Start with documents, then choose the car

For short-term visitors, an online reservation is not proof that the counter can hand over the vehicle. Current KTO guidance requires an international driving permit (IDP) and passport, and notes that some companies may also ask for the home-country licence. KTO's 2026 transport guide also warns that rentals are unavailable to travelers from countries not covered by the relevant IDP reciprocity framework.

Do not guess the age rule

Two current KTO pages use slightly different wording. The basic Driving in Korea page says short-term tourists must be over 21, while KTO's later Editor's Insight says 21 years old or older. Because the official wording is inconsistent, confirm the rental company's exact minimum age and driving-experience rule before paying, especially if the driver is 21.

Payment wording also differs

The basic KTO page says rental fees can only be paid by a credit card in the driver's name. The later Editor's Insight lists the driver's passport and credit/debit card, while KTO's 2026 transport guide says LOTTE and SK Rent-a-Car accept foreign-issued credit cards. Treat the rental company's own checkout requirements as controlling: confirm whether your exact foreign card type, cardholder name and deposit method are accepted.

Check the vehicle class and insurance

Your IDP class limits the vehicle you can legally drive, and company rules for age, experience, deposit, insurance and vehicle class can be stricter. Confirm the exact car, insurance coverage, excess/deductible, fuel or charging return condition and late-return policy.

When a car is useful

A rental car is most useful for rural areas, coastal routes, mountains and multi-stop days where local buses are sparse. It is often less useful in dense city centers where parking and congestion can outweigh the flexibility.

Before pickup

Bring the original passport, qualifying IDP, home-country licence if available, and the payment card the company has confirmed it will accept. Recheck the pickup office hours, reservation name, insurance, toll/Hi-pass setup and return conditions before traveling to the counter.