Welcome to Durham Tees Valley Airport! Renting a car is a great way to explore the area, but knowing about pickup, paperwork, costs, and local traffic rules can help make your trip smoother. In this guide, you’ll find all the important information you need for car rental at and around the airport.
Car rental company offices are usually located inside or near the airport terminal. In most cases, they are accessible by a short transfer bus or on foot after baggage claim. It’s worth checking the specific location in your booking confirmation or on the airport’s website.
Numerous international and local car rental companies operate at Durham Tees Valley Airport. Common players include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. The range of options may vary, so it’s worth comparing prices and conditions from different companies.
The choice depends on your personal needs and planned travel. Here are some popular categories:
| Category | Daily price (EUR, approximately) |
| Economy | 25 - 40 |
| Compact | 30 - 50 |
| Mid-size | 40 - 60 |
| SUV | 60 - 100+ |
| Luxury | 100+ |
Prices vary seasonally and depending on availability.
Most car rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old to drive, but certain categories may have a higher age limit. Required documents include a driver’s license, identification (passport or ID card), and a credit card. When booking, you usually need to reserve the category in advance, but the specific model cannot be guaranteed. The deposit amount will be reserved on your credit card and returned at the end of the rental period, provided the car is returned undamaged.
Mandatory liability insurance is usually included in the rental price. It’s worth considering additional insurance options, such as CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) – which reduces your excess in the event of an accident – theft insurance, or full coverage. Ask the car rental agent about the terms and fees.
In the United Kingdom, you must drive on the left side of the road. Speed limits are usually given in miles per hour, but most car rental companies offer vehicles equipped with GPS that also display speed in kilometers. Parking in cities is often paid, and parking regulations must be strictly observed. There is generally no speed limit on motorways, but it may vary depending on traffic.
No, if you have a valid European driving license.
Most major credit cards are accepted, such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
The deposit amount depends on the rental category, but it usually ranges between 500–1500 EUR.
The car must be returned to the car rental office at the airport at the end of the rental period.
Immediately call the police and notify the car rental company.
Most rental rates include unlimited mileage.
Most car rental companies offer GPS for rent, or it is built into the vehicles.
Most parking lots accept both cash and bank cards.
Traffic can be heavy in cities, especially during peak hours.
The speed limit is generally 112 km/h (70 mph), but it may be lower on certain sections.
There are no toll highways in the United Kingdom, except for some bridges and tunnels.
Use a GPS or map, and ask people for help.