For those looking to get the most out of South Korea, hiring a car is one of the most convenient and enjoyable approaches — especially once you venture beyond the major urban centres. Foreign visitors require both a valid driving licence from their home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under either the Geneva or Vienna Convention, which must be arranged prior to departure. A wide selection of both local and global rental companies can be found at airports and throughout cities. Vehicles travel on the right-hand side, road infrastructure is of a high standard, and expressways commonly charge tolls.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum rental age | 21 years old (as of 2025); young driver surcharges often apply under 25 |
| IDP required? | Yes — must be issued under the 1949 Geneva or 1968 Vienna Convention; obtain before arrival |
| IDPs not accepted | China, Indonesia, Taiwan (as of 2025) |
| IDP validity in South Korea | Up to 1 year from date of entry |
| Drive on | Right-hand side of the road |
| Typical daily rental cost | ₩50,000–₩90,000 (small car) to ₩90,000–₩150,000 (SUV) per day (as of 2025; check current rates) |
| Toll payment | Cash or card at toll booths; Hi-Pass electronic lanes for equipped vehicles only |
| Key official sources | Korea Road Traffic Authority (KOROAD); Korea Tourism Organization |
What are the rules and requirements for renting a car in South Korea?
The minimum age to rent a car in South Korea is 21, and drivers below the age of 25 may be subject to a young driver surcharge. Certain vehicle classes — particularly larger or higher-end models — may be unavailable to younger drivers. Since policies differ between providers, always confirm the exact age restrictions with your chosen company when making a booking (as of 2025).
Any driver wishing to hire or operate a vehicle in South Korea must hold a valid driving licence alongside an International Driving Permit (IDP) from a country that is a signatory to either the 1949 Geneva Convention or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. Licences originating from China, Indonesia, and Taiwan are not recognised for rental purposes in South Korea.
Both your home-country driving licence and your IDP must be on your person whenever you are behind the wheel in South Korea. The licence should be a full, unrestricted licence that has been held for at least one to two years, with no serious disqualifications on record — though this minimum period may vary between rental operators.
You will also need to present your passport as proof of identity, and payment for the rental must come from a credit card issued in the primary driver’s name. All rental dates must fall within one year of your entry into the country.
For the most reliable and up-to-date information on legal requirements, refer to the Korea Road Traffic Authority (KOROAD) and check directly with your rental provider before you travel, as individual company rules can differ.
- Confirm that your driving licence is full and unrestricted, and has been valid for at least one to two years.
- Arrange a valid IDP through the authorised issuing organisation in your home country before you leave — the IDP must be issued in the same country as your driving licence, and it cannot be obtained or renewed once you are already overseas.
- Make sure the IDP is issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention (sometimes referred to as “IDP 1949”) — this is the specific format required in South Korea.
- Keep your original driving licence, IDP, and passport on you whenever you are driving.
- Bring a credit or debit card capable of processing international payments to cover the deposit and any additional charges.
- When booking, verify the age requirements, available vehicle categories, and any other relevant restrictions with your rental company.
Which major car rental companies operate in South Korea, and where can I find them?
South Korea has a well-developed car rental market with a large number of operators to choose from. Booking online ahead of your trip is strongly recommended, and rental desks are easy to locate at airports, near major train stations, bus terminals, and throughout city centres.
Both domestic Korean brands and globally recognised international companies have a presence in major cities, including counters at key airports such as Incheon and Gimpo. Seoul is served by two international airports — Gimpo and Incheon — so it is worth confirming which one is relevant to your itinerary before making your booking.
The following are among the most prominent rental operators you are likely to encounter across South Korea:
- Lotte Rent-a-Car — one of South Korea’s largest domestic rental companies, with desks at major airports and city branches nationwide. Operates in Korean and English. Website: lotterentacar.net
- SK Rent-a-Car (AJ Rent-a-Car) — another major Korean rental brand with broad nationwide coverage, including airport desks. Website: skrentacar.co.kr
- Avis — international brand with South Korea locations at Incheon Airport and in Seoul and other cities. Website: avis.com
- Hertz — available at Incheon International Airport and select city locations. Website: hertz.com
- Sixt — operates at Incheon Airport and in Seoul. Website: sixt.com
- KT Kumho Rent-a-Car — a well-established Korean brand with nationwide city and airport coverage. Website: ktrentacar.co.kr
On Jeju Island — a favourite destination for self-drive holidays — all rental companies are based at Jeju Airport, which makes vehicle collection straightforward. Jeju International Airport is well set up for rental traffic, with dedicated shuttle services and clearly organised pick-up areas that keep the process smooth even during the busiest travel periods.
