Car Rental Requirements & Conditions
1. What is the minimum and maximum car rental duration? αυτοκινήτου;
The minimum rental period is one (1) day, while the maximum is 28 days. After this period, the vehicle must be returned to Drive. For longer-term rentals, our company offers competitive monthly rates through the Drive More program.
2. What Documents Do I Need to Provide at the Rental Office?υ πρέπει να προσκομίσω στο γραφείο ενοικίασης;
Upon picking up the vehicle, the driver must present the following in physical form and using Latin characters:
ID card or passport
Valid European or International driver’s license (valid for at least 12 months)
Credit card (Visa or MasterCard) accepted by Drive Hellas for the security deposit
3. What’s Covered in My Reservation?
Your rental includes: basic insurance (CDW), third-party liability insurance, unlimited mileage*, and 24-hour roadside assistance.
*For rentals of 1, 2, or 3 days (up to 72 hours), the mileage limit is 150 km per day. Any extra kilometers will be charged at €0.15 per km.
For rentals of 4 days or more, we offer truly unlimited mileage at no extra cost.
4. Booking a Car for Today – How It Works?
You can book your car online up to 1 hour before pickup, subject to availability.
For last-minute bookings, please call +30 2310 472600 to speak with a representative about vehicle availability.
5. Who’s Eligible to Drive a Drive Rental Car?
Eligible drivers must meet the following criteria:
Hold a valid driver’s license for at least 12 months as of the rental date
Be between 23 and 70 years old
Each vehicle may be driven by up to two authorized drivers. The second driver can be added during booking or at vehicle pickup. This service comes with an additional daily fee and provides the same insurance coverage as the primary driver.
*Driving by unauthorized drivers is not covered by insurance and is prohibited by the rental terms.
6. What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made up to 15 days before the scheduled pickup date: A full refund of the prepaid amount will be issued.
Cancellations made within 15 days of the pickup date: The prepaid amount will be refunded, minus a fee equivalent to the cost of one day’s rental.
7. How Can I Cancel or Modify My Booking?
If you booked online through the Drive website, please click the “Modify Booking” field and enter your reservation number and the driver’s last name used for the original booking to make any changes.
If your booking was made by phone, please contact us at +30 2310 472600 or rentacar@drive-hellas.gr so we can assist with the requested modifications.
For bookings made via other websites or travel agencies, you must contact the respective agency directly to cancel or modify your reservation.
Having trouble making changes online? Call us at +30 2310 472600 and one of our specialists will assist you immediately.
Please note that any changes to your booking may affect the final price, as it will be recalculated based on current rates, vehicle availability, pickup/drop-off location, and other relevant factors.
8. Can I pick up or drop off the car at a different location?
Drive offers a Delivery & Collection service, allowing you to pick up or return your vehicle at selected locations outside of our standard offices or airports (e.g., hotels, ports, train stations, or bus stations) for an additional fee. Please note that, currently, this service is not available for residential (home) deliveries or collections.
9. Is One Way rental available?
One Way service is available between selected Drive branches for an additional charge. This service must be arranged in advance and is subject to availability between specific locations.
10. What are the pickup and return hours for a rental vehicle?
Our standard operating hours vary by location. Generally, pickups and returns are available during office hours. However, we offer Out-of-Hours services for a fee if you need to collect or return your vehicle late at night or early in the morning. Please contact your specific rental station for their exact schedule.
11. My flight arrives late at night. How can I pick up a car then?
You can pick up or return your vehicle outside of Drive’s standard operating hours, provided you have requested this during your initial booking or have notified our reservations department at least 24 hours in advance. Please note that this Out-of-Hours service is subject to an additional fee.
12. What if I am late returning the car?
We provide a 59-minute grace period. Returns delayed by more than 59 minutes will incur a charge for one (1) additional rental day.
13. Can I drop off the car early?
Yes, but please notify us in advance if the return is at an airport or off-site location. No refunds are provided for the remaining period of the rental in the event of an early return.
