Frequently Asked Questions

Driving documents in Thailand

For rental and lawful driving, carry the original national driving licence for the correct vehicle category together with a valid International Driving Permit issued by an authorised body, or a Thai driving licence. The IDP format depends on the issuing country and the applicable 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna Convention. An IDP is not valid on its own without the national licence. Confirm your documents with the rental company and insurer before travel; receiving a car does not by itself prove that you are legally entitled to drive.

What to do after an accident

Stop safely, switch on the hazard lights and do not leave the scene. Call the rental company and insurer immediately. If anyone is injured or there is danger, call police 191, emergency medical services 1669, or Tourist Police 1155. Photograph the scene and damage, record the other parties’ details, and do not sign a document you do not understand.

Categories

All categories Booking process

Will I get the vehicle I booked?

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We arrange the vehicle selected in your booking. If damage or a delayed return makes it unavailable, we will contact you to agree on a possible replacement before handover.

What does Class 1 insurance cover?

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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.

Can I return the car at a later date?

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Contact us in advance if you need a later return. Any extension and its price must be agreed; availability depends on subsequent bookings.

If I return the car early, will I get a refund for unused days?

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Unused days are non-refundable on early return unless your agreement states otherwise.

What is the minimum age to rent a car

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The minimum age to rent a car from our company is 18 years old.

Whether an international driver's license is required to rent a car

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To collect a vehicle, you need a national driving licence for the appropriate category together with a valid International Driving Permit, or a Thai driving licence. An IDP is not valid without the national licence. Vehicle handover may be refused if required documents are missing.

What is a refundable security deposit?

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The deposit is refundable security under your rental agreement. The amount is shown for the selected vehicle. It may cover agreed charges for damage, missing fuel, fines, tolls and unpaid services. Refunds and any temporary retention for checking fines follow the rental terms. A deposit or insurance excess does not mean that the full amount is automatically charged for a minor repair.

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