Comparison websites such as Rentalcars.com and Kayak can display pricing from both international and Korean providers side by side, although some local operators may only accept reservations through their own websites or domestic Korean booking platforms.
How does car rental pricing work in South Korea, and what should I watch out for?
The cost of hiring a car in South Korea depends on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle, the time of year, the region, and how far in advance you book. As a general indication, a compact car typically runs ₩50,000–₩90,000 per day, while a mid-size car or SUV is usually priced at ₩90,000–₩150,000 per day (as of 2025; always verify current rates with your provider).
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is generally not included in the base price — without it, you bear full financial responsibility for any damage to the vehicle. This differs from some European markets where a basic level of CDW is often bundled into the quoted rate. In South Korea, the vehicle hire fee and insurance options are typically displayed as separate line items, so study the pricing breakdown carefully before confirming your reservation.
Scrutinise the rental agreement thoroughly before signing to avoid surprises at pick-up. Additional fees for extra drivers, GPS units, or supplementary insurance can add meaningfully to the daily rate. A modest surcharge also applies when collecting a vehicle directly from the airport, though the difference is usually minor.
One-way rentals are both costly and logistically challenging in South Korea. If your travel plans take you between cities such as Seoul and Busan, returning to your original collection point — or making separate rental arrangements at each destination — is generally far more economical than a one-way drop-off.
Fuel is not included in the rental price. The standard arrangement in South Korea follows a full-to-full policy: you receive the car with a full tank and are expected to return it at the same level. Failing to refuel before drop-off will result in a top-up charge applied by the rental company, typically at a rate above normal pump prices.
Before pulling out of the lot, photograph any pre-existing scratches or damage and log them through the rental company’s app or at the desk to prevent any disputes when you return the car. The Korea Tourism Organization offers general guidance for visitors, and formal complaints regarding rental disputes can be directed to the Korea Consumer Agency (kca.go.kr).
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a car in South Korea?
Holding an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a legal requirement for foreign nationals driving in South Korea, and it must be obtained in your home country before you travel — it is a physical document that cannot be issued abroad. This is not merely advisory guidance; rental companies will expect to see it when you pick up your vehicle.
The IDP must have been issued by a country that is party to either the Geneva or Vienna Convention, and it must remain valid throughout your rental period. Permits issued in China, Taiwan, and Indonesia are not accepted in South Korea. If your licence was issued in one of these countries, or in a nation not party to either convention, you should contact the South Korean embassy in your home country for advice before making any travel arrangements.
An IDP functions as an official translation of your driving licence and is only valid when used alongside it — it does not replace the licence itself. You must carry both documents together at all times while driving.
Tourists and short-term visitors can legally drive in South Korea using an IDP for up to one year from the date of entry. The specific permit required is the “International Driving Permit 1949,” which carries a one-year validity period.
Be wary of websites advertising digital or online-issued IDPs. Numerous platforms claim to provide “International Driver’s Licences” or “Digital International Driving Permits” — these should be approached with scepticism, as only officially designated authorities in each country are authorised to issue legitimate IDPs. Always obtain yours from your country’s recognised issuing body (such as a national automobile club or government transport authority) before leaving home. Confirm current requirements directly with the Korea Road Traffic Authority (KOROAD) or your rental company in advance of travel (as of 2025).
What types of roads and driving conditions should I be prepared for in South Korea?
South Korea’s road network is extensive and well maintained, connecting the entire country via highways and well-surfaced national routes that make getting around by car relatively uncomplicated. The drive from Seoul to Busan — Korea’s main southeastern city — takes roughly four hours in light traffic conditions. Road quality is consistently high throughout the country.
