Rental terms and conditions

Car rental terms in Thailand

Car Smile Rent (Pattaya)

By booking and receiving a vehicle, the renter confirms that they have read and accepted these terms.

1. Driver requirements and documents

The minimum driver age is 18. The company may refuse a rental based on the vehicle class, driving experience or safety considerations.

At least one year of driving experience is required.

Original passport, original national driving licence for the appropriate category and a valid International Driving Permit (IDP), or a Thai driving licence, are required.

Copies and photographs of documents are not accepted. If the required documents are missing, the company may refuse to hand over the vehicle without refunding the prepayment.

2. Vehicle handover

The vehicle is handed over in roadworthy and clean condition. Its condition, fuel level and existing damage are recorded by inspection, photographs or video. By accepting the vehicle, the renter confirms its recorded condition.

3. Security deposit

The deposit amount depends on the vehicle class. It may be used to cover damage, fines, tolls and unpaid services.

The deposit is returned if the vehicle is returned on time, with no new damage, fines, debts or other breaches of these terms. Part of the deposit may be held for up to 30 days while traffic fines and toll-road charges are checked.

4. Payment

The rental is paid in full in advance unless otherwise agreed in writing. Payment is accepted in cash or by bank transfer; transfer and payment-system fees are paid by the renter. Unused rental days are non-refundable unless the agreement states otherwise.

5. Use of the vehicle

The vehicle is for personal use only and may be driven only by drivers named in the agreement. Commercial use, racing, off-road driving, towing and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are prohibited.

The renter must comply with Thai law and is responsible for all fines, tolls and expenses incurred during the rental.

6. Right to refuse rental

The company may refuse to hand over the vehicle if there are doubts about the documents, the customer behaves aggressively, appears intoxicated or attempts to breach these terms.

7. Final provisions

These terms and the rental agreement are governed by Thai law. The company may update the terms; the current version published on the official website applies to new bookings.

Class 1

All Car Smile Rent vehicles have Class 1 insurance. Cover for vehicle damage, theft, fire, flooding, third-party liability and medical expenses is subject to the policy for the selected vehicle. Limits and exclusions vary; ask us to confirm them before booking. A road tyre puncture is paid for separately. Under our rental terms, the excess when the renter is at fault or no responsible third party is identified equals the selected vehicle’s deposit. If another responsible party is identified and the insurer confirms the claim, no excess is charged to the renter. Minor repairs are agreed at their actual cost; the full deposit is not automatically retained.