Renting a self drive car for the first time can feel overwhelming — choosing the right car, understanding the rental terms, planning your route. This guide covers the 10 essential things every first-time renter in Bhubaneswar should know before picking up the keys.

1. Choose the Right Car for Your Trip

Do not just pick the cheapest option. Think about where you are going and who is with you. City-only trips? A hatchback is perfect. Highway trip to Puri? Any car works. Hill roads to Daringbadi? You need an SUV. Family of 5+? Ertiga or Kia Carens.

2. Read the Insurance and Damage Policy

Every Rideez car includes comprehensive insurance. But understand what is covered and what is not. Normal driving incidents are covered. Driving under influence, unauthorized drivers, and interior damage from smoking are not. Read our insurance policy before pickup.

3. Inspect the Car Before Driving Away

At pickup, walk around the car with the Rideez staff. Note any existing scratches or dents. Check the tyres, AC, headlights, wipers, and fuel level. Take photos. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage at return.

4. Understand the Fuel Policy

Rideez provides the car with enough fuel to reach the nearest petrol pump. You refuel based on your travel needs. Return the car with similar fuel level. Fuel costs are entirely your responsibility — they are not included in the daily rental rate.

5. Save Emergency Numbers

Save +91-7008330082 in your phone before you drive. This is Rideez’s 24/7 helpline. If anything goes wrong — flat tyre, breakdown, accident, locked out — call immediately. Roadside assistance reaches you within 30 minutes anywhere in Odisha.

6. Use Google Maps, Even for Familiar Routes

Odisha’s highways are well-signed, but smaller roads to places like Satkosia, Bhitarkanika, or Daringbadi can be confusing. Download offline maps for your route before leaving. Google Maps works well across Odisha but mobile data can be patchy in forest areas.

7. Carry Your Documents

Keep your original driving licence and Aadhaar with you at all times while driving. Traffic police may ask for documents, and without originals, you could face a challan. See our complete documents checklist.

8. Plan for Tolls and Parking

Major routes from Bhubaneswar have toll plazas. The Puri and Konark routes are toll-free, but Chilika, Gopalpur, and longer routes have ₹50-200 in tolls. Carry ₹500 cash or a FASTag-enabled wallet for toll payments. Parking is free or minimal (₹20-50) at most Bhubaneswar locations.

9. Return on Time

Your rental period is calculated from pickup time. Returning late may incur extra charges. If your plans change, call Rideez before your return time to extend. Extensions are at the same daily rate, subject to availability.

10. Know the Return Options

You can return at the Patia hub, Nayapalli office, BBI Airport, or request doorstep pickup anywhere in Bhubaneswar. Just schedule your return during booking or call to arrange.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I get a traffic challan while driving?

You are responsible for any traffic violations during your rental period. Drive within speed limits, wear seatbelts, and follow traffic rules. Challans detected after return will be deducted from your security deposit.

Can someone else drive the car I rented?

Only the person whose documents were verified at pickup should drive. Unauthorized drivers void the insurance coverage. If you need multiple drivers, inform Rideez during booking and provide documents for all drivers.