14. How can I extend my rental?
If you wish to extend your rental period, please contact Drive’s head office as soon as possible at +30 2310 472600. The cost of the extension is calculated based on current rates per day. Please note that during peak season, extensions may not be possible due to limited vehicle availability.
15. What is the fuel policy?
We operate a “Same to Same” policy; return the car with the same fuel level recorded at the start of your rental. To save time, you can purchase our “Full to Empty” service during booking, allowing you to return the car empty for a set fee.
16. What happens if I return the vehicle with more or less fuel?
If the vehicle is returned with less fuel than it had at pickup, the renter will be charged for the missing fuel plus a refueling service fee of €12. If the vehicle is returned with more fuel than it had at pickup, no refund will be provided for the extra fuel.
17. Can I get an invoice?
Yes. Please request an invoice during your online booking or at the time of pickup. Your invoice will be issued once the vehicle is returned and sent to you by email or mail.
18. Can I drive abroad?
No, taking the vehicle across the Greek border is not allowed.
19. Can I travel from the mainland to an island?
If the vehicle is returned to an airport or any location other than a Drive office, please inform us in advance of your desired return date and time. Please note that no refunds are issued for early returns made before the scheduled expiration of the rental agreement.
How do I find the Drive office at the airport?
Thessaloniki Airport
Our Drive team will meet you at Parking 5 to guide you to the free shuttle bus, which will take you directly to collect your vehicle.
Athens Airport
Meet our Drive representative at Parking 5 for a free shuttle transfer to the car rental pick-up location.
Ioannina Airport
A Meet & Greet service is provided. A Drive representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name on it. Both vehicle pick-up and return take place right outside the Terminal building.
Santorini Airport
Look for our representative with your name sign in the arrivals hall. We provide a free shuttle service to our pick-up location and a complimentary return transfer to the Terminal upon drop-off.
Samos Airport
Meet our Drive representative at Gate 9 (Arrivals Hall) for a free shuttle transfer to the car pick-up location.
Heraklion Airport
You will find the Drive office located just outside the Terminal, directly across from the main exit. The pick-up point is easily accessible on foot.
Chania Airport
You will find the Drive office about 200 meters to the left after exiting the Terminal. Both car pick-up and drop-off are handled at this location, easily accessible on foot.
Alexandroupoli Airport
You can find the Drive office conveniently located right inside the Terminal.
Kavala Airport
For your convenience, Drive can deliver or collect your vehicle at selected spots such as hotels, ports, and transit stations (additional fees apply). Please note that home deliveries and collections are currently unavailable.
Corfu Airport
Free shuttle service is available from the Terminal to our pick-up location. The shuttle is located right outside the arrivals hall exit.
Zakynthos Airport
Upon exiting the arrivals hall, turn left; the Drive office is just 150 meters away. Both car collection and return are conveniently accessible on foot.
Kefalonia Airport
Once you exit the airport building, turn right and follow the path for about 200 meters. The Drive office is located directly ahead.
Paros Airport
Our Meet & Greet service ensures a smooth start to your trip. A Drive representative will meet you at arrivals with a sign featuring your name
Samos Airport
We offer a Meet & Greet service at the arrivals hall; please ensure you have provided your flight number. Our pick-up and drop-off point is located just 50 meters from the Terminal.
Patra Airport
A Meet & Greet service is provided. A Drive representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall (flight number is required). Both vehicle pick-up and return take place at the airport parking area.
Kalamata Airport
A Meet & Greet service is provided. A Drive representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall (flight number is required). Both vehicle pick-up and return take place at the airport parking area.
Milos Airport
You can find the Drive office conveniently located right inside the Terminal.
Naxos Airport
A Meet & Greet service is provided. A Drive representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall (flight number is required). Both vehicle pick-up and return take place at the airport parking area.
Kos Airport
The pick-up point is located outside the Terminal building, approximately 100 meters on foot to the left of the airport gas station.
