Welcome to Edinburgh Airport! Renting a car is a great way to explore Scotland, 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 Edinburgh Airport.
Car rental company offices are usually located inside or near the airport terminals. Most major car rental companies are present, such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. Pickup points are often in parking garages or in separate zones near the terminals. It’s worth checking the specific location in your booking confirmation.
In Edinburgh and the surrounding area, you can choose from a variety of cars, depending on the type of trip you are planning. 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 may vary depending on seasonal changes and availability.
To rent a car, you generally need a valid driver's license, identification (passport or ID card), and a credit card to deposit the security deposit. Most car rental companies require a minimum age of 21, but higher age limits may apply for certain categories (e.g., luxury cars, SUVs). The deposit amount varies depending on the vehicle category, but is generally several hundred euros.
It is important to clarify the insurance terms. Most car rental companies offer basic insurance (CDW – Collision Damage Waiver), which covers collision damage. However, it is worth considering additional insurance, such as theft insurance or excess reduction insurance. Ask the agent exactly what damages are covered and in what cases you need to pay an excess.
In the United Kingdom, you must drive on the left. Speed limits are generally given in miles per hour, but most car rental companies offer a GPS that also displays speed in kilometers. The speed limit on highways is generally 112 km/h (70 mph), and in towns 48 km/h (30 mph). Toll roads are less common in Scotland, but it is worth checking local parking regulations, as you may be fined for violations.
If you are coming from the EU, generally no. However, it is worth checking the rules of your own country.
Most major credit cards are accepted, but it is worth checking with the specific car rental company in advance.
The deposit amount depends on the vehicle category, but is generally several hundred euros.
Stop immediately and notify the police. Take pictures of the scene and contact the car rental company.
Return the car at the location and time specified in your booking. Make sure you have removed all your personal belongings from the car.
This depends on the fuel policy you selected when booking. It can be full-to-full, or partial-to-full.
Most car rental companies offer unlimited mileage, but it is worth checking the booking conditions.
Most car rental companies offer GPS for rent. It is usually easy to use, but it is worth finding out in advance.
Notify the car rental company immediately. Your booking may be automatically canceled if you are late.
Additional drivers must be declared at the time of booking or upon pickup. This usually incurs an extra cost.
Most parking lots accept both cash and bank cards.