Do I really need to rent a car in French Polynesia?
It depends on the island and your travel style. Renting a car is highly recommended on Tahiti and Moorea, where public transport is limited and sights are spread out. On Bora Bora, a car is rarely necessary as most tourists stay on private motus (islets) and use water taxis.
Which islands require a rental car most, and which do not?
Tahiti and Moorea are the islands where renting a car is most beneficial due to their size and dispersed attractions. Bora Bora is small and most visitors use bikes, golf carts, or guided tours instead of cars. Islands like Huahine or Raiatea also benefit from car rentals for exploring local culture and scenery.
How far in advance should I book my rental car? What about peak season?
It's strongly advised to book at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak season (June-August and Christmas holidays). Cars, especially automatics and economy models, sell out fast and prices rise sharply in high demand periods.
Where should I book my rental car to get the best price and security?
For US travelers, QEEQ is the recommended platform. QEEQ offers price lock (automatic rebooking if the price drops), competitive rates, comprehensive insurance options, free membership perks, and the ability to compare multiple suppliers easily.
What type of car should I rent: economy, convertible, or SUV?
An economy or compact car is usually the best choice for most travelers, as roads are narrow and parking is limited. Convertibles may seem appealing, but intense tropical sun and sudden rain make them impractical. SUVs are only necessary if you plan to access remote mountain roads.
Are manual or automatic cars more common? What's the price difference?
Manual transmission cars are more common and cheaper. Automatics are in high demand and may cost 20%-40% more. If you require an automatic, book early through QEEQ.
Do rental cars come with unlimited mileage?
Yes, most rentals in French Polynesia include unlimited mileage, which is ideal for island road trips. Always confirm this in the rental terms when booking.
Can I rent a child safety seat for my kids?
Yes, child seats or booster seats are usually available as add-ons during the booking process on QEEQ. Availability is limited, so reserve them when you book your car.
Where are most rental car offices located?
Main rental offices are at Faa'a International Airport (PPT), downtown Papeete, Moorea ferry terminals, and some large hotels, with vehicle delivery sometimes available.
Should I expect a new car? What is the general condition of rental vehicles?
Due to the island environment (salt, humidity), cars age faster than in the US. Don't expect a brand new car; minor scratches or wear are normal. Carefully record existing damage when picking up your car.
Can I drive in French Polynesia with my US driver's license?
Yes, a valid US state driver's license with a photo is sufficient for renting and driving in French Polynesia, typically for up to one year.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
It's not legally required but highly recommended. The IDP is an official translation and can help avoid language issues with police or rental companies. You can get one from AAA or AATA in the US.
Is there a minimum age for renting a car? Are there extra fees for drivers under 25?
Most companies require drivers to be 21 or 23 and have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 usually pay a daily Young Driver Surcharge.
What documents do I need to present when picking up the rental car?
You need your valid US driver's license (and preferably the IDP), your passport for identification, and a credit card in the primary driver's name for payment and deposit.
What are the requirements for additional drivers?
Additional drivers must meet the same age and license requirements as the primary driver. They must be present at pickup and show their license and passport. There is usually an extra fee.
Does the name on my credit card need to match my driver's license?
Yes, absolutely. The credit card used for payment and deposit must be in the main driver's name and match their license and passport exactly.
Can I rent a car if my US license is about to expire?
No. Your license must be valid for the entire rental period. If it will expire during your trip, renew it before you travel.
How much does it typically cost to rent a car per day in French Polynesia?
Daily rates for a manual economy car range from $50–$80 USD. Automatics or peak season rentals can cost $80–$120 USD or more. QEEQ's price lock helps secure the best rate.
How much is the security deposit, and do companies accept cash?
Deposits range from $800–$1,500 USD, held on your credit card (not charged). Cash deposits are generally not accepted.
Can I pay with US credit cards like Amex, Visa, or Mastercard?
Yes, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. American Express is less universal but accepted at major rental locations. Debit cards are usually not accepted for deposits.
What is the price of gasoline? What units are used, and are gas stations easy to find?
Gasoline is priced per liter in XPF (Pacific Franc). Prices are 2–2.5 times higher than in the US, roughly $8–$10 per gallon. Gas stations are common on main roads but scarce in remote areas; fill up when half empty.
What basic insurance is included in the rental quote? What are CDW and TP?
Most rentals include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), and third-party liability insurance. CDW and TP limit your responsibility to a deductible (usually $1,000–$2,500 USD).
Should I buy full insurance from the rental company?
Full insurance sold at the counter is expensive. A better option is to add full refund insurance when booking through QEEQ, which is more affordable and reimburses deductibles if an incident occurs.
Does my US credit card (e.g., Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum) provide rental insurance in French Polynesia?
Some premium US credit cards offer rental car insurance (usually CDW), but coverage varies. Contact your card provider to confirm if coverage applies in French Polynesia and whether it is primary or secondary.
