Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you drive

Booking

Planning your trip starts with understanding how our booking process works. We make reservations straightforward - you select dates, choose your vehicle, and confirm online. Your reservation is confirmed immediately after the booking advance is processed.

How do I book a vehicle with 4Drive Serbia?

Enter your pickup and return dates and location on the homepage. Browse available vehicles, compare specifications and terms, then click to reserve. You'll fill in driver details and pay the booking advance online. A voucher arrives by email within minutes, containing all rental details and the local company's contact information.

Can I modify my reservation dates after booking?

Yes, contact us at [email protected] with your booking reference. Changes depend on vehicle availability and may affect the total amount. We'll check with the local rental company and confirm any adjustments. Early notice makes modifications easier.

What happens if the vehicle I booked is not available?

The local company provides either the exact model or an equivalent vehicle in the same category with similar specifications. If you booked a Dacia Duster, for instance, you receive a compact SUV with comparable ground clearance and luggage capacity. Specific model guarantees are not standard practice.

Payment and Advance

Understanding payment structure helps avoid confusion at pickup. You pay a booking advance online when reserving, then settle the balance when collecting the vehicle. The methods accepted for the balance vary by vehicle and appear clearly in your voucher.

What is the booking advance and how much do I pay online?

The booking advance is a portion of the total rental cost, paid by card when you confirm your reservation. The exact amount is shown before you complete booking. This secures your vehicle and is applied toward the total cost. The remaining balance is paid when you collect the keys.

Can I pay the full amount online?

No, we only accept the booking advance online. The balance must be paid directly to the local rental company at pickup. This arrangement allows them to verify documents and record the vehicle condition properly before you drive away.

What payment methods are accepted for the balance?

The accepted methods - debit card, cash, or credit card - depend on the specific vehicle you book, not the category. Your voucher states exactly which options the company accepts. Check the payment section in your confirmation carefully. For more details, visit our payment methods page.

Deposit and Credit Card

The deposit is a separate hold placed by the rental company as security against damage or traffic fines. This is independent of the rental cost and your booking advance. Requirements differ by vehicle and are stated clearly when you reserve.

Do I need a credit card to rent a vehicle?

It depends on the vehicle. Some require a credit card for the security hold, others accept a debit card. The requirement is shown on each vehicle listing and in your voucher. If you don't have a credit card and the vehicle needs one, consider raising the limit on your debit card before travel.

What is the deposit and when is it returned?

The deposit is a temporary hold the rental company places on your card as security. The amount varies by vehicle. If you return the vehicle without new damage or fines, the hold is released. Release times depend on your bank - typically 7-14 days for credit cards, sometimes longer for debit cards.

Are there vehicles with no deposit?

Yes, certain vehicles come with no deposit requirement. This means the rental company does not place a hold on your card. You still remain responsible for any damage according to the excess stated in the rental agreement. The excess and deposit are separate - having no deposit does not eliminate your liability for damage.

Documents and Age

Every driver must meet document and age requirements set by the rental company. These are non-negotiable and checked at pickup. Arriving without the correct paperwork means the company cannot release the vehicle.

What documents do I need to collect the vehicle?

You need a valid driving licence held for the period stated in your voucher, usually at least one or two years. An International Driving Permit is recommended if your licence is not in Latin script. You also need a passport or ID card and the payment card used for the booking advance or the card for the balance payment.

Can someone else drive the vehicle?

Yes, you can add additional drivers at pickup for a daily fee. Each driver must present a valid licence and meet the age requirement. The fee is paid directly to the rental company. Only drivers listed on the contract are insured to operate the vehicle.

What is the minimum age to rent a vehicle in Serbia?

Minimum age varies by vehicle type. Most standard cars require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Larger SUVs, vans, and premium models often require drivers to be 23 or 25. Check the vehicle details before booking - the age requirement is listed clearly.

Pickup and Return

Collection and return procedures depend on the local company handling your rental. Some operate desks at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG), others meet you at the terminal or deliver to your hotel in the city. Your voucher explains exactly where to go.

Where do I collect the vehicle at Belgrade Airport?

Pickup location depends on the rental company. Some have counters inside the terminal, others meet you outside with a sign. Your voucher includes precise instructions and a contact number for the local company. If you arrive and cannot locate them, call the number provided immediately.

Can I return the vehicle outside business hours?

Some companies allow after-hours drop-off, usually by leaving keys in a secure box. This must be arranged in advance. Contact the rental company before your return date to confirm availability and instructions. Extra charges may apply for out-of-hours returns.

What should I check when I collect the vehicle?

Walk around the vehicle with the company representative and note every scratch, dent, and mark on the rental agreement. Check tyre condition, lights, and fuel level. Make sure you understand the controls and any local equipment. Take photos of the exterior and interior for your records. Any existing damage must be documented before you drive away.

Driving in Serbia

Serbia drives on the right. Speed limits are 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on regional roads, and 120 km/h on motorways. An e-vignette is required for motorways and state roads - categories A and B. You can purchase it online before travel or at the border.

Can I take the vehicle across the border into neighbouring countries?

Cross-border travel to neighbouring countries is usually allowed with written permission from the rental company. You must request this at pickup, and a fee applies. The permission document lists approved countries. Driving outside Serbia without this document violates the rental agreement and voids insurance coverage.

Do I need winter tyres or chains?

From November to April, winter tyres are mandatory in Serbia. Rental companies equip vehicles with appropriate tyres for the season. If you plan to drive mountain roads like Zlatibor or Kopaonik in heavy snow, confirm tyre type and consider requesting chains when you book. Some mountain routes require chains regardless of tyre type.

What optional extras can I add to my rental?

Common extras include child seats, GPS devices, additional driver coverage, cross-border written permission, and e-vignette for motorways. These are arranged and paid for at pickup directly with the rental company. Mention your needs when you contact them or note them during booking so they prepare in advance.

Changes and Cancellation

Plans shift. We understand that. Cancellation and amendment policies depend on how far in advance you notify us and the terms attached to your specific booking. Always check your voucher for the exact conditions.

Can I cancel my booking and get a refund?

Cancellation terms vary by vehicle and booking conditions. Some reservations allow free cancellation up to a certain number of hours before pickup, others may incur a fee. Check the terms shown when you booked or review your voucher. To cancel, email us at [email protected] with your booking reference.

What if I need to return the vehicle early?

If you return the vehicle before the scheduled date, contact the rental company as soon as possible. Early returns typically do not qualify for a refund of unused days, but policies differ. The rental agreement you sign at pickup contains the specific terms. Inform both the company and us to keep records clear.

Who do I contact if I have a problem during the rental?

For issues during the rental period - breakdowns, accidents, or questions about the vehicle - contact the local rental company directly using the number in your voucher. They manage the vehicle and can provide roadside support. For billing or booking questions, reach us at [email protected] and we'll help sort it out.

Still have questions? Our team is available Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM (GMT+1). Email us at [email protected] or visit our contact page for more information.