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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Most rental companies accept EUR or local currency (INR) by credit card.
Immediately notify the police and the rental company. Take pictures of the scene and the damage.
The car must be returned at the location and time specified by the rental company.
Most rental companies offer unlimited mileage, but it is worth checking the terms and conditions.
The CDW covers damage to the car, but usually has an excess.
The deposit is an amount that the rental company holds on your credit card to cover potential damage or charges.
You will need a driver's license, passport, and a credit card.
Yes, but you usually have to pay an extra fee for the additional driver.
Most rental companies offer GPS for rent, or you can use your mobile phone for navigation.
Most rental companies provide the car with a full tank and require you to return it with a full tank.
Cancellation terms depend on the rental company, so it is worth checking in advance.