Car Rental in Taiwan for Canadian Travelers

Traveling to Taiwan and exploring its diverse landscapes by car is an adventure worth experiencing.
Canadian travelers often wonder:

Can I use my Canadian driver's license in Taiwan?
Do Canadian travelers need an International Driving Permit?
What are the typical car rental prices in Taiwan?
Are there additional fees or conditions I should be aware of?
What are Taiwan's most important traffic regulations?

This guide is here to provide all the essential details for a hassle-free car rental experience in Taiwan. From understanding documentation requirements to navigating local roads, we’ve got you covered. Stay till the end for quick tips and a handy reference table for your journey.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Taiwan?

Yes, Canadian travelers can legally drive in Taiwan with the proper documentation. Ensure you meet the age requirements and carry the necessary documents.

Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Taiwan Driving License in China
Notes: Due to reciprocal driver's license principle in Taiwan, please contact the rental company in advance and let them know your driver's license is issued in what country and state/province, which will help the rental company confirm your eligibility.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, JCB, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 or older drivers aged 75-80 may incur additional fees, which are to be confirmed at the rental desk.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore trusted car rental services, both global and local, offering tailored solutions for travelers from Canada visiting Taiwan.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
23
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
30
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
112
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong global presence
- User-friendly online booking system
- Loyalty program with discounts
- Variety of vehicle types including SUVs and sedans
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
88
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Thrifty
global
8.5
Locations:
50
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Competitive pricing
- Membership rewards program
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Dollar
global
8.5
Locations:
48
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide selection of economy vehicles
- Easy online booking
- Flexible rental terms
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers

Chailease
local
8.5
Locations:
52
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicles
- Tailored services for corporate clients
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Local travelers and businesses
Goodcars
local
8.5
Locations:
6
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized customer service
- Easy online booking
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
SHANGDAOZUCHE
local
8.5
Locations:
4
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicle types
- Personalized service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Cyuan-Guo
local
8.5
Locations:
7
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Competitive pricing
- Convenient location
- Local knowledge
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You are visiting Taiwan for the first time
Need reliable customer service and nationwide coverage
Prefer a seamless booking experience
Traveling for business or official purposes

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking for competitive pricing
Planning to explore urban areas
Interested in experiencing unique vehicle types
Comfortable with app-based rental services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most drivers prefer automatic for TW road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Canadian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess kilometers
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Hualien, Kenting, Sun Moon Lake

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Taiwan?

Taiwan is known for its scenic drives and vibrant cities. Travelers from Canada can explore popular destinations like Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and Hualien. These locations offer excellent opportunities for cultural experiences, culinary delights, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You will need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Taiwan (TW), but additional coverage is recommended for a worry-free travel experience. Insurance regulations may vary, so understanding your coverage options is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses during your trip.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
CAD 20-35/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Offers protection against the theft of the rental vehicle.
CAD 8-12/day
Essential
Third Party Liability Insurance (TPL)
Covers damages or injury caused to other parties and their property.
Often included in rental fee
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Provides coverage for medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
CAD 7-15/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW)
Reduces the excess amount or deductible to a lower level or zero in case of damage.
CAD 25-45/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Taiwan(China). Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $10,000.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $10,501.34

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Taiwan?

Smart planning can help Canadian travelers save significantly when renting a car in Taiwan. Factors such as timing, choice of rental agency, and understanding local policies play a crucial role.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Plan your rental and make reservations at least 3-6 weeks ahead of your trip to secure better rates and vehicle availability.
Save up to CAD 150
Use Price Comparison Tools
Platforms like Rentalcars.com or QEEQ help compare rates across multiple rental agencies for the best deals.
Save up to 20%
Understand the Fuel Policy
Opt for a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid high refueling charges. Refuel yourself at local stations for lower prices.
Save CAD 20-35 per rental
Avoid Unnecessary Add-ons
Decline extras like GPS or insurance if you already have alternatives or coverage through your credit card.
Save CAD 10-50 per day
Consider Off-Peak Rentals
Travel during less busy times to benefit from lower rental costs and better vehicle options.
Save up to 25%

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Taiwan as a traveler from Canada.

