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Car Rental at Chennai Airport (MAA) – Pickup, Prices & Local Driving Tips
Economy cars
SUVs
Vans
Convertibles
Premium cars
Lowest prices for car rental at Chennai Airport
Choose the right car for your trip in Chennai, India and book in minutes. Compare trusted rental options, find great daily rates, and secure convenient airport pick-up for your travel dates.
Renault Clio
Compact car
from
€18
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 4
Airport pick-up
No deposit options
Insurance packages available
Good for city driving
Opel Astra
Compact car
from
€21
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 5
Rental office in terminal area
Unlimited mileage offers
Debit card accepted by some suppliers
Popular for regional trips
Volkswagen Up
Small car
from
€16
per day
- Automatic
- 4
- 2
- 4
Easy parking in the city
Low fuel consumption
Fast airport collection
Convenient for short stays
Fiat 500
Mini car
from
€17
per day
- Automatic
- 4
- 1
- 3
Rental office
Small deposit plans
Ideal for couples
Quick return process
Volkswagen Polo
Economy car
from
€20
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 5
Free shuttle service from airport
Balanced price and comfort
Available from major suppliers
Suitable for longer itineraries
Dacia Sandero Stepway
SUV
from
€26
per day
- Automatic
- 5
- 2
- 5
Better road visibility
Useful for family travel
Comfortable luggage space
Good for mixed city and highway routes
Welcome to Chennai! Renting a car is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings, but knowing about pickup, paperwork, costs, and local traffic rules can help make your trip smoother. In this article, you’ll find all the important information you need for car rental at Chennai Airport (MAA).
Where are the car rental companies located?
Car rental company offices are usually located on the airport grounds, near the baggage claim area, or in the parking lots. Most rental companies offer free transfers between their office and the terminal, but it’s worth checking in advance. Most international and local car rental companies are present at Chennai Airport, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local rental companies.
What kind of car should I choose?
The choice depends on your needs. There are many cars to choose from for exploring Chennai and the surrounding area:
| Car Class | Daily Price (EUR, approx.) |
| Economy | 15 - 25 |
| Compact | 20 - 35 |
| Mid-size | 30 - 50 |
| SUV | 50 - 80 |
| Luxury | 80+ |
Prices vary seasonally and depending on availability.
What you need to know about renting
Most car rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old to drive, but higher age limits may apply to certain car classes. The required documents include a driver's license, passport, and a credit card to cover the deposit and costs. The deposit amount varies depending on the rental company and car class. Most rental companies accept credit cards, but it’s worth checking in advance about possible payment methods.
Insurance options
When renting, you usually have three insurance options: mandatory liability insurance, theft insurance, and collision damage waiver (CDW). The CDW covers damage to the car, but usually has an excess (deductible) that you have to pay. It’s worth asking the rental company what excess applies to the CDW and whether there is an option to reduce or waive the excess.
Driving in India
India's traffic rules may differ from what you are used to. Traffic can be dense and chaotic, so extra attention is needed. Most highways have tolls, so have cash ready. Parking in the city center can be difficult, so it’s worth looking for parking garages. Speed limits are generally low, but local drivers often ignore them.
FAQ
Do I need an international driving permit?
In most cases, no, if your driver's license also has Latin characters. However, it is worth checking the rental company's terms and conditions.
What currency can I pay in?
Most rental companies accept EUR or local currency (INR) by credit card.
What should I do if I have an accident?
Immediately notify the police and the rental company. Take pictures of the scene and the damage.
How do I return the car?
The car must be returned at the location and time specified by the rental company.
Is there a mileage limit?
Most rental companies offer unlimited mileage, but it is worth checking the terms and conditions.
What does the CDW cover?
The CDW covers damage to the car, but usually has an excess.
How does the deposit work?
The deposit is an amount that the rental company holds on your credit card to cover potential damage or charges.
What documents are required for rental?
You will need a driver's license, passport, and a credit card.
Can I add an additional driver?
Yes, but you usually have to pay an extra fee for the additional driver.
What about GPS?
Most rental companies offer GPS for rent, or you can use your mobile phone for navigation.
What are the fuel rules?
Most rental companies provide the car with a full tank and require you to return it with a full tank.
How can I cancel the reservation?
Cancellation terms depend on the rental company, so it is worth checking in advance.