Before you collect your self-drive rental in Goa, make sure you have the right documents ready. Missing paperwork is the number-one reason for delayed handovers at Dabolim and Mopa airports. Here is exactly what you need.
Documents for Indian Residents
- Valid driving licence — must be at least 1 year old, with Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) endorsement
- Identity proof — Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID (original + photocopy)
- Address proof — if different from licence address, carry Aadhaar or utility bill
- Security deposit — ₹3,000 (standard) or ₹30,000 (luxury), via UPI, card, or cash
Minimum age: 21 years with 1 year driving experience.
Documents for International Tourists
- Valid passport — with valid Indian visa or visa-on-arrival stamp
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — issued in your home country before travel, OR valid home country licence + IDP
- Indian driving licence — if you have one, it can be used instead of IDP
- Credit/debit card — for security deposit (₹3,000–₹30,000 depending on vehicle)
Foreign nationals cannot rent with only a home-country licence — an IDP or Indian licence is mandatory under Indian motor vehicle rules.
Security Deposit Explained
| Vehicle Tier | Deposit Amount | Refund Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Economy, SUV, MUV) | ₹3,000 | 3–5 business days after return |
| Premium (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Mini) | ₹30,000 | 3–5 business days after return |
The deposit covers potential damage, traffic fines, or excess km charges. It is fully refundable if the car is returned in the same condition. We document the vehicle with photos at both handover and return.
What Is NOT Accepted
- Learner's licence (LL) — not valid for self-drive rental
- Expired driving licence
- Photocopy-only submission without original for verification
- Renting on someone else's licence — the licence holder must be the primary driver
Document Tips for Smooth Handover
- Keep originals and one photocopy set in your carry-on bag
- Ensure your licence name matches your booking name exactly
- For airport pickup, WhatsApp document photos 24 hours before arrival for pre-verification
- International tourists: apply for IDP at least 2 weeks before travel
Ready to book? Reserve your car online or call +91 70304 40306. See our complete self-drive guide for pricing and fleet details.
