Reading the rental agreement before accepting the keys
The desk agreement should reflect the booking you intend to use. Take time to compare its main terms and optional products before signing or confirming on a screen.
Reconcile new payment lines with What remains to pay at the rental counter?. If a protection line says zero excess, check What does zero excess mean in a rental offer? before interpreting its scope.
Check the trip and cost lines
Verify the authorised drivers, vehicle, dates, return location, mileage, fuel or charging terms and security amount. Compare any payable balance with the voucher. Ask what each unfamiliar line means and whether it is compulsory or optional for your selected offer.
Keep the accepted version
If you decline an optional product, check the document after the change rather than relying on a verbal reassurance. Ask for an accessible copy of the final agreement and condition report. If a translation is unclear, seek an explanation before accepting a commitment you do not understand.
If another traveller will drive, complete the additional-driver authorisation process and check the final agreement before they take over.
Read the final screen in four passes
Check people, journey, money and optional products separately. If an agent removes an item, review the revised document rather than the earlier screen. Ask for an accessible final copy before departure, including the condition record. This is especially useful when the signature screen shows only part of the agreement.
| Check | What to record |
|---|---|
| People and car | Names, authorisation and vehicle |
| Journey and money | Times, return point, balance and security |
| Optional choices | Accepted or declined items reflected correctly |
Your practical checklist
- Match the correct vehicle and registration.
- Confirm any upgrade price before agreeing.
- Save the return and assistance instructions with the contract.
The question to resolve before you proceed
Which lines differ from my original booking, and why?
Explore the full topic in Collecting a rental car: arrival and handover.
