FAQ's

What do I need to hire a vehicle?

We need to see all of the following documentation at the time of hire:

Driver's Licence.
A current full driver's licence held for a minimum of 12 months (endorsements permitting). If you have the new 2-part photocard licence, we must see both the paper part, which shows the endorsements and vehicle categories, as well as the card part, which contains your photograph.
Two forms of identification.
These must be recent utility bills, bank or building society statements. A passport is not acceptable as it does not contain your address.
Credit or debit card.
This will be required for the deposit and the hire charge, which will be taken at the time of hire. Please make sure there is enough credit available on your card.

How old do I have to be?

For car hire you must be aged between 23 and 70. We can currently hire cars to drivers aged 21 years and over but this is subject to our insurers so please call ahead to make sure. For 7 and 12 seaters you must be aged between 25 and 70. For light vans and commercials you must be aged between 21 and 70. However, if you want to drive a 7,500 kg GVW vehicle on an ordinary licence you must also have passed your test before January 1997. NB: The government's licensing rules may have changed since you last hired this type of vehicle so please check on the DVLA website below or contact us. www.direct.gov.uk/WhatCanYouDriveAndYourObligations

What if I'm over 71?

We can probably still hire you a vehicle, but you must be able to arrange your own fully-comprehensive insurance and bring it with you at the time of hire. To avoid disappointment, we would strongly advise you to call us well in advance for more information.

What does the price include?

The prices we show, or quote, are inclusive of VAT. There are no hidden extras and there are no extra mileage charges. Rates for all vehicles up to 7,500 kg GVW include comprehensive insurance. This is subject to an insurance excess surcharge which will be charged in the event of an accident, and which can be reduced by paying a small extra cost Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) at the time of hire.

How much is the deposit?

Deposits vary depending on the type of vehicle you wish to hire. It is advisable to call us and check before picking up the vehicle, as the deposit, plus the rental charges, are paid at the time of hire. We use your deposit to cover part of the insurance excess charge in the event of an accident. Unused deposits are credited to you when the vehicle is returned. Please note that drivers with endorsements may be subject to larger deposits.

How much is the insurance excess?

All vehicles up to 7,500 kg GVW are comprehensively insured but have an insurance excess which will vary depending on the size of the vehicle, your driving record and your age. Additional named drivers will be subject to an insurance surcharge. You are responsible for any damage or loss sustained to the vehicle and are liable to pay the insurance excess in this event. Due to fluctuations, as well as the number of variables in determining the insurance excess, it is recommended that you contact us for the latest information.

What is Collision Damage Waiver or CDW?

In the event of an insurance claim, Collision Damage Waiver - or CDW, as it is also known which in most cases halves your excess. This can be taken out with an additional payment at the time of hire. Please note, however, that this does not cover you for negligent damage to wheels and tyres or roofs of vehicles, theft of wheels and tyres including spares, or theft of audio equipment. It is only available to drivers aged 21 and over hiring vans and commercials, and for drivers aged 23 and over hiring cars and 12 seaters, and is also subject to the driver having a satisfactory driving record. The cost for this option can be advised at the time of hire.

Is the windscreen covered?
Windscreen damage is the hirer’s responsibility.

How can I pay?

By credit or debit card. All major credit and debit cards are welcome, including Visa, MasterCard, and Switch. Whole or part payment of charges may be required by credit or debit card. Outstanding payments are taken from credit or debit cards.

What if I am late returning the vehicle, or I wish to extend the hire?

It is very important that you contact us and let us know. We can then advise you of any additional charges and if required can arrange payment and insurance cover by debiting your credit or debit card. Alternatively additional charges can be covered by monies brought in by you at the time of extending the hire period.

What happens if I breakdown?

In the unlikely event of your vehicle breaking down, please note that all 1st City Van Hire vehicles come with full nationwide breakdown coverage. Details of this will be included with the documents given to you at the time of hire. It is important that you keep these with you.

What do I do when I come back?

It's easy. Just return the vehicle to one of our depots, where you will be met by someone who will check the vehicle for damage. We recommend that vehicles are returned to us with the same amount of fuel as you took it with, as any fuel we dispense will be charged for. You will be issued with a receipt to say that the vehicle has been returned in good condition and this will also indicate the additional charge you will have to pay for any fuel. Please present this at reception where your paperwork will then be quickly completed.