Car Hire in Madeira, Portugal

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to Madeira, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, hire rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

For short trips, car-sharing services may be more economical and flexible.

Most rental companies will require a credit card for the deposit, which is typically frozen in your account. Make sure to inquire about the specific deposit amount and the policy for releasing the freeze.

When renting a car, especially after travelling by train, allocate extra time for pickup to account for possible delays. Most car hire companies offer a 30-60 minute grace period. Sharing your train number can be helpful, but if you're running late, be sure to contact the car hire provider to let them know.

Renting outside busy areas can reduce costs and parking challenges.

Some areas may have restrictions; ensure you know where you can and cannot drive.

If sharing driving responsibilities, check the policies regarding additional drivers. Some companies charge fees for each extra driver, while others may include it for free under certain conditions.

Knowing where to refuel can prevent running low on gas during your trip.