Rent a car in Chiang Mai for your family and budget
There are lots of places to rent a car in Chiang Mai, from name-brand car rental companies to local services, to renting a car from a regular person. There are lots of options!
Get the best deal when renting a car in Chiang Mai
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Where to rent a car in Chiang Mai
Rent a car at the airport
The usual car rental companies operate out of Chiang Mai’s airport which are: National, Hertz, Avis, Sixt, and Budget Rent A Car. You can pre-book online or walk up to the counter in the airport lobby. The only stickler is that with these companies is you must pick up and drop off the car at the airport. This could result in extra costs if you are not leaving from the airport.
Renting from local operators
Here are some recommended local car rental operators. Rent from them and get some perks!
North Wheels has been operating for over 20 years within Chiang Mai. They offer a fleet of modern cars for your family from compact, SUV, and pickup size. Some perks they provide are delivery and pickup of cars at any of these locations without any extra charge: the airport, train station, bus station, hotel, or anywhere in downtown. In addition, for children under the age of one, child car seats are provided absolutely free! GPS can be provided for a small fee.
T Car Rent Chiang Mai is becoming a popular option because of its friendly service and low cost. This rental company only operates through facebook and deals largely with cash or local bank transactions. This makes it a better option for those living here or visiting long term. T Car Rent also offers free delivery and pickup within the city. Their fleet is newer and child car seats are included for free as well!
What do you need to rent a car in Chiang Mai?
In order to rent a car, you need to be 21 years or older, hold a valid driver’s license, and provide a valid credit card. If you have an international driver’s license, this is best. It is required by law and if you are pulled over, you will be asked for one. If you happen to have a Thai driver’s license then you are fine.
This is Thailand (T.I.T.), so while an international driver’s license is not required to rent a car, it is required to drive one! Getting pulled over is a rare occurrence and the fine is about 1,000 baht.
Along with your license, at the car rental counter you will also have to present your passport and credit card. A photocopy will be taken of both your passport and license.
It is not normal for the company to keep the hard copy, so if they try to, remind them a copy is fine.
Should you purchase car insurance?
Absolutely! C.Y.A. and purchase that insurance! Accident rates are awfully high here and as an unfamiliar driver, just err on the safe side. Inquire if the insurance includes accident insurance too. Most car rentals include some form of insurance, but confirm everything before you drive away.
