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Traveling from Japan to Taiwan and planning to explore the country by car? Renting a car is a fantastic way to enjoy the scenic drives and vibrant cities.
If you are traveling for the first time, you might have these questions in mind:
  • Can I drive in Taiwan with my Japanese driver's license?
  • What is the process for obtaining an international driving permit (IDP)?
  • What insurance coverage is required?
  • What are the car rental costs in Taiwan?
  • Are the traffic rules in Taiwan different from Japan?

This guide will answer these questions along with many others to ensure your car rental journey in Taiwan is smooth and enjoyable. We've summarized everything in an easy-to-follow format so you can confidently plan your trip.

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Taiwan?

Yes, Japanese travelers can legally drive in Taiwan with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

  • Form of ID:

    A valid passport is required.

  • Driving licence:

    Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    or
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet

    Notes: Due to reciprocal driver's license principle in Taiwan, please contact the rental company in advance and let them know your driver's license is issued in what country and state/province, which will help the rental company confirm your eligibility.
  • Accepted cards:

    Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, AMEX, and UnionPay.

  • Age requirements:

    The general age policy allows drivers aged 18 to 80. Specific age ranges may vary by rental company.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

Check Rates

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore reliable options for car rental in Taiwan, including well-known international brands and local providers tailored to your travel preferences.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

  • Hertz

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    23

    Prices:

    $$$

    Key Advantages

    • Largest fleet in USA
    • Premium vehicle selection
    • Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
    • Express rental counters

    Best for

    Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
  • Hertz

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    29

    Prices:

    $$$

    Key Advantages

    • Largest fleet in USA
    • Premium vehicle selection
    • Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
    • Express rental counters

    Best for

    Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
  • Avis

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    111

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Strong global presence
    • User-friendly online booking system
    • Loyalty program with discounts
    • Variety of vehicle types including SUVs and sedans

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and families
  • Hertz

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    87

    Prices:

    $$$

    Key Advantages

    • Largest fleet in USA
    • Premium vehicle selection
    • Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
    • Express rental counters

    Best for

    Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
  • Thrifty

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    49

    Prices:

    $-$$

    Key Advantages

    • Wide selection of vehicles
    • Competitive pricing
    • Membership rewards program
    • Easy online booking

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and families
  • Dollar

    global
    8.5

    Locations:

    48

    Prices:

    $-$$

    Key Advantages

    • Competitive pricing
    • Wide selection of economy vehicles
    • Easy online booking
    • Flexible rental terms

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers
  • Chailease

    local
    8.5

    Locations:

    52

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Competitive pricing
    • Wide range of vehicles
    • Tailored services for corporate clients
    • Excellent customer service

    Best for

    Local travelers and businesses
  • Goodcars

    local
    8.5

    Locations:

    6

    Prices:

    $-$$

    Key Advantages

    • Competitive pricing
    • Personalized customer service
    • Easy online booking
    • Convenient pickup and drop-off locations

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
  • SHANGDAOZUCHE

    local
    8.5

    Locations:

    4

    Prices:

    $$

    Key Advantages

    • Competitive pricing
    • Wide range of vehicle types
    • Personalized service
    • Convenient pickup and drop-off locations

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
  • Cyuan-Guo

    local
    8.5

    Locations:

    7

    Prices:

    $-$$

    Key Advantages

    • Personalized customer service
    • Competitive pricing
    • Convenient location
    • Local knowledge

    Best for

    Budget-conscious travelers and locals
Recommendations for Japanese Travelers
Choose Global Chains If:
  • You are traveling across multiple regions in Taiwan.
  • Prefer comprehensive customer service support.
  • Want familiar standards and procedures.
  • Need flexible booking and cancellation policies.
Choose Local Brands If:
  • Looking for cost-effective options.
  • Primarily staying within urban areas.
  • Interested in unique or locally adapted vehicles.
  • Comfortable with app-based or online-only services.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

  • Seating and Luggage

    Consider your travel group size and luggage needs

    • Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
      Perfect for city driving and short trips

    • Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
      Good balance of space and fuel efficiency

    • Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
      Comfortable for longer distances

    • Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
      Ideal for families and group travel

  • Transmission Type

    Choose between automatic and manual transmission

    • Automatic transmission
      Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in TW

    • Manual transmission
      Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control

    • Consider your comfort level with driving in TW traffic and automatic cars

  • Insurance Included

    Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental

    • Basic liability
      Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included

    • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
      Covers damage to your rental car, often optional

    • Theft protection
      Protects against car theft, may be included or additional

    • Personal insurance
      Check if your Japanese insurance or travel insurance covers rentals

  • Cancellation Policy

    Understand booking flexibility and fees

    • Free cancellation
      Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup

    • Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
      Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible

    • Change fees
      Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type

    • Travel insurance
      Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays

  • Mileage Policy

    Check distance restrictions and additional charges

    • Unlimited mileage
      Best for long road trips and cross-country travel

    • Limited mileage
      Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles

    • Consider your planned route distance and potential detours

    • Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices

  • Fuel Policy

    Understand fuel requirements and costs

    • Full-to-Full
      Return with same fuel level, most economical option

    • Full-to-Empty
      Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive

    • Same-to-Same
      Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing

    • Pre-purchase fuel options
      Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

  • City Travel

    Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy

    Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung
  • Road Trip

    Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation

    Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake, East Coast
  • Vacation

    Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option

    Kenting, Taitung, Yilan

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.
  • Compare all car rental deals
  • No hidden fees
  • Real customer reviews
Check Rates

What Insurance Do I Need?

