not accepted. At Revirent24, you can pay even without a credit card.
Identity document and booking confirmation. Bring a valid ID (ID card or passport) and a copy of your booking voucher received via email. If you booked online, a digital version may suffice, but having a printout is always safer.

A quick check of these items before going to the rental desk can save you from unnecessary queues, verification problems, and potential refusals to release the vehicle.

Exterior vehicle inspection

Once the paperwork is completed, it’s crucial to carry out a thorough visual inspection of the car before driving off. This step is often overlooked but can help avoid disputes and unjustified charges upon return.

Here are the main things to check:

Bodywork and bumpers. Check all sides of the car, including the hood, bumpers, and roof. Look for scratches, dents, impact marks, or paint imperfections.
Immediately report anything not listed in the contract or delivery report.
Lights, mirrors, and windows. Ensure that headlights, tail lights, and indicators are intact. Also check the side mirrors and glass (windshield, windows, rear window) for cracks or chips.
Tyres and rims. Make sure the tyres are in good condition, without obvious cuts or excessive wear. Also inspect the rims for deep scratches or curb damage.
Take photos and videos. To protect yourself in case of disputes, it’s good practice to take detailed photos of the car from multiple angles, including the license plate, sides, bumpers, hood, and roof.
A short panoramic video can further help document the car’s condition at pickup.

Don’t rush this step—just a few minutes of attention can save you from unpleasant surprises or unjustified charges at the end of the rental.

Interior vehicle inspection

After checking the exterior, it’s advisable to inspect the car’s interior. Here too, it’s important not to overlook details, as any damages or malfunctions noticed too late might be attributed to you upon return.

Here’s what to check before setting off:

1.Interior condition

Take a general look at the cabin:

Seats: check for noticeable stains, tears, or burns.
Dashboard and trim: ensure they are clean and undamaged.
Trunk: make sure it’s empty, clean, and in good condition.

If you notice any damage or unacceptable conditions, report it immediately to the rental staff and ask for it to be recorded in the contract.

2.Basic functions

Start the engine and check that everything works correctly:

Air conditioning or climate control
Interior and exterior lights
Radio or multimedia system
Electric windows and mirror adjustment

Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the main controls. This will help you drive safely and without distractions.

3.Unusual smells or warning lights

A strong or strange smell may indicate technical issues or insufficient cleaning.
Likewise, if dashboard warning lights are on (engine, tyre pressure, oil, etc.), don’t start driving without asking for clarification.

Even if you're in a hurry, don’t skip this check, as it’s essential for a smooth and comfortable trip.

Fuel level and mileage

Another key aspect to check before departure is the fuel level and recorded mileage. These two elements are often the source of misunderstandings or extra charges upon return, so pay close attention from the start.

1.Check the fuel level

Ensure that the fuel level matches what’s stated in the contract. The most common policies are:

Full/Full: the car is delivered with a full tank and must be returned full.
Full/Empty or other variations: less common but may apply with an extra fee.

If the tank is not full as expected, report it immediately and ask for it to be noted. Take a photo of the dashboard clearly showing the fuel level.

2.Check initial mileage

Many rentals have a mileage limit, such as 100 km per day, while others, like Revirent24, offer unlimited mileage.

Before you leave:

Check and note the kilometers on the dashboard.
Compare them with what’s written in the contract.
Take a photo for added proof.

If there are discrepancies, notify the rental staff immediately to avoid disputes at the end of the rental period.

A careful check of fuel and mileage protects you and helps you plan your trip better.

Insurance and excess

One of the most sensitive aspects of car rental concerns insurance coverage and the excess applied in case of damage or accidents.

Before picking up the vehicle, it’s important to know what is actually covered by the included insurance and what costs you might face in case of issues. Be careful, as some coverage doesn’t eliminate responsibility entirely but limits it up to a certain amount.

The excess is the maximum amount you might have to pay out of pocket in case of damage, even if insured.

Check in the contract:

The exact excess amount
Whether it applies to damage, theft, or both
Any options to reduce or eliminate it

An amount proportional to the excess is often blocked on your credit card as a deposit. Check:

How much it is
How many days it remains blocked
How long it takes to be released after return

Taking a few minutes to carefully read the insurance conditions can make a big difference if something unexpected happens. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification before signing.

Mandatory equipment and safety

When picking up a rental car, make sure the vehicle includes all legally required equipment and essential safety tools. These items not only ensure your safety but may also be required by authorities during road checks.

Spare wheel or repair kit. Check whether the car has an inflatable spare wheel or a tyre repair kit. If there is no spare, make sure the kit is present and functional.
Warning triangle and reflective vest. The warning triangle is mandatory to signal your vehicle in case of sudden stops or accidents.
Ensure it’s present along with a reflective vest, which must be worn when exiting the vehicle in emergencies, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions.
Snow chains or winter tyres. If you’re in areas or seasons where they’re mandatory, make sure the car is equipped with snow chains or winter tyres. This is particularly important in mountainous or snowy regions.

Checking for this equipment lets you travel safely and comply with the law, avoiding fines or difficulties during the trip.

Questions to ask staff and useful contacts

Before leaving the rental location, it’s essential to clarify any doubts with the rental company staff. Asking the right questions can save you stress and trouble during your trip.

Ask what steps to take if you have an accident or notice damage during the rental. Knowing who to contact, which numbers to call, and what documents to fill out will help you handle the situation more confidently.
Check if roadside assistance is included and, if so, write down the phone number to call in case of breakdowns or emergencies. It’s important to know who to contact without wasting time in difficult situations.
Also ask about any tolerances or penalties for returning the vehicle late or dropping it off at a different location than originally booked.

Picking up a rental car without issues is possible—just follow a few simple but essential tips.

Taking a few extra minutes at pickup can help you avoid unpleasant problems during or at the end of your rental.

If you’re looking for a reliable, transparent, and convenient rental service, with Revirent24 your trip begins at pickup—with complete peace of mind.