[Taiwan Car Rental Tutorial] Learn about car rental recommendations, necessary documents, and self-driving precautions at once!

Advantages of Self-Driving Tours in Taiwan

Traveling in Taiwan, renting a car for self-driving is definitely the top choice to enhance the quality of your trip.
Compared to public transportation, self-driving greatly increases the flexibility and freedom of your itinerary. It not only saves you from waiting for buses and walking long distances, but also allows you to stop anytime to enjoy scenic views along the way and sample local delicacies.
Over the course of your trip, the time saved on transportation alone can be enough to visit one or two additional attractions, making your journey more efficient and enriching.
In addition to saving time, self-driving is especially ideal for exploring destinations that are hard to reach by public transportation.
Places like the seaside Keelung Heping Island Park, Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf, the must-visit Yehliu Geopark for international travelers, the mountain-hidden Cingjing Farm in Nantou and Alishan in Chiayi, and even Sanxiantai in Taitung and Qixingtan in Hualien — all are perfect destinations to explore freely with a rental car.
Whether you're planning a round-the-island adventure, a weekend getaway, or a business trip, renting a car can add convenience and efficiency to your journey.
This Taiwan car rental guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from rental requirements and insurance types to step-by-step procedures and driving tips. Get fully prepared for your self-driving adventure and explore Taiwan with peace of mind!

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Common Questions Before Renting a Car in Taiwan — Explained All at Once｜Brought to You by GoodCars

Q: How old do you have to be to rent a car in Taiwan?

A: Rental requirements may vary between companies in Taiwan. At GoodCars, you can rent a standard vehicle if you meet the following conditions: you are at least 20 years old, have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year, have no outstanding fines with the Motor Vehicle Office, and have no criminal or civil records. Payment must be made using your own credit card. Please refer to the specific vehicle detail page for exact requirements.

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Q: What documents do I need to rent a car in Taiwan?

A：
✔ For Taiwanese nationals: National ID card or ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) valid for at least 6 months, and a valid driver’s license.
✔ For foreign travelers: Passport, valid International Driving Permit (IDP), original driver’s license from your home country, and one of the following: visa, ARC (Alien Resident Certificate), or proof of entry/exit.
✔ For travelers from Mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macau: Mainland China passport, a valid Hong Kong driver’s license or International Driving Permit (IDP), and one of the following: visa, ARC (Alien Resident Certificate), proof of entry/exit, or Entry Permit to Taiwan.
✔ For Japanese nationals: Passport, Japanese driver’s license, official Chinese translation of the license, and a credit card.

※ It’s very important to check the validity of your driver’s license and ensure that your International Driving Permit or its translation meets the required standards!

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Q: What types of insurance does GoodCars offer?

A: We offer a variety of insurance options to give you greater peace of mind during your self-driving journey:

Driver Injury Insurance (Basic Coverage)

Maximum coverage of up to NT$1,000,000.

Vehicle Damage Insurance (Covers Damage to the Rental Car)

Insurance does not cover incidents involving drunk driving, unexplained vehicle damage, or contract violations.

Theft Insurance (Covers Stolen Vehicle)）

Driver Injury Insurance

Passenger Accident Insurance

Third-Party Liability Insurance (Covers Damages to Others)

You can upgrade to the Advanced Insurance plan for even greater protection and lower out-of-pocket costs in the event of an accident!

Insurance coverage and benefits vary depending on the selected plan. For full details, please refer to the booking page or contact our customer service team.

Q: How much does it cost to rent a car in Taiwan?

A: Rental prices in Taiwan vary depending on the vehicle type, rental duration, and travel season. With GoodCars, selected models start from as low as NT$1,200 per day on weekdays. We also offer early bird deals, holiday discounts, and long-term rental packages from time to time—helping you start your journey at the best possible price!

