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Journey from Dover to London by Car Rental

Explore England’s iconic cities with the convenience of a one-way car rental.

Can I rent a car from Dover to London?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Dover to London. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for GB residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical Germany national photo ID or United Kingdom national photo ID.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and in some cases, UnionPay and JCB. Some policies support XpCard, DcCard, or UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-80 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees, such as EUR 12.9-66.36 per day or capped amounts. Specific fees vary by age and rental terms.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year. Accepted driving licence include:
    • EU Driving Licence
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
    • Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English or
    • UK Driving License (with DVLA check code/DVLA endorsement record).

    Notes: Non-local licenses from countries that are part of the International Driving Permit Agreement must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit. Renters with licences from countries that are not part of the International Driving Permit Agreement should ensure proper translation or authorization.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and in some cases, UnionPay and JCB. Some policies support XpCard, DcCard, or UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be between 18-80 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur additional fees, such as EUR 12.9-66.36 per day or capped amounts. Specific fees vary by age and rental terms.
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How much does renting a car from Dover to London cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 49/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 55/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 164-US$ 261US$ 0-US$ 43US$ 145-US$ 312Solo travelers, couples
LargeUS$ 234-US$ 573US$ 0-US$ 43US$ 406-US$ 507Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 177-US$ 459US$ 0-US$ 43US$ 163-US$ 406Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 250-US$ 370US$ 0-US$ 43US$ 310-US$ 895Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-way fee considerations: Check if your rental agreement includes a one-way fee to cover return logistics for the vehicle.
  • Cross-border restrictions: Confirm if the vehicle can be taken across borders, especially if planning to travel outside the UK.
  • Vehicle availability: Ensure the specific vehicle type you need is available for one-way travel on your route.
  • Rental agreement terms: Review the agreement terms for restrictions or additional requirements for one-way rentals.
  • Drop-off location accessibility: Verify the confirmation of the final drop-off location in London for ease of vehicle return.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route in advance: Identify the optimal route from Dover to London considering driving times and road closures.
  • Refueling policies of rental agencies: Be aware of ‘Full-to-Full’ fuel policies to avoid additional charges.
  • Inspect your rental vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any damage prior to departure and document it.
  • Have valid documentation: Carry your driver’s license, rental agreement, and personal identification at all times.
  • Account for traffic conditions: Adjust your travel plans to avoid peak times or areas prone to high congestion.
  • Look for fuel stations near drop-off: Identify fuel stations near the London drop-off point to refuel before returning the car.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car to the same fuel level as at the start of the rental to avoid additional charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling when returning the car.

Using a gas station near the drop-off location can save time and ensure accurate refueling.

Fuel Cost

The estimated average fuel cost for this route is approximately £1.60 per liter.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control when possible to conserve fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce fuel consumption.

Avoid idling for long periods as it wastes fuel unnecessarily.

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Dover Parking

Dover offers various parking options near the ferry terminal with rates starting from £5 per day.

Street parking is available but may have time restrictions.

Consider using Park and Ride services for convenient access to major areas.

London Parking

Parking in London can be expensive, with rates reaching up to £50 per day in central areas.

Look for parking garages or lots outside the congestion zone to save money.

Use apps or websites to reserve parking spaces in advance for better availability.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like JustPark, Parkopedia, and NCP provide real-time parking availability and booking options.

RingGo allows you to pay for on-street parking digitally.

YourParkingSpace offers affordable private parking options in London.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Explore Key Routes Between Dover and London:
Dover to London via M20
Fastest Route 1 hour 50 minutes

This direct route via the M20 motorway takes drivers through scenic Kent countryside, providing a swift connection to London.

Canterbury , Maidstone , Greenwich
Dover to London Scenic Route via A2
Scenic Route 2 hours 30 minutes

A more picturesque alternative that passes through charming villages and historic landmarks along the A2 road.

Canterbury , Rochester , Greenwich
Coastal Route via A257
Leisurely Route 3 hours

Traveling along the coast, this route provides beautiful views of the English Channel and neighboring towns.

Deal , Whitstable , Greenwich
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Vehicle Selection: Choose a car suitable for your trip duration and luggage requirements for comfort and efficiency.

Budget Planning: Set a budget for fuel, tolls, and optional stops to effectively manage costs.

Route Familiarization: Familiarize yourself with possible routes to enjoy a seamless travel experience.

Refueling Tips: Identify refueling stations along your route to avoid running low on fuel.

Scenic Stops: Plan your journey with scenic or historic stops to enhance your travel experience.

Travel Safety: Ensure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies and you follow traffic rules at all times.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$★★★★☆★★★★★ Large network of locations , Excellent customer service , Wide variety of rental vehicles
Hertz$$$★★★★☆★★★★★ Rewards program for frequent renters , Options for luxury vehicles , Available in most major cities
Avis$$★★★☆☆★★★★☆ Convenient mobile app , Dedicated customer support for business renters , Convenient city and airport locations
Sixt$$★★★★★★★★☆☆ Competitive pricing , Luxury and prestige vehicles , User-friendly booking experience
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Information About Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most car rental centers in Dover and London operate between 8 AM and 8 PM, with some locations offering 24-hour services.

Location of Rental Centers:

In Dover, rental centers are found near the port and city center. In London, they are available at major transportation hubs, including airports and city locations.

Shuttle Frequency:

Shuttle services are available every 15-30 minutes for airport pickups and drop-offs.

Pro Tips for Dover Castle Car Rentals

Verify the one-way rental terms before booking to understand all potential fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are needed to rent a car for a one-way trip between Dover and London?

You will typically need a valid driver's license, a credit card, and a government-issued ID or passport. It's recommended to review your rental company's document requirements beforehand.

Are there extra fees for a one-way car rental from Dover to London?

Yes, one-way fees may apply as the vehicle will need to be returned to its original fleet location. These fees vary by company, so check the rental agreement for specifics.

How long does it take to drive from Dover to London?

The drive between Dover and London usually takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic and the specific route chosen.

Can I choose the car model for my one-way rental?

Most rental agencies allow you to select a vehicle category such as compact, sedan, or SUV. Specific models may be subject to availability and are not guaranteed.

Are there any restrictions on where I can pick up or drop off the vehicle?

Pickup and drop-off locations will depend on the rental agency’s available outlets. Confirm with the provider to ensure they support this specific route and your desired locations.

Ready to Book Your Dover to London Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes