Question 1

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You'll need a valid IDP along with your original driver's license from your home country. Make sure to get your IDP before traveling to Korea.

Question 2

What's the minimum age to rent a car?

Accepted Answer

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old with at least 1 year of driving experience. Some luxury vehicles may require you to be 26+.

Question 3

Can I use Google Maps for navigation?

Accepted Answer

Google Maps has limited functionality in Korea. We recommend Naver Maps or Kakao Map - both have English options and are much more accurate for Korean roads.

Question 4

How long is my foreign license valid in Korea?

Accepted Answer

Your foreign license combined with an IDP is valid for up to 1 year from your entry date. For stays longer than 1 year, you'll need to convert to a Korean license.

Question 5

Where can I pick up a rental car?

Accepted Answer

Major pickup locations include Incheon Airport, Gimpo Airport, Jeju Airport, Seoul Station, and city centers in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju. Airport locations often have 24/7 service.

Question 6

What payment methods are accepted?

Accepted Answer

Most rental companies accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX). Some locations also accept Korean payment methods like KakaoPay.

Question 7

Can I modify or cancel my booking?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Free cancellation is typically available up to 24-48 hours before pickup. Check the specific terms when booking.

Question 8

Is a credit card required for the deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a credit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit. The amount is typically ₩200,000-500,000.

Question 9

Can I add an additional driver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most companies allow additional drivers for a fee (around ₩5,000-10,000/day). The additional driver must also have a valid license and IDP.

Question 10

Can I rent a child car seat?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Child seats are available at most rental companies for ₩5,000-10,000/day. Reserve in advance as availability can be limited.

Question 11

What insurance is included?

Accepted Answer

Basic insurance is included in all rentals, covering third-party liability. We recommend upgrading to full coverage (CDW/LDW).

Question 12

What happens if I have an accident?

Accepted Answer

Stay calm, ensure everyone's safety, and call 112 (police) if needed. Contact your rental company immediately and take photos of any damage.

Question 13

What if my car breaks down?

Accepted Answer

Call your rental company's 24/7 hotline immediately. Most companies provide free roadside assistance. For emergencies, call 1330 (tourism hotline with English).

Question 14

What's the blood alcohol limit for driving?

Accepted Answer

Korea has a strict 0.03% BAC limit - among the lowest in the world. Penalties include heavy fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. Don't drink and drive!

Question 15

Where can I find gas stations?

Accepted Answer

Gas stations are everywhere! Most are full-service. Highway rest stops always have gas stations. Payment is easy with credit cards.

Question 16

How do toll roads work?

Accepted Answer

Most rental cars come with Hi-Pass (automatic toll payment). Just drive through the Hi-Pass lane and charges are added to your rental bill.

Question 17

Where can I park in Korea?

Accepted Answer

Street parking is limited in cities. Look for public parking lots (marked with 'P') or use apps like Kakao Map to find nearby parking. Expect ₩1,000-3,000/hour in city centers.

Question 18

How do speed cameras work?

Accepted Answer

Speed cameras are common on highways and in cities. Your navigation app will alert you. Fines start at ₩40,000 for minor violations and go up significantly for excessive speeding.

How can we help?

Need more help?

Helpful Resources