VERIFIED REVIEWS
Frequently Asked Questions
What does my Hola Car Rentals booking with Avis in the United Kingdom include that other companies don't offer?
Hola Car Rentals is the only premium partner of the leading car rental companies in the United Kingdom, including Avis, giving you exclusive access to our All Inclusive+ rate. This rate offers additional benefits that no other company can match:
- Full vehicle coverage with no deductible (applies only to certain rates and itineraries)
- Toll cashback: recover up to 5% of the reservation's total value for toll charges incurred during your rental period
- Premium travel medical assistance, covering up to GBP 100,000 for a maximum of 5 passengers in case of medical emergency, excluding pre-existing conditions
- No Extra Charges© guarantee: if the counter charges you for something not listed on your confirmation and not an optional add-on you accepted, Hola Car Rentals will work to remove or reimburse the charge after verification
All of this at no extra cost, guaranteeing you a unique Avis rental experience with full protection and peace of mind throughout your trip in the United Kingdom.
Will I face unexpected charges at the Avis counter in the United Kingdom when I book through Hola Car Rentals?
No. With Hola Car Rentals, all costs and charges for your Avis booking in the United Kingdom are clearly shown at the time of reservation and in your confirmation email, so you know exactly what you are paying before you arrive at the Avis counter.
On top of that, every Hola Car Rentals booking includes the No Extra Charges© guarantee. This is a pricing guarantee (not insurance) that protects you if the Avis counter in the United Kingdom charges you for something that was not listed on your confirmation and was not an optional add-on you accepted. If that happens, Hola Car Rentals will work with Avis to remove or reimburse the charge after verification.
The only costs outside this guarantee are:
- Optional add-ons you choose at the counter (GPS, child seats, prepaid fuel)
- Usage-based charges (tolls, fuel shortfall, traffic fines)
What documents do I need to pick up my Avis rental car in the United Kingdom?
To collect your Avis rental car in the United Kingdom, you must bring all of the following physical documents to the counter. Digital copies are not accepted.
- Your original, unexpired driver's license in the main driver's name
- A major credit card with the driver's name printed on the card (debit and prepaid cards are not accepted for the security deposit)
- Your passport or valid government-issued photo ID
- Your booking confirmation or printed voucher
- Round-trip flight or cruise tickets if you are visiting from abroad
Regarding your driver's license: many visitors can drive in Great Britain on a full, valid foreign license for up to 12 months, depending on your country of origin and residency status. However, if your license uses a non-Latin alphabet (for example, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, or Cyrillic), you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a translation. The IDP is not a standalone document and must be presented alongside your original license. Obtain your IDP in your home country before traveling, as it cannot be issued abroad.
At the Avis counter, confirm that all named drivers are added to the rental agreement, and review the contract carefully before signing.
Does Avis require a credit card for the security deposit in the United Kingdom?
Yes, Avis requires a physical major credit card in the main driver's name to place a security deposit hold when you pick up your rental car in the United Kingdom.
The hold is a temporary authorization, not a charge, and reduces your available credit until it is released after you return the vehicle. Typical hold amounts for standard cars at Avis locations in the United Kingdom are approximately GBP 300 to GBP 400, though the exact amount can vary by location, vehicle class, and season.
- The card must be a major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, etc.) with the driver's name printed on it
- Debit cards, prepaid cards, and virtual or single-use card numbers are not accepted for the deposit
- The card must belong to the main driver, not a third party
- Ensure your card is enabled for international in-person transactions and that you have sufficient available credit
After you return the vehicle and the Avis contract closes, the hold is released. Your bank or card issuer controls how quickly it reappears on your available balance, which can take up to 15 business days. Bringing a backup credit card in your name is always a good precaution.
Are there toll roads in the United Kingdom and how do they work for Avis renters?
Yes, the United Kingdom has toll roads, though they are less widespread than in some other countries. As an Avis renter in the United Kingdom, you are responsible for paying all tolls you incur during your rental.