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Required Documents for Renting a Car in Taiwan

Taiwanese Nationals:

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Foreign Traveler

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Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau Travelers

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Japanese Traveler

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Taiwan Car Rental Price Comparison｜Using TOYOTA Vios 1.5 as an Example (GoodCars)

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Taiwan Car Rental Insurance Guide

When traveling abroad by car, insurance is definitely something that you "hope you never have to use, but it's much more reassuring to have."
Although no one wants to encounter unexpected situations, having insurance can significantly ease the burden if something does happen, allowing you to enjoy your entire trip without letting a small accident ruin the experience.
At GoodCars, all of our compact cars come with basic insurance, including compulsory insurance and third-party liability insurance, covering essential risks.
If you want to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses in case of an incident, we also offer the optional "Advanced Insurance" package. This can lower the compensation burden for situations like vehicle damage or theft, allowing you to travel with peace of mind.
Here’s a simple breakdown of some common insurance types. Understanding them before your trip will help you travel with more peace of mind:

Compulsory Insurance

According to Taiwanese law, all vehicles on the road are required to have compulsory automobile liability insurance.
​This insurance primarily protects victims in traffic accidents, with a maximum payout of NT$2,000,000 per person.

Vehicle Damage Insurance

Vehicle Damage Insurance is designed to cover damage to the vehicle itself.​At GoodCars, if an accident occurs, the renter is responsible for the vehicle repair costs, with an excess of up to NT$50,000.
This insurance applies to accidents involving collisions with other vehicles, but does not cover business losses or 20% depreciation costs. For insurance upgrades, please contact an in-store representative.

Theft Insurance

If the rental vehicle is stolen, the renter is responsible for an excess of 10% of the vehicle's current value.
This insurance does not cover the loss of items or parts inside the vehicle, so it is recommended to properly safeguard personal belongings.

Driver Injury Insurance

This insurance covers the driver for losses caused by injury or disability resulting from a car accident, with a maximum payout of NT$1,000,000.

Passenger Insurance

Passenger insurance covers passengers (excluding the driver) in the vehicle for injuries or death resulting from an accident.
​At GoodCars, within the allowed passenger limit, each passenger is covered with a maximum payout of NT$1,000,000.

Third-Party Liability Insurance

This insurance covers the driver for damages caused to third parties (including other vehicles, pedestrians, etc.) in the event of an accident. At GoodCars, the coverage for third-party accident liability insurance is as follows:

The coverage for each person’s injury or death is NT$1,000,000.

The total coverage for injury or death in each accident is NT$2,000,000.

The maximum coverage for property damage in each accident is NT$500,000.​

In the event of a claim, the renter is responsible for an insurance deductible of NT$10,000.
*The detailed coverage is subject to the specific policy of each vehicle. The above coverage does not apply to motorcycles and trucks.

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Advanced Insurance Upgrade Plan

1. In the event of vehicle damage, the vehicle damage insurance deductible is reduced from NT$50,000 to NT$5,000, and the vehicle depreciation fee is waived.
   

2. The 10% deductible on the vehicle's current value for theft insurance is waived.​
   

3. The NT$10,000 deductible for property damage is waived.

4. The renter is responsible for business losses.
5. 
   

For detailed information, please refer to the official GoodCars website.。
Before renting a car, understanding the details and coverage of each insurance option will help you choose the most suitable protection plan, ensuring a worry-free journey.

🔍 Reminder:

All compact cars at GoodCars include compulsory insurance, third-party liability insurance, passenger insurance, driver injury insurance, theft insurance, and basic vehicle damage insurance, providing comprehensive coverage.

If you wish to reduce risks and the excess amount, it is recommended to purchase the "Advanced Insurance" plan. In the event of a claim, it will significantly reduce the amount you need to pay out of pocket, offering upgraded protection and peace of mind.

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Is there no "liability waiver" system for car rentals in Taiwan? GoodCars explains it clearly for you!

⚠️ Special Reminder ⚠️
When renting a car in Taiwan, even with insurance, there are still some items that are not covered by the compensation, with the most common being:

🚗 Business losses incurred during the vehicle repair period.

🧾 Depreciation costs incurred during vehicle repairs.

These two costs, in the event of an accident, must still be borne by the renter. It is recommended to confirm the insurance details and contract terms when renting the car to avoid disputes later.

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🛠️ How is the business loss fee calculated?

According to the standard contract terms regulated by the government, if the vehicle needs repairs due to an accident and is unable to operate, the renter is responsible for covering part of the rental fee during the downtime as "business loss compensation." The calculation method is as follows:

⛔ The business loss fee will be calculated for a maximum of 20 days.

