Arriving at Frankfurt Airport is a great start to your journey through Germany. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, understand potential costs, and prepare for driving on German roads.
Most car rental companies have their counters directly at Frankfurt Airport. They are usually located in the arrival area, often in the basement of the terminals or nearby. To reach the vehicle pickup location, you may need to use a free shuttle that runs between the terminals and parking areas where the cars are located. Pay attention to signs in the airport to find the desired office.
The following car rental companies are usually represented at Frankfurt Airport: Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt and others. The choice of cars is quite wide, from economy models to premium SUVs. Here are a few popular options:
| Car Class | Approximate Daily Cost (EUR) |
| Economy | 25 – 40 |
| Compact | 35 – 55 |
| Intermediate | 50 – 70 |
| SUV | 70 – 120 |
| Premium | 100+ |
Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and car availability.
You will need the following documents to rent a car: a valid driver's license (an international driver's license may be required if your license is not in Latin characters), a passport or other identification document, and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, but some companies may require 23 or 25 years. A deposit will be blocked on your credit card and may vary depending on the car class and insurance coverage. Make sure your card has sufficient funds for the deposit.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the car as a result of a collision. Theft insurance protects against loss of the vehicle. Pay attention to the amount of the excess – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully before signing the contract.
Germany has a well-developed network of highways, where there are often no speed limits (but it is recommended to maintain a reasonable speed). Other roads have speed limits that must be observed. Toll roads exist for trucks, but most roads are free for passenger cars. Parking in cities may be paid, so pay attention to signs and parking meters. Be attentive to other road users and follow traffic rules.
Driver's license, passport and credit card in the driver's name.
Usually 21, but some companies require 23 or 25.
Collision Damage Waiver.
The amount you will pay yourself in case of damage or theft.
May be required if your license is not in Latin characters.
Usually in the arrival area, in the basement of the terminals or nearby.
Most roads are free for passenger cars, but there are toll roads for trucks.
The deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after returning the car.
Yes, by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost.
Often there are none, but it is recommended to maintain a reasonable speed.
Immediately notify the rental company and fill out a damage report.