Driver's License Requirements
Ensure you have the correct documentation to drive in Taiwan.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your Canadian license.
- Your IDP must be valid and correspond to the vehicle category.
- Check if the rental company accepts foreign licenses directly.
Navigation Challenges
Navigating in Taiwan can be tricky without preparation.
- Road signs are primarily in Mandarin, though some have English translations.
- Ensure your rental includes a GPS system with English language support.
- Mobile navigation apps may require a local data plan.
Insurance Coverage
Confirm your insurance coverage before finalizing the rental.
- Rental companies may offer basic insurance, but verify its extent.
- Consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind.
- Check if your credit card provides car rental insurance internationally.
Traffic Regulations
Familiarize yourself with Taiwan's traffic laws to avoid fines or issues.
- Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
- Observe speed limits, which are strictly enforced by cameras.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
Fuel Options
Understanding fuel policies can save you money.
- Most rentals require you to return the car with a full tank.
- Gas stations may not accept foreign credit cards—carry cash.
- Be aware of fuel types suitable for your rental vehicle.
Toll Roads
Toll systems in Taiwan differ from those in Canada.
- Most highways in Taiwan use an electronic toll system.
- Ensure your rental is equipped with an electronic toll collection tag.
- Check with the rental company about payment methods for tolls.

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Differences and Similarities Between Canadian and Taiwanese Traffic Rules

Explore the key differences and commonalities between driving regulations in Canada and Taiwan, helping you adapt smoothly while driving abroad.

Driving Direction
TW
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
CA
Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Traffic Lights
TW
Red light running is strictly enforced with cameras.
CA
Traffic light violations are monitored but not as strictly.
Speed Limits
TW
Speed limits are indicated in kilometers per hour (km/h).
CA
Speed limits are also displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h).
Motorcycle Lanes
TW
Dedicated motorcycle lanes are common in urban areas.
CA
Motorcycles share regular lanes with cars.
Seatbelt Regulations
TW
Seatbelt use is mandatory for all passengers.
CA
Seatbelt use is mandatory for all passengers.
Police Interactions
TW
Traffic police may stop vehicles for random checks.
CA
Random stops are less common but always comply when asked.
Mobile Phone Usage
TW
Hands-free devices are required when using phones while driving.
CA
Hands-free devices are required when using phones while driving.
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with local signage and its meanings.
- • Always carry your driver's license and any necessary translation documents.
- • Stay alert for scooters and motorcycles, especially in urban areas.
- • Ensure your vehicle has adequate insurance coverage for Taiwan.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Canada renting a car in Taiwan(China)

Can I drive in Taiwan with only my Canadian provincial driver's license?

No. You must have both your valid Canadian provincial driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). Both documents must be presented when renting a car and if stopped by police.

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP) and how do I obtain one in Canada?

An IDP is an official translation of your Canadian driver’s license, recognized internationally. You can get it at any CAA branch by presenting your valid license, two passport-sized photos, and paying a fee. You must obtain it before leaving Canada.

What if my Canadian license or IDP is about to expire?

Both documents must remain valid throughout your rental period. Some companies require at least six months validity. If your IDP will expire during your trip, you cannot legally continue driving. Always check expiration dates before you travel.

Do I need to translate or notarize my Canadian driver’s license?

No. The IDP itself is the official translation, so no further translation or notarization is required as long as it is issued by CAA.

Is there an age limit for renting a car in Taiwan?

Yes. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 20 or 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may be charged a young driver surcharge. Some vehicles require drivers to be 25 or older.

Do rental companies require a minimum driving experience?

Yes. Most require you to have held your license for at least one year. High-performance or special vehicles may require two years or more of driving experience.

Besides my license and IDP, what other documents do I need to rent a car?

You need your valid Canadian driver’s license, valid IDP, passport, and a credit card (in the main driver’s name) for payment and deposit.

If my friend and I both want to drive, what do we need?

Each driver must be present at pick-up and provide the same set of documents: valid license, IDP, and passport. Additional driver fees may apply, and only registered drivers are covered by insurance.

Can I use a digital or photocopied version of my license or IDP for car rental?

Absolutely not. Only original, physical documents are accepted. Digital copies or photocopies are not valid.

Do I need to understand Taiwan’s driver licensing system as a visitor?

No. As a visitor, you only need to know that your Canadian license plus IDP gives you temporary driving rights (usually up to 30 days after entry, subject to IDP validity). Focus on local traffic rules instead.

What’s the most convenient platform for Canadians to book car rentals in Taiwan?

