This guide is designed to answer these questions and more, ensuring your car rental experience is both enjoyable and hassle-free. By the end, you'll find helpful tips and a summary chart for quick reference.
Yes, French travelers can rent and drive cars in Reunion Island with a valid passport and driving licence, subject to minimum age and licence holding-period requirements.
Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for the main driver and any additional drivers.
Driving licence:
The main driver and any additional drivers must present a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1–3 years (exact requirement depends on the vehicle/category booked). Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Accepted cards:
A physical credit card in the full name of the main driver is required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, and American Express (card acceptance and features may vary by offer; some offers accept only Visa/MasterCard). An e‑voucher or printed voucher may be required at pick‑up, depending on the specific offer.
Age requirements:
Depending on vehicle/category, the minimum driving age ranges between 18 and 26, with maximum age between 80 and 99. In some offers, drivers from 18–23 years old incur a young driver surcharge of about US$ 19.66 per day; in others, drivers 21–23 or 21–25 years old pay about US$ 11.79 per day. Older drivers within the stated maximum age can rent without a young driver fee.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Discover trusted car rental options for travelers from FR visiting RE, featuring both global chains and local brands suited to diverse needs.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
17Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
Locations:
21Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
Locations:
23Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
Locations:
13Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business professionals
Car Go
Locations:
2Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals
ITC TROPICAR
Locations:
8Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Families and budget-conscious travelers
MULTIAUTO
Locations:
2Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
JUMBO CAR RéUNION
Locations:
4Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly options in RéunionChoosing the right rental car can make your journey 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.
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
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 French drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
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 French insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
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
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 miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
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
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Paris, Lyon, MarseilleMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-countryConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Nice, Cannes, Monaco
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.
You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in your destination, but additional coverage is recommended for peace of mind. Make sure to review what is included in your rental agreement and consider enhancing your protection.
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Reunion Island. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Make your car rental experience seamless and cost-effective. These tips are tailored for French travelers heading to the USA, ensuring you save money while enjoying convenience.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Réunion.
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.
While France and Réunion share many traffic rules, some distinctions exist due to Réunion being an overseas region with unique environmental and geographic conditions.
Speed Limits
Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural areas: 80 km/h, highways: 110 km/h
Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural areas: 90 km/h, highways: 130 km/h
Traffic Signage
Signs may include Creole translations alongside French
Signs are exclusively in French
Road Conditions
Narrow mountain roads and weather disruptions are common
Roads are generally well-maintained and less affected by such environmental factors
Hazard Awareness
Frequent rockfalls and landslides in certain areas
Minimal natural road hazards
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free systems are mandatory
Hands-free systems are mandatory
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Vehicle Equipment
Carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle
Carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle
