Your complete car rental checklist for Singapore. From document verification to vehicle inspection, make sure you're covered before driving off with your rental car.

Renting a car in Singapore is straightforward, but a few key checks before you drive off can save you headaches later. Here is our comprehensive car rental checklist.

Before you collect the car

Documents to bring

Valid Singapore driving licence (or an International Driving Permit for visitors)
NRIC or FIN card
Your booking confirmation
PDL if you are a P-Plate driver

Verify your booking details

Rental dates and times
Vehicle model and category
Rental rate and total cost
Insurance coverage and excess amount
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) if purchased

Vehicle inspection checklist

Exterior

Check for existing scratches, dents and paint damage
Take photos of any pre-existing damage
Check all tyres for tread depth and pressure
Ensure the spare tyre and jack are present
Check that all lights (headlights, taillights, indicators) work

Interior

Test the air conditioning
Check that all windows and mirrors are clean
Test the wipers and washer
Familiarise yourself with the controls (indicators, headlights, horn)
Check the fuel level and note it
Test the radio and Bluetooth

Under the bonnet

Check engine oil level
Check coolant level
Note the fuel type (petrol, hybrid)

Important things to confirm

Insurance and excess

Confirm your insurance coverage
Note the excess amount (deductible) in case of damage
Check if CDW reduces the excess
Ask about coverage for Malaysia travel if applicable

Return conditions

Confirm the return date and time
Ask about the fuel return policy
Note any late-return charges
Ask about after-hours return if needed

Emergency information

Save the 24/7 roadside assistance number
Note what to do in case of an accident
Ask about vehicle swap if the car breaks down

What you get renting from AKA

At AKA Car Rental, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing, comprehensive insurance, and well-maintained vehicles. Every rental includes a proper vehicle inspection report, 24/7 roadside assistance, and no hidden fees — and no deposit is required on standard rentals (a refundable deposit applies only for JB / cross-border use). Drivers under 26 with less than two years on their licence take a mandatory $9/day CDW that reduces excess.

Red flags to watch for

Rental companies that don't provide a proper rental agreement
Vehicles without valid insurance
Unclear pricing with potential hidden fees
No roadside assistance
Vehicles in poor condition

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to inspect the car myself? Yes — always walk around the car with the rental agent at pick-up, note any existing marks, and take time-stamped photos. It protects you at return.

What if I find damage at pick-up? Point it out before you drive off and make sure it's recorded on the inspection report. Don't leave the lot with undocumented damage.

Is a deposit required? At AKA, no deposit is needed for standard rentals. A refundable deposit applies only for JB / cross-border use.

What should I do if the car breaks down? Call the 24/7 roadside assistance number saved at pick-up. AKA provides a replacement vehicle during servicing so you don't lose your trip.

Conclusion

A few minutes of checks at pick-up prevents most rental disputes. Walk the car, photograph it, confirm the excess and return terms, and save the roadside number — then enjoy the drive.