QEEQ is highly recommended for international travelers. It offers a user-friendly interface, supports multiple languages, and allows you to compare both international and top local rental companies in Taiwan.

How far in advance should I book a rental car?

Book as early as possible, especially around public holidays such as Lunar New Year, Tomb Sweeping Day, Dragon Boat Festival, or Mid-Autumn Festival. For peak periods, book 1-2 months ahead; otherwise, 2-4 weeks is sufficient.

What type of car should I choose for traveling in Taiwan?

For cities and western plains, compact or sedan cars are best due to narrow roads and parking spots. For mountainous or east coast areas, SUVs are better for power and clearance. For groups, 7-seater minivans are good but limited in availability.

Are rental cars in Taiwan mostly automatic or manual?

Almost all rental cars in Taiwan are automatic (over 99%). You will rarely encounter manual transmission unless you specifically request it.

Can I pick up a rental car directly at Taoyuan International Airport?

Yes. Major rental companies have counters at or near Taoyuan Airport. Booking through QEEQ allows you to select the airport as your pick-up location for maximum convenience.

What details should I check when booking on QEEQ?

Check what’s included in the price (taxes, basic insurance), insurance options and deductibles, mileage limits (most are unlimited), and real user reviews for both car and rental company.

Can I rent a car in Taipei and return it in Kaohsiung?

Yes, this is called a one-way rental. Most major companies allow this, but a fee applies depending on the distance between locations. It's ideal for round-island trips.

Will my rental car come with a GPS navigation device?

Some companies offer GPS for an extra fee, but using Google Maps on your smartphone is more recommended for up-to-date maps and live traffic. Buy a local SIM card for unlimited data.

What basic equipment will my rental car have?

Cars generally come with air conditioning, radio, and a USB or 12V outlet for charging devices. Newer models may support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Child seats must be pre-booked and paid for separately.

What’s the difference between local rental companies (e.g., Hotai, Carplus) and international brands?

International brands offer standardized processes and loyalty programs. Local leaders like Hotai and Carplus have more locations, newer vehicles, and options tailored to local needs. QEEQ lets you compare both easily.

Is driving orientation in Taiwan the same as in Canada?

Yes, both countries are left-hand drive (steering wheel on the left, driving on the right side of the road). There’s no adjustment needed. The main difference is the large number of scooters in Taiwan.

What should I know about scooters in Taiwan?

Scooters are everywhere. They often weave between cars, especially at red lights. Always check your right blind spot before turning right, maintain safe distances, and stay calm—they’re agile but vulnerable.

What are the typical speed limits in Taiwan?

Speed limits are clearly posted in km/h: 100–110 km/h on freeways, 60–80 km/h on highways, and 40–50 km/h in urban areas. Speed cameras are common, so always obey posted limits.

How are highway tolls collected in Taiwan? Do I need cash?

Taiwan uses an all-electronic ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) system. Your rental car will have an eTag. Tolls are calculated automatically and settled with the rental company at return. No cash is needed for tolls.

Can I turn right on red in Taiwan?

Generally, no. Unlike many parts of Canada, right turn on red is prohibited unless there is a green arrow or a specific sign allowing it (rare). Always stop and wait for the green light.

What is the box marked for scooters at intersections?

It’s a 'Scooter Waiting Box.' At red lights, scooters move to this area to start ahead at green. Cars must stop behind this box and never occupy it.

How do I handle city parking, and what do curb colors mean?

Red line: no parking anytime. Yellow: temporary parking only (usually limited to 3 minutes with the driver inside), sometimes allowed at night—check signs. White: legal parking. In paid zones, you’ll get a payment slip on your windshield.

How do I pay for a parking ticket left on my windshield?

Take the slip to any convenience store (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, OK Mart, Hi-Life) and pay at the counter in cash. They will scan the barcode for payment.

Are gas stations easy to find, and what fuel do I use?

Gas stations are widespread. Taiwan offers 92, 95, and 98 octane unleaded. Rental companies will specify the correct type (usually 95). Attendants fill your tank—just say '95 full' (jiǔ wǔ jiā mǎn).

Do road signs in Taiwan have English?

Most major roads, highways, and tourist spots have bilingual (Chinese/English) signs. Some small alleys or local signs may be in Chinese only. Google Maps is recommended for English navigation.

What should I watch out for when driving in the mountains?