What is third-party liability insurance? Is the included amount sufficient?
Third-party liability covers injury or property damage to others. The legally required minimum is included, but it may be low. Consider buying supplemental liability insurance if available, or check your travel insurance.
Are there any hidden fees in the rental process?
Yes, potential extras include airport surcharges, VAT, environmental fees, after-hours service charges, and minor road taxes. Always review the rental breakdown to avoid surprises.
What happens if I return the car without a full tank?
You'll be charged a refueling fee at a rate much higher than local gas prices. Follow the full-to-full policy: refill the tank before returning the car.
Will I be charged in US dollars or local currency?
Rentals are charged in XPF (Pacific Franc). Your credit card will convert the amount, possibly adding a foreign transaction fee unless your card waives it.
How much does it cost to add an extra driver?
Additional drivers usually cost $5–$15 USD per day. Some promotions include one free extra driver, which you can filter for on QEEQ.
What are the main pickup locations for rental cars?
Faa'a International Airport (PPT) is the most convenient pickup spot, with nearly all suppliers on site. Other popular locations include the Papeete ferry terminal and large resort hotels.
What should I check when picking up my rental car?
Thoroughly photograph and video the car's exterior and interior, noting all scratches, dents, and damage. Ensure the contract diagram marks all defects. Check tire condition, fuel level, odometer, and that all equipment works.
Can I pick up a car if my flight arrives late at night?
Yes, if you pre-book and provide your flight number in advance. An after-hours fee may apply. Without a reservation, counters may be closed late at night.
Can I take my rental car on the ferry between Tahiti and Moorea?
Usually yes, but confirm with the rental company before booking. Some allow it freely, others require extra insurance or prohibit it. Ferries like Aremiti and Terevau accommodate cars.
How does the car return process work? How much time should I allow?
Return your car to the designated lot, where staff will inspect for damage and check the fuel level. Allow at least 30–45 minutes before your flight, especially at busy airports.
Can I get a refund if I return the car early?
Usually not. Rental contracts are for the booked period and early returns generally do not result in a refund.
Do people drive on the left or right in French Polynesia?
They drive on the right-hand side, with the steering wheel on the left, just like in the US.
Are local traffic rules and signs different from the US?
Most signs are international and easy to understand. The biggest difference is the frequent use of roundabouts, where cars inside have the right of way. There is no 'right turn on red' rule.
What are the road conditions like on main islands? Are there highways?
There are no US-style highways. Main roads are two-lane coastal routes in good condition but can be narrow, winding, and occasionally bumpy. Drive slowly and enjoy the scenery.
What is it like to drive and park in Papeete?
Traffic can be heavy and parking scarce, especially downtown. Use paid lots or park farther out and walk to the city center.
What are local driving habits? Anything to watch for?
Locals drive relaxed, but watch out for scooters weaving through traffic and drivers stopping suddenly to talk to pedestrians. Keep a safe following distance.
What are typical speed limits? Are speeding fines strict?
Speed limits are in km/h—usually 50 km/h (30 mph) in towns and 80–90 km/h (50–55 mph) on main roads. Police use radar and fines are steep, so obey posted limits.
Is smartphone navigation like Google Maps reliable?
Yes, Google Maps works well on main roads, but cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Download offline maps before your trip.
Are there animals on the road?
Yes, stray dogs and chickens are common, especially in villages and rural areas. Drive cautiously, especially around bends.
Is night driving safe? Are roads well-lit?
Avoid long drives at night. Outside main towns, roads often lack streetlights and are very dark. Combined with narrow roads and animals, this can be risky.
How do I handle roundabouts?
Slow down, yield to vehicles already in the roundabout, and enter only when clear. Signal right when exiting.
How long does it take to drive around Moorea?
The Moorea ring road is about 37 miles (60 km) and takes 1.5–2 hours without stops. To enjoy the sights, allow a full day for stops at viewpoints, beaches, and local attractions.
Why do most people advise against renting a car on Bora Bora? What are the alternatives?
Most resorts are on private motus, separated from the main island. Water taxis are the primary transport. The main island is small and best explored by bike, e-vehicle, or guided 4x4 tour.
Is renting a buggy or scooter a good alternative? What license is needed?
Renting a buggy or scooter is fun, especially on Moorea. For scooters under 50cc, a standard US driver's license usually suffices. For larger engines or UTVs, requirements may vary; always check with the rental company.
What should I do if my rental car breaks down or I have an accident?
Stay calm and move the car to safety. For injuries, call 15 (medical) or 17 (police). Exchange information, take photos, and notify your rental company using the emergency contact provided.
Can I rent a car on one island and return it on another?
Almost never. Rentals are based on a same-island pickup and return policy. If you need a car on Tahiti and Moorea, rent separately on each island.