The steering wheel is on the left side of the vehicle and traffic moves on the right. Distances are measured in kilometres, and speed is displayed in kilometres per hour. Speed limits on Korean motorways and expressways range from 100 to 120 km/h, while city roads are typically limited to 50–60 km/h, and residential side streets to 30–40 km/h.
Speed limit enforcement is rigorous. Fixed and mobile cameras are deployed extensively on motorways and urban roads, and penalty notices are automatically forwarded to the rental company, which will in turn pass the charge on to the driver. In designated school zones, drivers must reduce speed to below 30 km/h, as children may enter the roadway without warning.
Toll roads are a prominent feature of Korean expressways, with the majority of major highways charging fees. While it is technically possible to avoid these routes, doing so adds considerable journey time; for intercity travel, expressways are generally the most efficient option and the tolls are reasonable. Payment at toll booths can be made in cash or by card, or automatically via the Hi-Pass electronic system for vehicles equipped with a compatible device.
Most rental vehicles in South Korea do not come with a Hi-Pass unit as standard. Lanes bearing blue Hi-Pass signage are reserved exclusively for vehicles with the device installed and should be avoided unless your car is equipped. If you wish to use Hi-Pass lanes, you can purchase a Hi-Pass card at a convenience store — including those located in airport arrivals areas — load it with credit, and the toll charge will be deducted automatically at each gantry. Clarify with the rental desk whether your specific vehicle includes a Hi-Pass unit at the time of collection.
In urban areas, dedicated bus lanes are identified by blue road markings. Private vehicles are prohibited from using them except where a broken line indicates a permitted turning point, and violations are monitored by camera. At traffic lights, a dedicated left-turn signal is required before turning — an unsignalled left turn is only permitted when there is a clear and safe gap in oncoming traffic.
Standard Google Maps navigation is not reliable for driving in South Korea. The two main mapping applications used locally are Naver Map and Kakao Map — Naver Map in particular is user-friendly and accepts searches in English. Download one of these before your journey begins.
Seat belt use is compulsory for all occupants at all times, and the use of a handheld mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited. Hands-free operation is permitted.
What insurance do I need when renting a car in South Korea?
Korean rental companies are required to include Compulsory Automobile Liability Insurance in the base hire cost, so you do not need to purchase this separately. This coverage addresses injuries and property damage sustained by third parties and represents the legal minimum required to operate a vehicle on Korean public roads.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), however, is generally not bundled into the standard rental price. Without it, you assume full liability for the entire repair cost of the vehicle in the event of damage. Opting for CDW limits your exposure to a specified excess amount, making it a worthwhile consideration for most drivers.
Rental companies typically offer several tiers of CDW coverage with differing deductible amounts. A more affordable basic option may still carry a substantial excess, while a premium package may reduce this to zero. Take the time to compare the available options at the booking stage and again at the rental counter before you finalise the agreement.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAC) is an optional add-on that provides cover for the driver, any passengers, and other individuals involved in the event of a collision. Personal Effects Coverage (PEC) can be added to protect against the theft of belongings left inside the vehicle.
Driver’s Insurance offers supplementary protection covering the driver’s own medical costs, fines, and legal expenses arising from an accident. This is particularly worth considering if your travel insurance policy does not provide equivalent protection for vehicle-related incidents.
Certain credit cards include rental vehicle insurance that extends to international trips. If your card offers this benefit, review the policy documentation closely to verify that South Korea is among the covered territories. Coverage terms vary considerably between card issuers and product types, so always confirm the details directly with your card provider before treating it as your primary protection. Additionally, check with the rental company that card-based coverage will be accepted in lieu of purchasing their own CDW.
Proof of your insurance must be kept in the vehicle and presented alongside your licence and IDP if requested. Insurance upgrades can only be added when signing the rental contract, so decide on your preferred level of cover before you arrive at the counter.
Are there any specific rules for expats or long-term residents renting cars in South Korea?
Short-term visitors and tourists arriving in South Korea are entitled to drive legally using a foreign licence combined with a valid IDP for up to one year from their entry date. Provided both documents remain valid, those on short-stay visas can rent and drive throughout that period without any additional requirements.