Mountain roads are narrow and winding; drive slowly. Honk briefly at blind corners. Watch for falling rock warnings, especially after rain or typhoons. Uphill traffic usually has right of way on narrow stretches.

How are traffic tickets handled for rentals in Taiwan?

Tickets go to the car owner (rental company). The company pays the fine, then charges your credit card or deposit, often adding an administrative fee.

Can I use my phone for navigation while driving?

Yes, but your phone must be in a fixed mount. Handheld phone use (calls, texts, navigation) is illegal and subject to fines. Bring a phone holder.

What is 'average speed camera' or 'section speed enforcement'?

'Section speed enforcement' measures your average speed over a road segment, not just at a single point. You must stay within the speed limit for the entire section. Google Maps often warns about these zones.

How do I navigate roundabouts in Taiwan?

In roundabouts, vehicles already inside have right of way. Yield when entering, and use turn signals to indicate your exit.

What is typically included in basic rental car insurance? Is it enough?

Basic insurance covers compulsory liability (for injuries to others), theft protection, and collision damage waiver (CDW), but often with a high deductible. It may not cover property damage to others or your own car.

What is a 'deductible'? Should I buy extra insurance?

A deductible is the maximum amount you pay out-of-pocket in case of damage or theft. Extra insurance (Super CDW or Full Protection) is strongly recommended to reduce your deductible to zero.

Does my Canadian credit card’s rental insurance cover Taiwan?

Many credit card insurances exclude certain countries, sometimes including Taiwan. Call your card provider to confirm Taiwan is covered, and remember they usually don’t cover third-party liability. Buying local insurance is safest.

What is the rental deposit, and how much is it?

A security deposit is a hold on your credit card to cover potential costs like fines, tolls, or damage. It ranges from NT$8,000 to NT$30,000 depending on the car and company. The hold is released 7–30 business days after return.

Can I use a debit card or cash for payment and deposit?

Generally, no. A credit card in the main driver’s name is required for both payment and deposit. Ensure your card has enough limit.

What are some potential extra fees to watch for?

Watch for young driver surcharges (under 25), additional driver fees, one-way rental fees, GPS/child seat rentals, after-hours pick-up/drop-off, and administrative fees for fines.

What is the current price of gasoline in Taiwan?

As of 2024, 95 unleaded gasoline is about NT$31–33 per liter (roughly CAD 1.30–1.40). Gasoline is slightly more expensive than Canada, but Taiwan's small size keeps total fuel costs reasonable.

How is ETC (toll) payment settled at car return?

The rental staff check your ETC use and provide a statement. You pay the tolls by cash or credit card on the spot. The process is transparent and straightforward.

Am I responsible for normal wear and tear on the car?

No. The rental company covers normal wear such as tire and brake usage. You are responsible only for damage from accidents or negligence.

If I return the car early, will I get a refund for unused days?

It depends on your booking terms. Most prepaid or special rates are non-refundable. Standard bookings may charge a penalty or recalculate the rate. It’s best to stick to your planned rental period.

What should I do if I have a traffic accident?

Stay calm and ensure everyone's safety. Turn on hazard lights, call 110 (police), and wait for an accident report. If anyone is injured, call 119 (ambulance). Don’t move the vehicles. Contact the rental company’s emergency number for guidance.

What if the car breaks down or has a flat tire?

Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, and place a warning triangle 50–100 meters behind the car. Call the 24-hour roadside assistance number on your rental agreement for help.

What is the standard car return procedure?

Refuel the car (keep the last gas receipt), clean the interior, inspect the vehicle with staff, settle any tolls or fines, return the keys, and collect your documents and belongings.

What happens if I’m late returning the car?

Most companies allow a 30–60 minute grace period. After that, you may be charged by the hour or even for an extra full day. Call ahead if you expect to be late.

What should I check before leaving the rental office after return?

Check your final receipt for accuracy, confirm the deposit release timeline, and make sure you have all your personal belongings (phone, sunglasses, passport, etc.).

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Taiwan for Canadian Travelers

Traveling to Taiwan and exploring its diverse landscapes by car is an adventure worth experiencing. Canadian travelers often wonder:

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Taiwan?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Canadian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Taiwan?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Taiwan?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between Canadian and Taiwanese Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Traveling to Taiwan and exploring its diverse landscapes by car is an adventure worth experiencing.
Canadian travelers often wonder: