Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers to help you plan your Iceland journey

Booking

Understanding how to reserve a vehicle with 4Drive Iceland is the first step. The booking process is designed to confirm your selection quickly, with clear information about what happens next and what documents you will receive.

How do I book a vehicle with 4Drive Iceland?

Select your pickup location, dates, and preferred vehicle on the website. After entering your details and completing the online payment of the booking advance, you will receive a voucher by email. The voucher contains all the information you need, including the contact details of the local company that will provide the vehicle, and the exact pickup instructions.

What will I receive after booking?

You will receive a booking voucher via email immediately after payment. This voucher includes your reservation reference, the vehicle details, pickup and return information, the name and contact of the local provider, and the remaining amount due at pickup. Keep this voucher with you during your trip, as you will present it when collecting the vehicle.

Can I book a specific make or model?

You book a vehicle type - such as a compact SUV, a pickup, or a 4WD - rather than a specific make or model. The local company will allocate a vehicle from that category. The description on the booking page lists typical examples, such as Toyota Hilux or Dacia Duster, but the actual vehicle may vary depending on availability at the time of pickup.

Payment and Advance

Payment structure is straightforward. You pay part of the total online to secure the booking, and settle the rest when you collect the vehicle. The method for the remaining balance depends on the vehicle you have selected.

How much do I pay online and how much at pickup?

When you book, you pay a booking advance online by card. The exact amount is shown during the booking process. The remaining balance is paid directly to the local company when you collect the vehicle. The split varies depending on the vehicle and the season, and both amounts are clearly stated before you confirm your reservation.

What payment methods are accepted for the remaining balance?

The accepted payment methods for the balance at pickup depend on the specific vehicle you have booked. Some vehicles allow payment by debit card or cash, while others require a credit card. The voucher you receive after booking will state exactly which payment methods are accepted for your vehicle. For more details, visit our payment methods page.

Can I pay the full amount online?

No. The booking advance is paid online to confirm your reservation. The remaining amount is settled at the pickup location with the local company. This structure is standard across all bookings and ensures that the final paperwork and vehicle inspection are completed in person when you collect the vehicle.

Deposit and Credit Card

A deposit is a separate hold placed on a card by the local provider at pickup. It is unrelated to the booking advance you pay online. Requirements differ between vehicles, and the voucher specifies what is needed for your reservation.

Do I need a credit card?

It depends on the vehicle. Some vehicles require a credit card for the deposit hold at pickup, while others accept a debit card with sufficient available funds. The requirement is vehicle-specific and is stated clearly in the booking details and in your voucher. If you do not have a credit card and choose a vehicle that requires one, contact us before arrival or select a different vehicle.

What is the deposit and when is it released?

The deposit is a temporary hold placed on your card by the local company when you collect the vehicle. It covers the excess amount in case of damage. The hold is released after you return the vehicle in the same condition, typically within a few days to two weeks depending on your card issuer. The deposit amount varies by vehicle and is specified in your voucher.

Are there vehicles available with no deposit required?

Yes. Some vehicles in our range do not require a deposit hold at pickup. This option is independent of insurance or damage cover, and the excess still applies in the event of an accident or damage. Vehicles offered without a deposit requirement are clearly marked during the booking process. For more information, see our page on 4x4 rentals with no deposit.

Documents and Age

Valid documents are required to collect any vehicle. The local company will check these at the pickup desk, so it is important to bring originals and ensure they meet the requirements for the vehicle type you have reserved.

What documents do I need to bring?

You must present a valid driving licence held for at least one year, a passport or national ID, and the booking voucher. If your licence is issued outside the EU or EEA, you also need an International Driving Permit. All documents must be original - photocopies or digital versions are not accepted. The driver presenting these documents must be the person named on the booking.

What is the minimum age to drive?

The minimum age varies by vehicle type. Most compact and standard vehicles require the driver to be at least 20 years old. Larger 4WD vehicles and pickups typically require a minimum age of 23 or 25. The age requirement is stated in the vehicle description during booking and in your voucher. The driver must also have held a valid licence for at least one year.

Pickup and Return

Collection and return procedures depend on the local company assigned to your booking. Some operate from desks at the airport or in town, others offer delivery to hotels or guesthouses. Your voucher will contain precise instructions.

Where do I collect the vehicle?

The pickup location depends on the provider handling your booking. It may be a desk inside Keflavik Airport (KEF), a nearby lot with shuttle service, a downtown Reykjavik office, or delivery to your accommodation. The exact address and instructions are provided in your voucher. If you have questions about the location, contact the local company directly using the details in the voucher, or reach us at our contact page.

What happens during the vehicle inspection?

When you collect the vehicle, the local company will walk around it with you and record any existing scratches, dents, or marks on the rental agreement. This protects both you and the provider. When you return the vehicle, the same check is done to confirm no new damage has occurred. Take photos or video on your phone as your own record before you drive away.

Can I return the vehicle outside office hours?

Some providers allow after-hours return by prior arrangement, typically by leaving the keys in a drop box. This must be arranged in advance with the local company, and is not available with all providers or locations. If your flight departs very early or very late, mention this when booking or contact the provider as soon as you receive your voucher to confirm the return procedure.

Driving in Iceland

Iceland's roads range from well-maintained tarmac on Route 1 to rough gravel tracks in the interior. Conditions change quickly, and knowing the rules and limitations of your vehicle will make your trip safer and simpler.

Can I drive on F-roads?

F-roads are mountain tracks in the Highlands, open only from June to September depending on conditions. They require a 4WD vehicle with sufficient ground clearance, and often involve river crossings. Not all 4WD vehicles are permitted on F-roads - check your rental agreement. Driving a 2WD vehicle on an F-road, or taking any vehicle on a closed road, will void your insurance and you will be liable for all damage and recovery costs.

What speed limits apply?

In urban areas the limit is 50 km/h. On paved rural roads it is 90 km/h, and on gravel roads 80 km/h. These are maximums - drive slower if conditions are poor. Speed cameras operate on main routes, and fines are issued automatically. Always reduce speed when approaching single-lane bridges, blind curves, or gravel sections, especially in wind or rain.

Do I need extra insurance or gravel protection?

The vehicle comes with basic third-party cover and collision damage waiver, but an excess applies. Gravel protection, which reduces the excess for windscreen and paint damage caused by flying stones, is available as a paid extra at pickup. Winter tyres are fitted in season at no charge. Other optional services include GPS, child seats, and an additional driver. These extras are paid to the local company when you collect the vehicle.

Changes and Cancellation

Plans can shift, especially when weather is involved. Knowing the rules around modifying or cancelling your booking will help you make informed decisions if circumstances change before your trip or during it.

Can I change my booking dates or vehicle?

Changes are possible depending on availability and the terms of your booking. Contact us as soon as you know you need to modify your reservation. If the new vehicle or dates have a different rate, you may need to pay or receive a refund for the difference. Changes requested close to the pickup date may be subject to restrictions, so reach out early if your plans are uncertain.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms depend on how far in advance you cancel and the specific conditions attached to your booking. Some reservations allow free cancellation up to a certain number of days before pickup, others may incur a fee. Full details are provided during the booking process and in your voucher. To cancel, email us at [email protected] with your booking reference.

What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

If your flight is delayed and you will arrive late, contact the local company using the details in your voucher as soon as possible. Many providers can hold the vehicle or adjust the pickup time. If your flight is cancelled and you cannot travel at all, contact us to discuss your options. We will work with you and the provider to find a solution, though standard cancellation terms may apply depending on timing.