The main toll roads and crossings you may encounter include:
- M6 Toll: a 26-mile motorway in the West Midlands; a car driving all three zones pays approximately GBP 10.30, or GBP 8.30 for two zones
- Mersey Tunnels (Queensway and Kingsway) and the Mersey Gateway crossing
- Cleddau Bridge, Dunham Bridge, and Itchen Bridge
Payment methods vary by location. Some toll points accept cash or card at a booth, while others require advance payment or online settlement. Not all accept cash, so check the specific operator's website before your journey.
Unlike the United States, the United Kingdom does not have a universal transponder program offered through Avis or other rental companies. You pay tolls directly at the point of collection or online.
In addition to toll roads, if you drive into central London you may be subject to the London Congestion Charge (approximately GBP 15 per day, Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm) and potentially the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Most Avis fleet vehicles in the United Kingdom comply with ULEZ standards, but always confirm at the counter.
Can I get cashback on tolls paid during my Avis rental in the United Kingdom?
Yes, all bookings made through Hola Car Rentals include Tolls Cashback, which lets you recover up to 5% of your total booking value for tolls paid during your Avis rental in the United Kingdom.
This benefit is especially useful in the United Kingdom, where you may encounter tolls on the M6 Toll motorway, Mersey crossings, or other toll bridges, and where there is no rental-company transponder program to bundle costs. You pay tolls as you go and then claim reimbursement afterward.
To claim your Tolls Cashback:
- Email [email protected] within 30 days of returning your Avis vehicle
- Use the subject line: Tolls Cashback - HOLA followed by your confirmation number
- Attach your Hola Car Rentals booking confirmation, your signed Avis rental agreement, and a receipt or statement showing the toll charges paid
- Include your full name, travel dates, and the last 4 digits of the card used for your booking
The refund is calculated as the lesser of the actual tolls paid or 5% of your booking total. For example, if your booking total is US$500, the maximum cashback is US$25. Refunds are issued to your original payment method within 7 to 10 business days after approval. Late submissions received after 30 days are not accepted.
How does the fuel policy work for Avis rentals in the United Kingdom?
Avis rentals in the United Kingdom operate on a Full-to-Full fuel policy. You receive the vehicle with a full tank and must return it full to avoid additional charges.
Here is what to do at each stage of your rental:
- At pickup: check the fuel gauge with the Avis agent and confirm the starting level is recorded on your rental agreement. Take a photo of the dashboard showing the gauge and odometer
- During the rental: use the correct fuel type (petrol or diesel) as indicated in the vehicle. Using the wrong fuel is not covered by the fuel policy and may result in significant charges
- Before return: refuel within approximately 10 miles or 15 km of the Avis return location so the gauge does not drop below full on the way back. Keep your fuel receipt showing the date, time, and station address
If you return the Avis vehicle in the United Kingdom with less than a full tank, you may be charged for the fuel shortfall at the partner's refueling rate, which is typically higher than the pump price, plus an administrative service fee. Returning the car full is always the most cost-effective option.
If the tank was not full at pickup, the Avis agent should note the exact starting level on the agreement. In that case, you only need to return it at that same recorded level.
What is the London Congestion Charge and does it affect my Avis rental in the United Kingdom?
Yes, the London Congestion Charge can affect your Avis rental in the United Kingdom if you drive into the central London charging zone.
The charge applies to vehicles entering the central zone Monday to Friday between 7am and 6pm, and costs approximately GBP 15 per day. Unlike a traditional toll road, there are no booths. The zone is enforced by cameras that read number plates, and payment must be made online or by phone on the day of travel or the following day.
As an Avis renter in the United Kingdom, you are responsible for paying this charge yourself. If you do not pay and the charge is linked to the Avis plate, the rental company may bill the amount to your credit card along with an administrative processing fee.