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🔧 What is the depreciation cost for repairs?

In the event of an accident or vehicle damage, even with insurance compensation, the insurance company will not cover the vehicle's "depreciation" value. Therefore, the rental company will calculate the depreciation amount after repairs based on the extent of the damage and issue a quotation for the renter to bear.
If you have purchased our "Advanced Insurance" plan, the depreciation cost and property damage deductible will be waived, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket risk after an accident.

✅ GoodCars Reminder:

All compact cars include basic insurance, but to avoid high out-of-pocket risks, it is recommended to purchase the "Advanced Insurance" plan.
Please carefully read the contract before renting. If you have any questions regarding business loss or insurance coverage, feel free to directly inquire with the store staff to confirm the details!

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GoodCars Rental Process Guide | Complete Your Car Rental in 3 Simple Steps

You can refer to the video above or this article

✅ Step 1: Online booking for vehicles in Taiwan.

Visit the GoodCars official website or use your mobile phone for quick operations. Choose your pick-up and drop-off locations and times to view available vehicles and prices. From 5-seater cars, 7-9 seater vehicles, motorcycles, to imported cars, we offer flexible options for you!
Our website clearly displays vehicle specifications and daily rental rates. Some vehicles also offer real photos and detailed information to help you make the best choice. We recommend booking in advance, as vehicles can be in high demand during peak periods (holidays and weekends)!

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✅ Step 2: Pick up your car at the on-site store.

Please arrive at the designated store at the agreed time, and present your ID, driver’s license (or international driving permit), credit card, and booking information. The staff will verify the details and have you sign the rental agreement. It is recommended to inspect the vehicle's condition and take photos when picking up the car. This ensures your protection and makes the return process easier.
The store staff will also explain the insurance options and add-on plans (such as the Advanced Insurance plan), fuel policy, and return time. Once you confirm all the details, you can set off with peace of mind!

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✅ Step 3: Return the vehicle on time to successfully complete your rental journey.

At the end of your journey, simply return the vehicle and keys to the original store or the designated drop-off location (for one-way rentals), and check the vehicle’s condition, fuel level, and mileage. Any ETC usage or late return fees will also be settled at that time. The process is quick and transparent.
In just 3 simple steps, you can easily start a flexible and enjoyable self-driving journey in Taiwan. Don't worry if it's your first time renting a car—GoodCars staff will provide clear explanations. Feel free to take advantage of our services!

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GoodCars Car Rental | Pick-up Process Explanation

🚗 Step 1: Check-in at the counter

Upon arriving at the GoodCars store, provide your order number or booking information. The on-site staff will assist in confirming your reservation details and guide you through the car rental process.

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🪪 Step 2: Verify Document Information

Please prepare the following documents for verification by the staff:

For Taiwanese nationals: ID card, driver’s license, and personal credit card.

For foreign travelers: Passport, International Driving Permit (IDP) + home country driver’s license, and personal credit card.

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📝 Step 3: Sign the Rental Agreement

Carefully read the rental agreement, including:

Insurance coverage and deductible explanation.

Fuel policy (Full tank pick-up and return or same fuel level).

Mileage and fees for one-way rental (pick-up at one location, drop-off at another).

If anything is unclear, feel free to ask the store staff for clarification!

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🔍 Step 4: Vehicle Inspection

Conduct the vehicle inspection with the staff, ensuring the exterior and interior are free from any damage.

It is recommended to take photos or videos to document the vehicle's condition, especially any existing scratches or dents.

You can ask the store staff to explain the basic operations and features (such as reverse camera, fuel cap, etc.).

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✅ Step 5: Get Ready to Depart

Confirm that you have received:

Your identification documents and credit card.

A copy of the rental agreement.

The vehicle keys.

Get ready to depart and begin your free-spirited journey!

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GoodCars Car Rental | Return Process Explanation

⏰ Step 1: Return the Vehicle on Time

Please return the vehicle at the agreed time and location. Late returns will incur additional charges as per the contract.

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⛽ Step 2: Check Fuel Level and Mileage

Fuel level: As per the agreement, either "full tank" or "same fuel level." If insufficient, refueling and service fees will apply.

