Car Hire in the Philippines

Driving Licence and General

An international driving permit is required to drive in the Philippines.

Driving conditions in the Philippines are best described as challenging so be prepared. Over 80% of the road network isn't paved so roads may be rather bumpy. Driving standards are poor and driving in larger towns and cities crowded and chaotic.

It is possible to hire cars including a local driver, in fact in some regions it is the only option.

The Philippines is a politically and geologically unstable country so do check the most up to date travel advice from the FCO before travelling.

Car Hire Insurance

Collision damage waivers in the Philippines tend to have quite small excesses but you will still be liable for tyres, wheels, windscreen and windows and the underside, all of which can easily be damaged on the roads outside the main towns. Theft waivers often carry more significant excesses.

CDW and Theft Waivers may not be included in the cost of rental so there is the option, or perhaps we should say opportunity, to provide your own. Where not provided, charges for CDW policies (with an excess) are typically around £7.50 per day for a modest compact car.

The amount of third party liability insurance provided with the car may be considerably lower than you may be comfortable with. If so, Supplementary Liability Insurance (SLI) policies are available on the MoneyMaxim car hire insurance comparison service which will "top up" any locally provided insurance to US $1 million. If you do want an SLI policy, be sure to select one with worldwide coverage as many are limited to the USA and Canada.