Long-term residents, however, are required to obtain a South Korean driving licence. In most cases, this involves exchanging your existing foreign licence for a Korean equivalent rather than completing the full licensing process from the beginning. Under Article 84 of the Road Traffic Act, your original foreign licence must be surrendered to the authorities upon exchange; it will be kept safely and returned to you when you depart Korea or if you later choose to relinquish your Korean licence.
Licences from countries with which South Korea has a specific Mutual Recognition Agreement — including Belgium, Poland, Spain, and Italy — can be directly converted to an equivalent class of Korean licence. For licences issued by most other countries, the exchange procedure includes a medical examination and, in some instances, a written theory test. The written test is available in English, making it accessible to foreign residents regardless of their Korean language proficiency.
Foreign nationals holding a driving licence from a country that recognises international driving permits are eligible to receive a Korean licence following a health check. Those from countries whose licences are not accepted under the Korean system will additionally need to pass a written examination consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions alongside the health check.
Once you are the holder of a Korean driving licence, you can use it alone to rent a car within the country — there is no further need for an IDP. For comprehensive, current guidance on the licence exchange process, including up-to-date fee schedules and required documentation, visit the Korea Road Traffic Authority (KOROAD) English-language website or attend your nearest Driver’s Licence Examination Office in person (as of 2025; fees and procedures are subject to change).
Frequently asked questions about renting a car in South Korea
Can I rent a car in South Korea if I am under 25?
The minimum age to rent a car in South Korea is 21. Drivers aged between 21 and 24 may be subject to a young driver surcharge, and certain vehicle categories — particularly larger or premium models — may not be available to this age group. Always check the specific age policy of your chosen provider at the time of booking (as of 2025).
What happens if I have an accident in a rental car in South Korea?
If anyone has been injured, call 119 for emergency services immediately. To report the incident to the police and obtain an official accident report — which will be needed for insurance purposes — call 112. Once this is done, contact the rental company, explain what has happened, and follow their instructions. Before setting off, ensure you have saved the rental company’s 24-hour emergency contact number somewhere easily accessible.
Can I drive a rental car across the border into another country?
South Korea has no land borders accessible to general travellers — the only land border is with North Korea, which is closed to tourists. Cross-border driving is therefore not a realistic concern for the vast majority of renters. If you are considering travelling by car ferry to Japan, be aware that standard rental agreements prohibit taking vehicles on ferries or across international borders. Always review the specific terms of your rental contract carefully.
Is Google Maps reliable for navigation in South Korea?
Google Maps is not a dependable navigation tool for driving in South Korea. Naver Map and Kakao Map are the applications of choice for local drivers and are considerably more accurate when it comes to routes, traffic updates, and toll road information. Both are available on iOS and Android and accept English-language input. Install one before your trip begins.
What should I do if I return the car with less fuel than when I collected it?
Fuel is not included in the rental price. South Korean rental companies operate on a full-to-full basis: the vehicle is provided with a full tank and must be returned at the same level. If the tank is not full on return, the company will refuel it and charge you accordingly — typically at a rate higher than what you would pay at a petrol station. Refuelling before returning the car yourself is always the more economical option.
Are automatic cars available in South Korea?
All rental vehicles in South Korea come with automatic transmission, so there is no need to specifically request one when booking. This is particularly convenient when dealing with city traffic or navigating expressway toll plazas.
Do speed cameras and traffic fines affect rental car drivers?
Speed limit enforcement in South Korea is thorough, with cameras deployed widely across motorways and city roads. Fines are processed automatically and issued to the rental company, which will then charge the amount to you — frequently with an additional administrative handling fee on top. The rental company is obligated to pass on any traffic violations to the driver of record. Adhering strictly to posted speed limits throughout your journey is the best way to avoid these charges.
Do I need to carry any specific documents while driving a rental car in South Korea?
Yes — you must have your original foreign driving licence, your valid IDP, your passport, and evidence of your rental vehicle insurance with you at all times while driving. Being unable to produce the required documents can result in fines, complications with your insurer, or difficulties in the event of an accident. Keep physical copies of all documents in the car, and consider saving digital backups to your phone as a secondary precaution.