iDrive FAQ

How old do I need to be to hire a vehicle?

You must be between 21 and 70 years of age to hire a car from iDrive

How long do I need to have been driving?

We can only hire a car out to drivers who have held a full UK driving license for at least 12 months. For non-UK driving license, you must have held a full license for at least 24 month and the license must be valid for use in the UK.

I have driving convictions - can I still hire a car?

iDrive can usually provide a car, as long as you have less than two convictions. However, any of the following offence codes means we will have to refuse car hire: Theft or unauthorised taking; Drink or drugs; Dangerous driving; Driving whilst disqualified. If you have been disqualified from driving within the past 24 months, you will be unable to hire a car.

I have had an accident - can I still hire a car from iDrive?

We can hire a car out, as long as you haven't been involved in more than two at-fault accidents within the last 3 years.

I have had motor insurance refused - can I still hire a car from you?

No, iDrive are not permitted to hire cars to drivers who have been refused car insurance or who have had their insurance cancelled.

Is mileage restricted on your cars?

We do not restrict the mileage, it is unlimited.

Can I take the car abroad?

iDrive cars must remain within the UK. We do not hire out cars for use abroad.

Can I add an additional driver?

Yes, we do permit additional drivers, as long as they meet the age criteria and do not have any accident history or disqualifications/convictions that will exclude them. An additional driver will usually cost £15+VAT per day, per driver.

Do I have to pay for the fuel in the car?

Yes, we expect the car to be returned to us with the same level of fuels as when it was collected from us. If the fuel level differs, you will be charge for re-fuelling it. Cost will depend on daily petrol/diesel prices, plus a re-fuelling charge.

Can you deliver the car to me at home/work?

Yes, we can, by prior arrangement. This is usually subject to a £15 + VAT surcharge, for addresses within a 5-mile radius of our premises (BH17 0RA)

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, we do take a deposit upon booking of the car. For drivers aged 21-25, the deposit is £250. Drivers 25 or over pay a deposit of £100. The deposit is fully refundable as long as no additional charges have been incurred (for example returning the vehicle after the agreed time and date), and there has been no damage or fuel defecit.

What will the excess be if I have an accident?

For drivers aged 21-25, the excess is £500+VAT. Drivers 25 or over incur an excess of £250+VAT. In addition to these excesses, in the event of an at-fault claim or accident, the deposit held would not be refunded.

If I have an accident, which is not my fault, will I get my deposit or excess back?

In most cases you will. However, a disputed claim can take a considerable length of time to resolve. In some cases, if we are unable to claim for the damage and any additional losses, for example the other party gave false details, drove away from the accident or are uninsured, then you will lose your deposit and may have to pay the full value of the agreed insurance excess.

What payment methods do iDrive accept?

You can pay for car hire and deposit by any debit or credit card. We do not accept cash payments.

Can I tow another vehicle or a trailer with an iDrive car?

No, our vehicles are not fitted with a tow bar.

Does the car hire price include breakdown cover?

Breakdown cover is not included in car rental price.

What is your cancellation policy?

Changes or cancellations made at least 7 days prior to the agreed start of rental period will be refunded in full. Changes/cancellations made 1-7 days before hire was due to begin will be subject to a charge equalling 50% of the deposit paid (i.e. 50% of deposit will be refunded). Cancellations/changes of 24 hours notice or less will result in total loss of 100% of deposit paid, no deposit will be refunded.