Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend booking 3+ months in advance for peak seasons (July-August and Christmas/New Year), 1-2 months for shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October), and at least 2-3 weeks for low season. Booking early ensures better vehicle selection and lower prices, especially for compare?transmission=automatic" class="text-ocean-blue hover:underline">automatic transmission vehicles which are limited on the island.

Most international companies require a credit card for the security deposit. However, several local Madeiran companies accept debit cards or cash deposits. If you don't have a credit card, look for local companies like Madeira Rent or Autorentacar that offer more flexible payment options.

Most companies offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before pickup. Modification policies vary by company, but changes to dates or vehicle type are usually possible subject to availability. Always check the specific terms and conditions when booking, as policies can vary significantly between companies.

Most companies have a minimum rental period of 24 hours (1 day). Some may offer hourly rentals, but these are less common and often not cost-effective. For the best rates, rentals of 3+ days are typically recommended.

You'll need a valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), passport or ID card, and typically a credit card in the main driver's name. International visitors from non-EU countries may need an International Driving Permit alongside their national license.

EU license holders do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Non-EU license holders should have an IDP alongside their national license, especially if their license is not in the Roman alphabet. US, Canadian, Australian, and UK drivers are generally fine with just their national license, but an IDP is still recommended.

The standard minimum age is 21, but some companies require drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain vehicle categories. Drivers under 25 often pay a young driver surcharge. Maximum age restrictions may apply with some companies (typically 70-75 years), though many have no upper age limit.

Security deposits typically range from €300-€1,500 depending on the vehicle category and rental company. International companies usually block this amount on your credit card, while some local companies may offer cash deposit options. The deposit is released after the vehicle is returned undamaged.

For Madeira's mountainous terrain, we recommend at least a compact car with good engine power (90+ horsepower). Small cars may struggle on steep inclines, while SUVs offer the most comfort on mountain roads but can be challenging on narrow streets. Automatic transmission is recommended for less experienced drivers, though these vehicles are limited and should be booked well in advance.

Yes, but they are limited and in high demand. Automatic vehicles typically cost 20-30% more than manual transmission cars and should be booked well in advance, especially during summer" class="text-ocean-blue hover:underline">peak season. If an automatic transmission is essential for you, book at least 3 months ahead.

Most rental cars do not include GPS as standard. It's usually available as an add-on for €5-10 per day. Many travelers prefer using smartphone navigation apps with offline maps. If you plan to use your phone, bring a car mount and ensure you have offline maps downloaded before arrival.

Yes, child seats, booster seats, and GPS units are commonly available as add-ons. Child seats typically cost €5-10 per day with a maximum charge for the entire rental period. It's advisable to request these when booking to ensure availability. Some local companies offer child seats for free as part of promotions.

Driving in Madeira is manageable for most experienced drivers but can be challenging for novices. The island has modern highways and tunnels, but also features steep, narrow roads with sharp turns in mountainous areas. If you're comfortable with mountain driving and have experience with compare?transmission=manual" class="text-ocean-blue hover:underline">manual transmission (if renting one), you should be fine. Take it slow on unfamiliar roads and be prepared for steep inclines.

In Madeira, as in mainland Portugal, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Traffic circles (roundabouts) are common, where you give way to vehicles already on the roundabout and exit on the right.

Speed limits in Madeira are: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 100 km/h on highways (VR1). Speed limits are strictly enforced with radar traps, and fines can be substantial. Many mountain roads have lower advisory speed limits due to curves and steep gradients.

Parking can be challenging in Funchal and other popular tourist areas. In Funchal, street parking is limited and often regulated with parking meters (blue lines). Several underground parking garages are available in the city center. Most major tourist attractions have designated parking areas, though they can fill up quickly during summer" class="text-ocean-blue hover:underline">peak season. When booking accommodation, prioritize places that offer parking.

Basic rentals typically include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with excess/deductible, Third Party Liability, and sometimes Theft Protection. The excess amount (your liability in case of damage) usually ranges from €500-€1,500 depending on the vehicle category. Additional coverage to reduce or eliminate the excess is available for purchase.

We recommend considering Super CDW/Full Coverage to reduce or eliminate your liability in case of damage. This is especially important given Madeira's narrow roads and parking challenges. Glass, tire, and underbody damage are often excluded from basic coverage but included in premium packages. Check if your credit card offers rental car coverage before purchasing additional insurance.

Basic CDW typically excludes damage to tires, glass, roof, undercarriage, interior, and damage caused by negligence. Super CDW or Full Coverage packages usually include these, but policies vary by company. Always check the specific exclusions in your rental agreement.

In case of an accident: 1) Ensure safety and call emergency services if needed (112), 2) Document the scene with photos, 3) Fill out the European Accident Statement form provided with the rental car, 4) Exchange details with other parties involved, 5) Contact the rental company immediately, 6) File a police report for accidents involving injuries or disputes. Never admit fault or sign documents you don't understand.

Prices vary significantly by season, vehicle type, and rental duration. As a general guide: Economy cars range from €25-40/day in low season to €60-80/day in summer" class="text-ocean-blue hover:underline">peak season; Compact cars range from €30-50/day in low season to €70-90/day in peak season; SUVs and premium vehicles range from €50-80/day in low season to €100-150/day in peak season. Longer rental periods typically receive discounted daily rates.

Watch for these potential extra charges: Additional driver fees (€5-10/day), Young driver surcharge (for drivers under 25), One-way rental fees, Late return fees, Fuel charges (if not returning with the same fuel level), Airport/premium location surcharges, Out-of-hours pickup/dropoff fees. Local companies generally have fewer hidden fees than international chains.

Booking online in advance is almost always cheaper than walk-up rates. Online reservations typically save 30-40% compared to booking on arrival. Many companies also offer online-exclusive discounts. For the best rates, book at least 1-3 months in advance depending on the season.

There are no toll roads in Madeira. All highways, tunnels, and roads are free to use. This is different from mainland Portugal, which has an extensive toll road system.

The main pickup locations are Funchal Airport (most convenient for most visitors), Funchal city center, and some hotels (with select companies). Some companies also offer delivery to your accommodation, often for a small fee or free with longer rentals.

Most major rental companies have desks inside the airport terminal. After collecting your luggage, follow signs to the car rental area. Present your reservation, driver's license, and credit card. After completing paperwork and the vehicle inspection, you'll be directed to your car in the nearby parking area. The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes, but can be longer during peak arrival times.

One-way rentals within Madeira (e.g., pickup at airport, return in Funchal) are possible with most companies, sometimes for a small fee. One-way rentals between Madeira and Porto Santo are not typically available due to the ferry crossing.

Before driving away: 1) Check for existing damage and ensure all is documented on the rental agreement, 2) Take photos/videos of the car from all angles, including the interior, 3) Verify fuel level matches what's on the agreement, 4) Test all lights, wipers, and other controls, 5) Adjust seats and mirrors, 6) Locate important items (spare tire, jack, warning triangle), 7) Understand how to operate the specific vehicle, especially if it has features you're unfamiliar with.