To rent a car in Taiwan, travelers from Japan are required to have basic insurance coverage. Additional insurance options are highly recommended to ensure a safe and worry-free trip. Policies and coverage may vary depending on the provider, so it is important to verify the details before booking.

Types of Insurance Coverage
  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

    Covers damage to the rental car in case of a collision or theft.

    ¥2,250-¥3,750/day
    Essential
  • Theft Waiver (TP)

    Provides protection against theft of the rental vehicle.

    ¥750-¥1,200/day
    Essential
  • Third-Party Liability Insurance

    Covers damages or injuries caused to other people and their property.

    Often included in the rental price
    Included
  • Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)

    Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.

    ¥750-¥1,500/day
    Optional
QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Taiwan(China). Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison
Coverage Feature
QEEQ Full Coverage
Basic Rental Company
Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$329.02 - US$1,645.11
Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$658.00 - US$10,528.05
Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered
Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered
Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered
Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Taiwan?

Smart planning and informed choices can help Japanese travelers save significantly when renting a car in Taiwan. Follow these tips for a cost-effective rental experience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices
  • Book in Advance
    Reserve your car at least 3-4 weeks prior to your trip to secure better rates and preferred vehicle options, especially during peak travel seasons.
    Save up to ¥4,500-¥6,000
  • Choose Local Rental Services
    Local rental companies often offer competitive rates compared to international brands. Research and compare options to find the best deal.
    Save up to ¥3,000-¥5,000
  • Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
    Picking up the car with a full tank and returning it full can prevent additional refueling charges and allows you to find cheaper fuel stations.
    Save ¥1,500-¥2,500 on fuel costs
  • Avoid Unnecessary Upgrades
    Stick to a car size that suits your needs. Compact cars are generally cheaper and sufficient for most trips in Taiwan.
    Save ¥3,000-¥4,000
QEEQ's Money-Saving Features
  • Diamond Membership
    Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
    View Details
  • Price Drop Protector
    If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
    View Details
  • One-Dollar Freeze
    Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
    View Details
  • Flexible Payments
    Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
    View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Taiwan.

  • Hidden Fees
    Be aware of additional charges not included in the advertised rental cost.
    • Cross-border fees (if applicable)
    • Late return penalties
    • Charges for vehicle cleaning
    • Fees for GPS or other add-ons
    • Service charges at certain locations
  • Insurance Options
    Understand the insurance coverage offered to avoid unnecessary costs.
    • Basic insurance may not cover all scenarios
    • Check for collision damage waivers
    • Review your travel insurance for coverage
    • Consider third-party insurance providers
    • Ensure documentation for claims is clear
  • Fuel Policies
    Different fuel return policies can impact rental costs.
    • Full tank return is often preferred
    • Prepaid fuel plans might be more expensive
    • Locate nearby fuel stations before returning
    • Keep fuel receipts for verification
    • Return the vehicle with the agreed fuel level
  • Vehicle Condition
    Check the vehicle thoroughly at pickup.
    • Inspect for any existing damage
    • Ensure all lights and electronics work
    • Check tires and fluid levels
    • Document any visible issues
    • Confirm the fuel level matches the agreement
  • Rental Agreement
    Understand the terms and conditions outlined in the contract.
    • Mileage limits and penalties for exceeding
    • Restrictions on driving areas or countries
    • Return policies and grace periods
    • Cancellation and modification terms
    • Procedures for reporting accidents
  • Timing Considerations
    Plan your rental schedule wisely to avoid additional costs.
    • Choose pickup times during business hours
    • Account for traffic when returning vehicles
    • Late returns could result in extra charges
    • Verify operational hours of the rental office
    • Early returns may not yield refunds
Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules Differences and Similarities Between Japan and Taiwan

Understand the key differences and similarities in road safety regulations to ensure a smooth car rental experience in Taiwan.

  • Drive on the Side

    TW

    Drive on the right side of the road

    JP

    Drive on the left side of the road

  • Parking Orientation

    TW

    Parking usually follows the direction of traffic flow

    JP

    Parking rules may allow deviation from the traffic direction

  • Speed Limits

    TW

    Speed limits are marked in kilometers per hour (km/h)

    JP

    Speed limits are marked in kilometers per hour (km/h)

  • Seatbelt Regulations

    TW

    Mandatory for all passengers

    JP

    Mandatory for all passengers

  • Mobile Phone Usage

    TW

    Hands-free usage required while driving

    JP

    Hands-free usage required while driving

  • Remember
    • • Always carry your Japanese driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP).
    • • Be aware that Taiwanese road signs are primarily in Chinese, with occasional English translations.
    • • Ensure your rental car has the required insurance coverage for foreign travelers.
    • • Familiarize yourself with toll roads and electronic toll collection systems in Taiwan.
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