Renting a car in Beijing

Reservations

Reservations shall be made with car rental companies. The documents required for car rental reservations normally include an ID card or other valid identification documents, a valid driving licence and a deposit ( ranging from RMB2,000 to RMB10,000). Some car rental companies require a letter of guarantee issued by the company to which the lessee belongs.

Picking up the car

The car can be picked up at the agreed time. The car is examined by both sides and written confirmation of the state of the car at the time of renting shall be confirmed. The lessee shall leave his ID card or other valid identification documents with the company as a pledge.

Returning the car

The car will have to be returned at the designated premises of the car rental company. The car should be re-examined by both sides at the time of return. If damages are found, the costs of repair under RMB300 shall be paid completely by the lessee. Where the cost of repair is over RMB300, the lessee shall pay the balance of the insurance premium. If the car needs to be sent to a garage for the repair of severe damages, the lessee shall also compensate for losses resulting from non-availability of the car (normally 60 “100 per cent of the daily rental).

Reservation cancellations

Cancellation of a reservation must be made 24 hours in advance, otherwise the lessee will be subject to a fine equivalent to 30 per cent of the daily rental. Those wishing to extend the rent must similarly notify the car rental company 24 hours in advance. The extension can only be made valid by approval from the car rental company. Otherwise , the extension will be regarded as a delay which will be subject to a fine (20 per cent of the daily rental for each hour overdue).

Maximum mileage

Each car rental company has a limit on maximum mileage per day of rental, normally between 120 to 150 kilometres a day. Additional kilometres will be subject to extra charges.

Breakdown

In case of breakdown, contact the car rental company immediately. Free on-site rescue services are normally provided.