Global Major Cities Guide

Services offering vehicle rentals for travelers and residents who prefer to drive.

Car rental companies in Daegu offer a variety of vehicle types to suit different needs:

Economy Cars: Compact and fuel-efficient, ideal for solo travelers or couples.
Sedans: Comfortable for small families or groups.
SUVs: Suitable for larger groups or those planning to explore mountainous or rural areas.
Luxury Cars: High-end vehicles for those seeking a premium experience.
Vans/Minivans: Great for larger families or groups.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Increasingly available, with charging stations in the city.

Rental costs in Daegu vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and the company. Below are approximate daily rates:

Economy Cars: KRW 50,000–80,000 ($40–$60 USD)
Sedans: KRW 70,000–120,000 ($55–$90 USD)
SUVs: KRW 100,000–150,000 ($75–$115 USD)
Luxury Cars: KRW 200,000+ ($150+ USD)
Vans: KRW 120,000–200,000 ($90–$150 USD)

Additional Costs:

Insurance: KRW 10,000–30,000 ($8–$25 USD) per day, depending on coverage.
GPS Rental: KRW 5,000–10,000 ($4–$8 USD) per day (if not included).
Fuel: Gasoline prices in South Korea are approximately KRW 1,700–2,000 per liter ($1.30–$1.50 USD).

The process for renting a car in Daegu is straightforward:

Choose a Rental Company: Major companies include:
- Local providers: Lotte Rent-a-Car, AJ Rent-a-Car.
- International providers: Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.
Make a Reservation: Book online in advance for better rates and availability. Walk-in rentals are possible but may have limited options.
Pick Up the Vehicle: Most rental offices are located near Daegu International Airport, Daegu Station, or downtown areas.
Return the Vehicle: Ensure the car is returned with the agreed fuel level and in good condition to avoid extra charges.

To rent a car in Daegu, you will need:

International Driving Permit (IDP): Required for most foreign drivers. It must be issued in your home country and valid in South Korea.
Driver’s License: Your original license from your home country.
Passport: For identification purposes.
Credit Card: For payment and deposit (some companies may accept debit cards, but credit cards are preferred).

Traffic Rules:
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Speed limits: 60 km/h in urban areas, 80–100 km/h on highways.
- No mobile phone use while driving unless using a hands-free device.
Navigation:
- GPS systems are often available in English, but confirm this when booking.
- Use apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map for real-time navigation (Google Maps is less reliable in South Korea).
Parking:
- Parking is available in public lots, underground garages, and designated street spaces.
- Fees range from KRW 1,000–3,000 ($0.75–$2.25 USD) per hour.
Toll Roads:
- Many highways in South Korea are toll roads. Use a Hi-Pass card (available for rent with the car) for electronic toll payments.

Driving Etiquette:
- Korean drivers can be assertive, especially in urban areas. Stay alert and drive defensively.
- Honking is uncommon unless absolutely necessary.
Language Barrier:
- Most road signs are in both Korean and English, but some smaller roads may only have Korean signage.
- Rental staff may have limited English proficiency, so consider using a translation app like Papago.
Pedestrian Priority:
- Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks, even if there are no traffic lights.

Rental companies in Daegu typically offer the following insurance options:

Basic Insurance: Included in the rental price, covers third-party liability.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car but may have a deductible.
Full Coverage: Comprehensive insurance with no deductible, recommended for peace of mind.
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.

Rental Companies: International companies like Hertz and Avis often have English-speaking staff. Local companies may have limited English support.
Customer Service: Most companies provide a 24/7 helpline, but English support may not always be available.
Translation Apps: Use apps like Papago or Google Translate to communicate with staff if needed.

Fuel Types: Most cars use gasoline, but diesel and electric vehicles are also available. Confirm the fuel type before refueling.
Winter Driving: If visiting in winter, ensure the car is equipped with snow tires or chains, as Daegu can experience icy roads.
Child Seats: Required for children under 6 years old. Request one when booking if needed.
One-Way Rentals: Some companies allow you to pick up the car in Daegu and return it in another city, but additional fees may apply.

If you’re unsure about driving in Daegu, consider these alternatives:

Public Transportation: Daegu has an efficient subway and bus system.
Taxis: Readily available and relatively affordable.
Car-Sharing Services: Apps like Socar and GreenCar allow short-term car rentals, often without the need for an IDP.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to rent a car and drive confidently in Daegu. Safe travels!