Additional zones to be aware of in the United Kingdom include:
- London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): applies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across a wider area of London. Most modern Avis fleet vehicles comply, but confirm at the counter
- Clean Air Zones (CAZ) in other UK cities such as Birmingham and Bath: non-compliant vehicles may be charged a daily fee
- Oxford Zero Emission Zone: a smaller zone with its own rules
Always check which zones apply to your planned route before driving in any major United Kingdom city with your Avis rental.
Can I add an additional driver to my Avis rental in the United Kingdom?
Yes, you can add an additional driver to your Avis rental in the United Kingdom, either during the booking process or at the Avis counter when you collect the vehicle.
The additional driver must be present at pickup and bring their own valid driver's license. If their license uses a non-Latin alphabet, they will also need an International Driving Permit. Both the main driver and the additional driver must sign the rental agreement before the additional driver is authorized to operate the vehicle.
Regarding fees for Avis in the United Kingdom:
- If your booking confirmation states that an additional driver is included, no extra fee applies for the first additional driver
- If it is not included, Avis charges approximately US$13 per rental day plus taxes, with a maximum cap of US$65 plus taxes
- For Avis specifically, additional drivers should be at least 25 years old at the time of pickup; younger drivers may face a surcharge or be declined depending on the vehicle class
Only drivers listed on the Avis rental agreement are covered by the rental protections such as CDW/LDW and liability coverage. Anyone who drives the vehicle without being named on the contract may void those protections entirely. If you need to add a driver after pickup, visit the nearest Avis branch with the driver present.
What insurance coverage is included with an Avis rental in the United Kingdom?
When renting with Avis in the United Kingdom, the coverage included in your booking depends on the rate plan you selected. Here is a breakdown of the main protections relevant to the United Kingdom:
- Third-Party Liability: by law, all rental vehicles in the United Kingdom must carry third-party liability insurance. This is included in the Avis rental price and covers bodily injury and property damage you may cause to other people while driving
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): this reduces your financial liability for damage to the Avis rental vehicle itself. A deductible or excess may apply unless your confirmation explicitly states zero deductible
CDW/LDW does not cover:
- Damage to third parties (that is handled by the included liability coverage)
- Your own personal injuries or belongings
- Prohibited use such as off-road driving, driving under the influence, or use by an unnamed driver
- Certain components such as tires, undercarriage, or roof unless specifically included
Check your Hola Car Rentals booking confirmation carefully to see exactly which protections are listed and whether a deductible applies. If you want to reduce or eliminate the deductible on your Avis rental in the United Kingdom, a Super CDW option may be available at the counter or through your rate plan.
Does travel assistance come with my Avis booking in the United Kingdom?
Yes, most Hola Car Rentals bookings, including those for Avis rentals in the United Kingdom, include travel assistance coverage provided by Terrawind Global Protection. This benefit is particularly valuable in the United Kingdom, where you may be driving on unfamiliar roads, motorways such as the M6, or in remote areas of Scotland or Wales far from major cities.
The travel assistance typically covers:
- Medical coverage for up to 5 passengers for accidents and non-pre-existing illnesses
- Legal assistance in the event of a road accident
- Compensation for baggage lost by the airline
- Flight cancellation insurance
Important eligibility note: this benefit applies only to non-North American customers. Residents of the United States or Canada do not qualify for this coverage.
If you need assistance during your Avis rental in the United Kingdom, contact Terrawind 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:
- Phone: +1 888 980 9992 (toll-free or collect)
- WhatsApp: +1 208 910 1001
- Email: [email protected]
When you call, have your full name, your Hola Car Rentals confirmation number (for example, HOLA1000000), your current location, and a brief description of the situation ready. Always contact assistance before incurring expenses, as some reimbursements require prior authorization.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent an Avis car in the United Kingdom?
