BEFORE YOUR RENTAL
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
- Valid ID or passport.
- Valid driver’s license held for more than one year. It must be valid in Portugal.
- Payment method (credit card, Revolut, cash, etc.).
BOOKING
- Booking must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
- Remember to book your extras (additional driver, young driver under 23, child seat, airport pick-up, etc.).
- Check the details of your booking (dates, times, pick-up location).
- Let us know promptly if you will be late to pick up the vehicle.
PAYMENT
The balance of the rental must be paid in advance if the vehicle is self-pickup, or on the day of pick-up at the agency. The deposit paid at the time of booking will be automatically deducted from the remaining balance to be paid.SECURITY DEPOSIT
At Cool Wheels Olhão, we understand that managing a security deposit for vehicle rentals can sometimes be stressful, especially for travelers in Portugal who may not be familiar with local practices. That’s why we offer several flexible options to meet your needs:- Classic Deposit: You can pay a €800 security deposit via bank transfer (at least 48 hours before the rental begins), by credit card, via Revolut, or in cash on the day of vehicle pick-up.
- E-deposit with Swikly: A convenient and secure online service where no amount is charged or blocked on your bank account. This service is charged at €10. Learn more about the secure e-deposit.
- Credit Card Authorization: For credit card holders (not debit cards), it’s possible to block the deposit amount without charging it.
- No Deposit Insurance: For €25 per day, you can waive the security deposit entirely.
DURING YOUR RENTAL
CONTACT & ASSISTANCE
- Local emergency number: 112 (emergency services, police).
- Cool Wheels Olhão Assistance: +351 914 069 298.
IN OLHÃO
- Recommended parking: list of parking in Olhão.
- Gas stations near the agency:
- Car wash stations near the agency:
ROAD RULES & DRIVING TIPS IN PORTUGAL
- Respect speed limits: Be aware of road signs and obey speed limits. Portugal has many fixed and mobile speed cameras, along with regular checks that can lead to immediate fines.
- Toll roads: In the Algarve, tolls are free, but in other parts of Portugal, they may apply. Drivers are responsible for ensuring tolls are paid where required. Note that no “Via Verde” device is installed in our vehicles.
- Park in authorized areas: Pay for parking where required to avoid fines.
- Be vigilant at pedestrian crossings: In Portugal, drivers must always yield to pedestrians.
LEAVING THE COUNTRY
Cool Wheels Olhão allows you to take the vehicle to Spain, for an additional charge of €50, provided you notify us at the time of booking.IN CASE OF INFRACTION
- If you commit an infraction (speeding, unpaid parking, road violations, etc.), you are responsible for paying the fine directly to the authorities.
- Any infraction reported to Cool Wheels Olhão will be forwarded to the police and, if necessary, to the border services to ensure payment.
IN CASE OF ACCIDENT
- Contact 112 immediately for police and emergency services to intervene, assess the accident, and file a report.
- Then, inform Cool Wheels Olhão as soon as possible to report the incident.
IMPORTANT
- Cool Wheels Olhão has a strict policy on infractions: Any infraction (speeding, unpaid parking, rule violations) will be reported to the police and border services to ensure the fines are paid.
BEFORE RETURNING YOUR VEHICLE
CHECK-LIST
- Fill up the tank: The vehicle must be returned with a full tank of fuel, otherwise a fee of €70 will be applied.
- Return the vehicle clean: The vehicle should be in a reasonably clean condition (no sand, mud, or waste), otherwise a fee of €50 will apply.
- Secure parking: Park the vehicle in a safe and free location before returning it.
- Check your personal belongings: Make sure you don’t leave anything behind in the vehicle (glove compartment, under the seats, trunk, etc.).
- Lock the vehicle: Ensure the windows are closed, lights are off, and the vehicle is properly locked before dropping off the keys.
- Drop off the keys: Return the keys and documents according to the instructions provided by Cool Wheels Olhão.
- Report any issues: In case of damage, deterioration, or any other issue, inform the agency before returning the vehicle.