While public transportation in Taiwan is extremely convenient, especially in major cities like Taipei or Kaohsiung, there are some remote areas nestled in the mountains or countryside that you’ll need to explore by either car or scooter. If you’re in Taiwan for a short period, we highly recommend renting your own vehicle to easily explore all the incredible scenic areas that this island has to offer.
Car Rental in Taiwan: General Information
While public transportation is undoubtedly convenient, the people of Taiwan have a strong inclination towards using their personal vehicles, especially scooters. In fact, Taiwan holds the prestigious title of being the ‘Scooter Capital of the World,’ boasting a staggering 14 million registered scooters for a nation with just over 23 million inhabitants.
However, if renting a scooter doesn’t align with your preferences, whether due to safety concerns or the need for swifter mobility across the island, you’ll find that car rentals are readily accessible throughout Taiwan.
Where can I rent a car in Taiwan?
Car rental locations can be found throughout Taiwan. You’ll naturally come across them near airports and train stations, but they’re also available in smaller towns and even rural areas, particularly if there’s a popular tourist attraction nearby.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Taiwan?
Like in any country, costs will vary widely depending on the type of vehicle. The price range can be quite extensive, typically ranging from 1,000 NTD (30 USD) to 3,000 NTD (100 USD) per day. Discounts are frequently offered for extended rentals and for weekdays as opposed to weekends. Numerous platforms, like Klook, aggregate a variety of car rental providers, enabling you to choose the most affordable options currently available.
Driving License & Renting Eligibility
When it comes to renting a car in Taiwan, there are two general rules. First, you need to be over 21 years of age, and second, you must possess an international driver’s license, which you should obtain in your home country before your trip to Taiwan.
It’s worth mentioning that, particularly in rural areas or smaller cities, these two rules are sometimes overlooked. For instance, smaller car rental shops might rent you a car if you simply provide them with your local driver’s license, especially if you’re from a ‘western country’ (such as the US, EU, Australia, etc).
Tips and Other Facts
Here is some additional information related to car rentals or simply navigating the country.
Manual or Automatic
Most cars in Taiwan are automatic. If you’re not comfortable driving automatics and are looking for manual, the probability of finding one is very low unfortunately.
They Drive on the Right-Hand Side
Taiwan, like the majority of the world, drives on the right-hand side of the road.
Get a Taiwanese Sim Card
While traveling around Taiwan, you definitely want to be able to use Google Maps to show you the way. While you might think it is more convenient to set up an international plan with your local provider before your trip, mobile data in Taiwan is extremely affordable, and we would advise you to buy a SIM card in Taiwan.
Driving Style and Safety
Taiwan is often considered one of the safest countries on Earth, with one notable exception – its road safety. Taiwanese drivers are known to lose their sense of civility once they find themselves behind the wheel, leading to frequent traffic accidents. As a result, when driving in Taiwan, especially outside of Taipei where traffic rules are often disregarded, it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution.
Be cautious of speed cameras and red light cameras as they are widespread.
In major cities like Taipei, there are lanes reserved for buses or scooters; avoid driving in these lanes.
Road Quality
Taiwan’s roads are in excellent condition, and unless you visit right after a typhoon, when rockfalls can occur, you should not encounter any issues.
Car parking
Parking is relatively easy to find, especially in big cities and near tourist attractions. Parking on the side of the road is also an option in many areas.
Fuel Option and Policy
Fuel in Taiwan is significantly more affordable compared to most Western countries. This is because fuel, similar to electricity, is intentionally controlled and subsidized by the government to preserve the country’s economic competitiveness.
The price of a liter for 95 octane gas is around 30 NTD (1 USD).
Road signs
Taiwan is a Mandarin-speaking country, and therefore, all road signs are written using Chinese characters. Most major road signs also include English translations below, so not being able to speak Chinese shouldn’t be an issue.
Extra Fee on National Highways
Driving on National Highways will incur a fee of 1.5 NTD (0.05 USD) per kilometer. This is a cost you’ll settle at the end of your trip when returning the car to the rental company.
What about Renting a Scooter
Renting a scooter is somewhat more complicated than renting a car because, technically, you can only do so if you possess a Taiwanese scooter driving license. In more rural areas, they might be more lenient and allow you to rent a scooter by simply presenting your international driving license, but in cities, this is highly unlikely.
It is possible to exchange your international driving license for a Taiwanese driving license; however, if you’re only in Taiwan for a short period, it might not be the most practical option.
While public transportation is highly convenient in major Taiwanese cities, renting your own vehicle is an excellent choice for exploring remote and scenic areas. Ensure you meet the driving eligibility requirements, and consider the helpful tips and information provided for a safe and enjoyable experience on the road in Taiwan. Safe travels!
Bubble Tea Island 