Not always, but it depends on your license. For most Avis rentals in the United Kingdom, a full, valid foreign driver's license is sufficient for visitors driving for up to 12 months, depending on your country of origin and residency status.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in the United Kingdom if your driver's license uses a non-Latin alphabet, such as:
- Arabic script
- Chinese characters
- Japanese characters
- Cyrillic (Russian) script
In these cases, the IDP serves as a certified translation and must be carried alongside your original license at all times. The IDP is not a standalone document and will not be accepted without the original license.
An IDP may also be advisable if your license is a paper format (rather than a photocard) or if you hold a license from certain territories. Always check the latest official guidance for your specific nationality before traveling to the United Kingdom.
Obtain your IDP in your home country before departure. It cannot be issued abroad. When you arrive at the Avis counter in the United Kingdom, present your original license and IDP together, along with your passport and booking confirmation.
Is there a young driver surcharge for Avis rentals in the United Kingdom?
Yes, drivers under 25 years old are subject to a young driver surcharge when renting with Avis in the United Kingdom. This fee is charged per day and is paid at the Avis counter at the time of pickup, not as part of your prepaid booking total.
Age restrictions and surcharge amounts can vary depending on the vehicle class. Certain premium or specialty vehicles within the Avis fleet in the United Kingdom may not be available to drivers under 25 at all, regardless of the surcharge.
For additional drivers who are under 25, the same young driver surcharge rules apply. Avis in the United Kingdom generally requires additional drivers to be at least 25 years old; younger additional drivers may face a surcharge or may be declined depending on the specific location and vehicle.
To avoid surprises at the counter:
- Confirm the young driver surcharge amount directly with the Avis location in the United Kingdom before pickup
- Ensure you have sufficient available credit on your card to cover both the security deposit hold and any surcharges due at the counter
- Check your booking confirmation for any age-related conditions already disclosed
The surcharge is separate from the base rental rate and is not covered by any prepaid rate plan.
Can I pick up my Avis car at one location and return it at a different city in the United Kingdom?
Yes, one-way rentals are available with Avis in the United Kingdom, allowing you to pick up at one location and return at a different city or airport. However, a drop-off fee may apply depending on the route, vehicle class, and season.
Here is how it works when booking through Hola Car Rentals:
- During the booking process, select your different pickup and return locations. If a drop-off fee applies to your Avis route in the United Kingdom, it will be displayed on the rate details page under the section labeled as payable at destination
- The fee is not prepaid and cannot be covered by the No Extra Charges© guarantee, as it is a disclosed charge
- Same-city airport to downtown returns often carry no drop-off fee, while longer routes between different cities or regions typically do
Cross-border one-way rentals, for example returning an Avis vehicle outside the United Kingdom in another country, may be restricted or require advance authorization. Always confirm cross-border permissions with Avis before your trip, as driving outside the United Kingdom without authorization can void your rental protections.
If you need to change your return location after booking, be aware that this may reprice the entire rental and recalculate any applicable drop-off fee.
Where can I find the Avis counter at airports in the United Kingdom?
Avis operates counters at major airports across the United Kingdom, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Southampton, and Belfast City Airport, among others.
At most United Kingdom airports, the Avis counter is located either inside the arrivals terminal or in a consolidated rental car area. Follow the car rental signs after clearing customs and baggage claim. At larger airports such as Heathrow, rental desks may be in a dedicated car rental zone within or adjacent to the terminal building.
To find your specific Avis counter in the United Kingdom:
- Check your booking confirmation for the exact pickup address or terminal details provided at the time of booking
- On arrival, follow airport signage for car rental or car hire, which will direct you to either the terminal counter or a shuttle bus stop for off-terminal rental facilities
- If the Avis desk is served by a shuttle, go to the marked shuttle stop outside the arrivals area and board the bus displaying the Avis or rental car branding
- At smaller or franchise-operated locations, the Avis desk may share space with another brand's counter; ask airport staff or use the courtesy phone if you cannot locate it
Avis also operates city-center locations in major United Kingdom cities beyond airports, so confirm your pickup address matches your booking confirmation before traveling to the counter.
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