Mileage: Some vehicles have mileage limits. Exceeding the limit will incur an additional charge per kilometer (actual amount as per the contract).

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👜 Step 3: Remove Personal Belongings

Please carefully check the vehicle to ensure no valuable items are left behind, especially documents, phones, keys, etc. If the vehicle is excessively dirty, a cleaning fee may apply.

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🔁 Step 4: Vehicle Condition Check

Upon return, you will check the vehicle's condition with the staff, comparing it to the pick-up condition record to confirm if there are any new damages. If there are new damages, they will be handled according to the insurance and contract terms.

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💳 Step 5: Complete the Settlement

All fees (such as ETC, toll fees, refueling charges, late fees, etc.) will be settled on-site, and the final payment will be authorized via your credit card. If there are no additional charges, the deposit authorization will be refunded, and a receipt will be issued to complete the return process!

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Taiwan Car Rental | Important Things to Know at a Glance

🚦 Traffic Habits & Driving Style

Driving in Taiwan is quite different from driving in Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, or the United States! In addition to being a left-hand drive country (steering wheel on the left), Taiwan's streets are narrower, and with a high density of motorcycles and many alleyways, it's recommended for newcomers to drive slowly at first and get accustomed to the environment.

✅ How to Determine Right of Way?

When turning, remember: straight ahead has the highest priority, followed by left turns, and right turns last.
When entering or exiting intersections, don’t forget the principle of "secondary roads yield to main roads." The side with more lanes is usually the main road and should be given priority.

✅ Basic Driving Rules

No speeding, no drunk driving, and always wear seat belts for everyone in the car.
The fines for drunk driving are extremely high, up to NT$120,000. In addition, your driver’s license may be revoked, and even passengers can be fined.

For a breath alcohol level of 0.15 mg/l or below, the fine is above ¥500,000, and passengers may also be fined above ¥300,000.

For a breath alcohol level of 0.15 – 0.24 mg/l, the fine is above NT$19,500.

For a breath alcohol level of 0.25 – 0.39 mg/l, the fine is above NT$29,000.

✅ Things to Keep in Mind for Motorcycles

Motorcycles are everywhere in Taiwan, and they are accustomed to weaving between cars and changing lanes. It’s recommended for car drivers to maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden acceleration or deceleration, as this is the safest approach.

✅ Yield to Pedestrians

Starting from 2023, Taiwan has imposed heavy fines for "failing to yield to pedestrians." As long as there is someone on the crosswalk, you must stop and let them pass, regardless of the traffic light. Otherwise, a fine will be issued.

✅ Horn Usage Reminder

In Taiwan, "loud horn = impolite." It's recommended to use a short, gentle tap on the horn to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings or complaints!

✅ Speed Limits and Penalties

City roads: Speed limit is 50–60 km/h.
Expressways: Speed limit is 70–80 km/h.
Highways: Speed limit is 100–110 km/h.
📸 Taiwan has a high density of speed cameras, including "section speed cameras." It’s recommended to use navigation apps (such as Google Maps or Speed Camera Radar) for reminders.

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Taiwan Parking Rules

🅿️ How to Park Without Getting a Fine?

Check the parking line colors here:

White line:You may park, but make sure to park straight and close to the curb, without crossing the lines!

Yellow line:You may park briefly for up to 3 minutes to pick up or drop off passengers (without turning off the engine), but parking is prohibited during certain hours (7:00 AM - 8:00 PM). Outside of these hours, you may park overnight.

Red line:Parking is completely prohibited; no stopping for pick-up or drop-off is allowed!

🚗 Parking Direction:

You must park in the direction you are driving!

Never park in the opposite direction, as it will result in an immediate fine.

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How Well Do You Know Taiwan's Traffic Signals?

🚧 Understanding Taiwan Traffic Signals at a Glance

How to Interpret Traffic Lights
Green Light: You may go straight or turn left or right.
Red Light + Arrow: You can only turn in the direction of the arrow; other directions are not allowed.
Straight Arrow + Right Arrow: You can only go straight or turn right; left turns are prohibited.

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Paying for a parking ticket

🧾 How to Pay Parking Fees?

