Electric car wing mirror.
© E-City Chauffeur Ltd / Patrice Mestari
Where can you find car hire in Scotland?
Across Scotland you'll find various car hire companies and businesses, from all the big names to smaller, local companies. Most are in our major cities or at airports, but others are scattered up and down the country, even on some of our most remote islands including Orkney and Shetland.
You can also hire a car for a one-way trip, meaning you can start your holiday in one destination and finish in another without having to return the vehicle to the original destination.
How much does car rental in Scotland cost?
The cost of hiring a car in Scotland will depend on a few factors - driver age, vehicle being hired, and length of time the hire is for. Usually, the longer you hire a car for, the cheaper the daily rate. Also the longer in advance you make the booking, the cheaper it is.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Scotland?
The age limit for renting a car in Scotland is determined by the individual car hire companies/insurance providers and can vary from company to company.
Please contact your chosen hire company directly for more information about this.
What do you need for a vehicle hire in Scotland?
To rent a car in Scotland, you will need to have held a full, valid driver's license for at least 12 months. Some hire companies will ask for proof of identity, such as a passport, and a credit card.
You can legally drive in the UK for up to 12 months if you have a current driver's license from your home country. Please check ahead with your chosen hire company for more information.
Un véhicule électrique dans les Highlands
© E-City Chauffeur Ltd / Patrice Mestari
How long can you hire a car for in Scotland?
Most car hire companies offer daily and weekly rental time periods. Some also offer up to 28 days or even longer, but it's best to check directly with individual hire businesses.
Do you have to book ahead for car rental in Scotland?
Yes, it is preferable to book ahead when hiring a car, especially during peak seasons.
What type of vehicles can you hire?
A range of vehicles and modes of transport are available to hire across Scotland. A variety of car types and sizes, including electric cars, can be hired, as well as bikes, eBikes, motorhomes, caravans, and campervans.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Get up-to-date traffic information from Traffic Scotland
Find a petrol station
Find an LPG station
Find a charge point for electric vehicles
Safety tips for driving on the left side of the road
A couple explore the forest and hillside around Cairn O'Mount
© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale
BEING RESPONSIBLE WHEN YOU TRAVEL
If you do decide to hire a vehicle for travelling around Scotland, it's important to remember to consider the environment and make sustainable, eco-friendly choices. Green Travel is a great way of getting around whilst being a responsible traveller. This means using options such as electric cars, bikes and even eBikes.
When you're out and about it is key to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and respect any landscapes, local communities and wildlife you may come across.
Find out more about Responsible Tourism in Scotland
