Renting a motor vehicle

Hiring a car

There are no specific EU rules on hiring cars, but you still benefit from your basic consumer rights when you rent a car in another EU country. This includes:

• the right to clear information
• the right to a fair contract
• access to alternative dispute resolution in case of disputes with the rental company

When you book a car, you should distinguish between rental companies and intermediaries or brokers. Intermediaries do not provide the rental car themselves, but book a car in your name with the rental company. In case of disputes, the rental company is the one responsible for the implementation of the contract, unless stated otherwise in the contract.

The Your Europe Portal provides comprehensive information for citizens and businesses.

This Assistance Service supports you in exercising your rights and fulfilling your duties in the European internal market.

• European Consumer Centre Germany