Mykonos Airport
The Drive office is located outside the Terminal building, approximately 350 meters away on foot
Ikaria Airport
A Meet & Greet service is provided. A Drive representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition.
Mytilene Airport
A Meet & Greet service is provided. A Drive representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition.
Insurance Coverages & Fees
1. Can I rent a car with zero excess?
Yes, Drive provides Full Damage Waiver (FDW), which reduces or eliminates the driver’s excess in the event of damage. By choosing this coverage during booking or at car pick-up, no security deposit will be blocked on your credit card. Full Damage Waiver (FDW) and premium coverage (Drive Safe+) are available at an additional daily cost.
2.Is insurance included in my rental
Every car rental includes basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which limits your financial responsibility to an excess amount ranging from €930 to €1,860, depending on the car category.
3. Can I upgrade my insurance?
Absolutely! We offer two upgrade options:
Full Coverage (FDW): Covers Third-Party Liability, Theft, and Material Damages with a reduced deductible.
Premium Coverage (Drive Safe+): Our most complete package, including FDW benefits plus Extended Roadside Assistance and coverage for tire repairs.”
4. If I purchase Full (FDW) or Premium (SCDW) Insurance, am I covered for all damages?
No insurance package covers the following:
Damage to wheels and tires
Broken glass (windshield and side windows)
Damage to the underbody of the vehicle
Damage to the vehicle interior
Mechanical damage or failure caused by driver misuse
Damage occurring while the vehicle is being transported by ferry
Expenses resulting from refueling with the wrong type of fuel
Cost of damage to or loss of the vehicle key
Loss of the spare tire and related tools, safety triangle, or fire extinguisher
Damage to or loss of the luggage compartment cover (parcel shelf)
Deep cleaning service (biological cleaning) for excessively dirty or mistreated interiors
Accident administration fees in case the renter is at fault
Administrative fees for traffic fines incurred during the rental period
Furthermore, no insurance coverage applies if:
The renter is driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
The renter is driving on unpaved or off-road surfaces.
There is a confirmed violation of the Traffic Code.
5. Is a credit card mandatory?
Yes, a physical Visa or Mastercard credit card is required for the security deposit, regardless of how you choose to pay for the rental or which insurance package you have purchased.
6. Can I use third-party or credit card insurance?
Third-party insurance typically operates on a reimbursement basis. This means that if damage occurs, you will be charged the excess amount by Drive according to your car category. You will then need to contact your provider to request a refund of the paid amount.”
7. When do I get my deposit back?
Once the car is returned in its original condition and with the correct fuel level, we immediately authorize the release of your deposit. Please note that the final processing time is determined by your bank and can take anywhere from a few hours to 30 working days.
Breakdowns & Emergencies
1.What if the car is damaged during the rental?
Repair costs are determined by international assessment standards. A minimum fee of €150 + VAT applies to all damages, capped at the excess amount of your car category. This cost will be charged against the pre-authorized amount on your credit card or your security deposit.
2. The car won't start. What should I do?
For Manual Transmission: Fully press the clutch pedal and try to start the engine with the key. Also, try moving the steering wheel slightly in case the steering lock is engaged.
For Automatic Transmission: Ensure the gear lever is in the “P” (Park) position, press the brake pedal, and simultaneously start the engine using the key or the start button.
If the vehicle still does not start, please contact Roadside Assistance at the phone number located in the top right corner of your rental agreement, or alternatively, contact the Drive head office.
3.What should I do in case of a breakdown?
In any case, please notify the Drive branch where you rented the vehicle. If the vehicle is immobilized or unable to operate, contact Roadside Assistance at 1057 or +30 2310462402. When calling, please state that it is a Drive vehicle and provide the license plate number.
4. Am I entitled to a replacement car if mine breaks down?
Yes. If your car needs repair and cannot be fixed on the spot, we will provide a replacement of the same or a higher category for free. If you are on the road and the car is immobilized, Roadside Assistance will transport you and the vehicle to our nearest station to collect your replacement car as quickly as possible.
