Renting a Car in Korea: Booking, Pick-up and Damage-Waiver Checklist

WeBring ·

Before booking a rental car in Korea, check driver eligibility, damage-waiver terms and return conditions—not just the daily rate. This checklist summarises booking and pick-up advice from the WeBring blog. Company policies vary; the LOTTE rent-a-car details below were checked against its official FAQ.

Before booking

  • Confirm the branch, vehicle, driver requirements, documents and payment method. LOTTE's guidance for customers using an International Driving Permit requires a valid passport, the original IDP and a debit or credit card. Ask the branch whether your documents qualify.
  • If several people will drive, ask about additional-driver registration. LOTTE permits registration at pick-up, and the additional driver must meet its rental requirements.

Check what CDW actually covers

Liability and other basic insurance cover are different from protection for the rented vehicle itself. LOTTE's FAQ lists Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) as an extra charge and identifies exclusions such as tyre and interior damage. Check the deductible, loss-of-use charges and exclusions in your agreement. Do not assume Jeju and mainland terms are identical.

At pick-up and return

  • Check existing damage with staff. Photograph the bodywork, wheels, glass and interior, and keep the inspection record. Take comparable photos at return.
  • Save your destination's Korean address and check the navigation language before leaving. LOTTE notes that some Jeju vehicles may not have English GPS.
  • Confirm the fuel level, return branch and time, and toll-payment arrangements. LOTTE's FAQ requires the same fuel level at return as at pick-up. Contact the branch before your scheduled return time if you need an extension.

This is not a complete guide to licence recognition or road law. Confirm eligibility and charges with your chosen branch and the current rental agreement.


Read the original WeBring rental-car guide in Korean →

Sources: WeBring blog guide, LOTTE rent-a-car official FAQ

Last verified: 2026-11-11

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