Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Booking & Requirements
1. Q: What are the requirements to rent a car? A: To rent a vehicle from us, all drivers must be at least 25 years of age, possess a valid driver’s license held for at least one year, and present a major credit card in the primary renter’s name.
2. Q: Do I need an international driver’s license? A: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required only if your home country’s driver’s license is not in English. Otherwise, your valid license in English is sufficient.
3. Q: Can my spouse or a friend drive the rental car? A: Yes, but only if they are officially registered as an “Additional Driver” on your rental agreement at the time of pick-up and meet all driver requirements. An additional driver fee may apply.
4. Q: Do you require a security deposit? A: Yes. A security deposit is pre-authorized on your credit card. This amount is held to cover potential costs like damage, fuel charges, or traffic fines and is released after the vehicle is returned and inspected.
5. Q: Do you offer child car seats? A: Yes, we offer child safety seats for an additional daily fee. Please request them when booking to ensure availability.
Vehicle & Policies
6. Q: Are your cars automatic or manual? A: The vast majority of our fleet is equipped with an automatic transmission for your convenience.
7. Q: Do all your cars have air conditioning? A: Yes, all vehicles in our fleet are equipped with air conditioning for your comfort in our tropical climate.
8. Q: What is your fuel policy? A: We operate on a “Full-to-Full” policy. Your vehicle comes with a full tank of gas, and you must return it full to avoid refueling charges.
9. Q: What happens if I get a flat tire or crack the windshield? A: Our optional Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) does not cover damage to tires, wheels, or glass (including windshields). The renter is fully responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing these items.
10. Q: What should I do if I lose the car keys? A: Contact us immediately. Please be aware that lost keys are not covered by CDW, and you will be responsible for the full cost of replacement and any associated services.
11. Q: What is your cancellation policy? A: Our policy is tiered based on notice: a full refund (less admin fee) for cancellations >72 hours out; a partial refund for 48-72 hours’ notice; and no refund for <48 hours’ notice or no-shows.
12. Q: Can I extend my rental once I have the car? A: Yes, extensions are possible subject to vehicle availability. Please contact our office at least 24 hours before your original return time to arrange it.
13. Q: What is included in my rental rate? A: The rate includes the vehicle rental only. It does not include mandatory taxes (like the 12% TCI Vehicle Hire Stamp Duty), fuel, or optional extras.
14. Q: What happens if I get a parking ticket? A: You are responsible for all fines. If a fine is sent to our office, we will charge your credit card for the fine amount plus an administrative processing fee.
15. Q: Is there a fee for returning the car late? A: We offer a 30-minute grace period. After that, late returns are subject to hourly or additional full-day charges as specified in your Rental Agreement.
Road Safety & Local Driving Tips
16. Q: What side of the road do you drive on? A: We drive on the LEFT-HAND side of the road. This is the most important rule to remember!
17. Q: I’m not used to roundabouts. How do they work? A: They are very common here. The rule is simple: Yield to traffic already in the roundabout (coming from your right). Signal your intention to exit, and always approach with caution.
18. Q: What are the speed limits in Providenciales? A: Generally, the speed limit is 40 mph (64 km/h) on highways like Leeward Highway, and 20 mph (32 km/h) in residential areas, settlements, and school zones. Always watch for posted signs.
19. Q: What are the general road conditions like? A: Main roads are paved but can have potholes, especially after heavy rain. Many access roads to villas or remote beaches are unpaved gravel. Remember, our policy prohibits any off-road driving.
20. Q: Is it safe to drive at night? A: While the main tourist areas are generally safe, many roads outside the central Grace Bay area are not well-lit. We advise exercising extra caution, driving slower, and being aware of your surroundings and potential animals on the road when driving at night.
21. Q: What should I do if an animal is on the road? A: Please drive with care, especially in residential areas. It is common to see local dogs (“potcakes”) or cats on or near the road. Slow down and give them plenty of space.
22. Q: What’s the best way to handle parking? A: Parking is generally free at beaches, resorts, and shopping plazas. Please park only in designated spots. Avoid parking under coconut trees (falling coconuts can cause damage!) and never block local driveways.
23. Q: What about drinking and driving? A: The laws are strict and enforced. Do not drink and drive. A DUI will void all insurance coverage and lead to serious legal consequences.
General Advice & Logistics
24. Q: Where do I pick up my vehicle? A: We offer convenient pick-up at the Providenciales International Airport (PLS), where our representative will meet you in the arrivals area. We also offer delivery to most hotels and villas upon request.
25. Q: What happens if my flight is delayed? A: If you provide your flight number when booking, we will track your flight’s status and adjust your pick-up time. Your car will be held for you.
26. Q: Do I need GPS? Does Google Maps work? A: Yes, Google Maps and Waze work well on Providenciales. We recommend downloading an offline map of the island to your phone in case you are in an area with poor cell service.
27. Q: Where can I find gas stations? A: Gas stations are located along Leeward Highway and in other central areas. Most are open daily but may have limited hours on Sundays and public holidays. They all accept major credit cards.
28. Q: What if a dashboard warning light comes on? A: If a warning light appears, pull over safely as soon as possible and call us. Do not continue driving if the light is red or flashing, as this may indicate a serious issue requiring immediate attention.
29. Q: Any tips for keeping the car clean? A: We know you’ll be at the beach! Using towels on the seats and making an effort to brush off sand before getting in can help you avoid extra fees for excessive sand or wet seat cleaning.
30. Q: Is it safe to leave valuables in the car? A: We strongly advise against leaving valuables like passports, wallets, cameras, or phones in an unattended vehicle. Always lock your car and take your valuables with you.