5.What should I do in case of an accident?
I. Immediate Action: In the event of an accident, you must contact the police immediately by dialing 100. If you or any passenger is injured, please report it so that medical assistance can be dispatched to the scene.
II. Notification: Inform the Drive branch where you rented the vehicle as soon as possible.
III. Accident Care: Contact the Accident Care Service at the phone number listed on the vehicle’s insurance policy (usually found with the registration documents in the glove compartment).
IV. Documentation: You must provide the Drive office with the documents issued by the police and the Accident Care Service. Additionally, you will be required to complete and sign the Drive Accident Report.
6. What if the car is still running after an accident?
Even if the car is drivable, you must first secure the official police and insurance reports. Once you have them, drive to the closest Drive station immediately. We will inspect the car for safety and provide a replacement vehicle if necessary.
7.What if the car cannot be driven after an accident?
Once you have secured the official police and insurance reports, contact Roadside Assistance to tow the vehicle and transport you to our closest station. We will provide you with a replacement car on the spot to ensure you can continue your journey.
8. What will I be charged in the event of an accident?
If you are at fault: The cost of the damage is calculated based on an international assessment program. The minimum charge is €150 + VAT and can increase up to the maximum liability (excess) limit defined for each vehicle category. Please note that accident administration fees are also included in the total amount.
If you are not at fault: As long as this is clearly stated in the official police report, you will not be charged for any damages to the vehicle.
9. What should I do in case of a tire-related issue?
In the event of partial or total loss of tire pressure, for safety reasons, you must replace the wheel with the spare tire. If you do not know how to change a tire or if the vehicle is equipped with a tire repair kit instead of a spare, please contact Roadside Assistance at the number shown in the top right corner of your rental agreement (1057 or +30 2310462402).
Please note that no insurance package covers damage to wheels or tires; therefore, any repair or replacement costs are the responsibility of the renter.
10. Can I repair the tire at a nearby tire shop?
No, unless you have received prior written authorization from Drive.
11. Can I repair a fault that I have noticed?
No, unauthorized repairs are strictly forbidden. Please notify Drive as soon as you notice a fault. If the car is not safe to drive and cannot be fixed immediately, we will provide a replacement vehicle free of charge.
12. I am locked out of the car. What should I do?
If you have locked the keys inside the vehicle, please contact Drive immediately. You will need to visit the branch where you picked up the car to collect the spare key. If you are in a remote area, we can send the key via courier service, with the shipping costs borne by the renter.
To avoid additional charges, the car must be returned with both keys. In case of loss or damage to a key, please contact Drive to arrange for a replacement. Please note that replacement fees apply, ranging from €150 + VAT to €500 + VAT, depending on the vehicle category.
13. What should I do in case of vehicle theft?
In the event of partial or total theft of the rental vehicle, please immediately notify both Drive and the local police authorities where the incident occurred.
Please note that the basic insurance coverage (CDW) does not cover theft-related damages. For your protection, you may opt for additional Theft Protection (TP) during booking or at pick-up, which reduces or eliminates your liability amount.
14. What should I do in case of a vehicle break-in?
No insurance package covers damages or losses resulting from a vehicle break-in; therefore, Drive bears no responsibility for the loss of personal belongings. In the event of a break-in, please contact Drive immediately and bring the vehicle to our nearest branch so that the repair costs can be assessed.
15.What happens if I receive a traffic fine?
The driver of the vehicle is solely responsible for all traffic violations. If a fine is issued during the rental period, the renter is responsible for paying it immediately to the relevant authorities. In the event of non-payment, Drive reserves the right to charge the renter for the full amount of the fine, plus an administration fee of €50 + VAT.
16.Can I tow with a Drive Hellas vehicle?
No, towing with Drive rental vehicles is strictly prohibited. Any form of towing, whether it involves another vehicle or a trailer, is not covered by the company. Engaging in towing may lead to the cancellation of the vehicle’s insurance coverage and result in additional charges for any damages caused.