In some areas, if you receive a parking ticket (placed under the windshield wiper), you can easily pay it by taking it to a convenience store (7-11, FamilyMart, OK, or Hi-Life).

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Traffic Sign Overview

Here is an overview of common traffic signs and signals found on Taiwan's roads. Please follow the instructions to ensure safe travel and avoid violations or accidents.

In Taiwan, some intersections have flashing red or yellow lights. These are not broken lights or Christmas decorations; they are used to distinguish between main roads and secondary roads!
Flashing Yellow Light: This indicates that you are on a main road. You can continue driving, but you must slow down and watch for vehicles coming from the left or right. Proceed only when it is safe.
Flashing Red Light: This indicates you are coming from a secondary road. You must come to a complete stop, check for any oncoming traffic, and only proceed onto the main road when it is clear. This is one of the key points of the "yielding principle"!

👉 Remember the tip: "Flashing red means stop, flashing yellow means look."
When you see a flashing red light, you must stop. With a flashing yellow light, proceed slowly. Keep your eyes open, and you won't make a mistake!

🚫 In most areas of Taiwan, right turns on red are not allowed!

No Left Turn vs No U-turn?
No Left Turn = You cannot turn left, nor can you make a U-turn.
No U-turn = You cannot make a U-turn, but you can turn left.

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Taiwan Car Rental on Highways & Expressways/h2>

🛣 ETC Automatic Toll Collection

All rental vehicles are equipped with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) sticker. You don’t need to slow down or wait in line to pay; just drive through the toll booth.

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🚗 How are the lanes divided?

Inner lane: Overtaking lane. After passing, remember to return to the center lane.
Center lane: The most commonly used lane for general driving.
Outer lane: For slower vehicles or those preparing to exit the interchange.

⚠️ Speeding Fine Reference

Speeding within 20 km/h: NT$3,000.
Speeding 20–40 km/h: NT$3,500.
Speeding 40–60 km/h: NT$5,000.
Speeding 60–80 km/h: NT$8,000 (considered dangerous driving, and your driver’s license will be immediately confiscated).

📛 Shoulder Lane Prohibited

A red cross = no entry, a green circle = allowed to pass (usually opened during traffic congestion periods).

🚙 High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane

On certain roads during holidays or peak hours, vehicles with 3 or more passengers (including the driver) are required to use specific lanes. Be sure to pay attention before heading out!

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Taiwan Car Rental | Navigation Settings

🗺 Navigation Settings Recommendations

Google Maps
Applicable to all mobile systems, supports Chinese/English search, and provides complete traffic information.
Apple Maps

For iPhone only, the search may not be as accurate as Google, but it has a "speed camera alert" feature.

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⛽ What type of fuel to use for car rentals in Taiwan? Where is the fuel cap?

Common fuel types include: 92, 95, and 98 octane unleaded gasoline, as well as diesel.

If you're unsure which type of fuel to use, remember to ask when picking up the car or check the fuel gauge symbol on the dashboard. The arrow next to the fuel icon indicates which side the fuel cap is on!

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Fuel Type Comparison Chart/h2>

Fuel Type	Fuel Pump Marking	Cantonese	Japanese	English
Regular Gasoline (92)	Green	Unleaded Gasoline	レギュラー	Regular 92
Regular Gasoline (95)	Yellow	Unleaded Gasoline	レギュラー	Regular 95
Premium Gasoline (98)	Red	Premium Unleaded Gasoline	ハイオク	Premium 98
Diesel	Blue, Black	Eco Diesel	軽油	Diesel

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Self-Service Refueling Steps (Common in Taiwan)

First time refueling in Taiwan? Don’t worry, just follow these steps and you’ll have it done in no time!

1️⃣ Insert your card for payment and select the invoice option.

1.First, insert your credit card into the machine for payment authorization, then choose whether you want a paper receipt, electronic invoice, or mobile barcode receipt.
2.After the authorization is complete, your card will be returned, and you can start fueling!

2️⃣ Start refueling.

1.Open the car's fuel tank cover.
2.Choose the correct fuel nozzle (pay attention to the fuel type labels: 92, 95, 98, or diesel).