When renting a car from Avis, one of the most important questions that often comes up is: “Can I drive this rental car across borders?”
Whether you’re planning a road trip across Europe, a business trip from the U.S. to Canada, or a scenic drive from South Africa into neighboring countries, understanding Avis’s cross-border policy is essential.
The rules and restrictions around international travel with a rental car can significantly affect your plans, insurance coverage, and costs.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain Avis’s cross-border policy in simple terms — covering how it works, what restrictions apply, what paperwork you’ll need, and how to avoid extra fees or complications when driving your rental car into another country.
What Does “Cross-Border Travel” Mean for Car Rentals?
“Cross-border travel” refers to taking a rental car from one country into another. While it sounds simple, this action involves several legal, insurance, and logistical considerations for the rental company. Avis, like most global rental agencies, has specific rules about where their vehicles can go and how far they can travel outside the country of origin.
These policies are in place because insurance coverage, road regulations, and vehicle recovery procedures differ between countries. A car that is fully insured in one country might not be covered if an accident occurs across the border.
For this reason, Avis must approve all cross-border trips in advance, and the renter must meet certain conditions before being allowed to leave the country with a rental car.
Why Avis Has a Cross-Border Policy
Avis’s cross-border policy exists to ensure safety, compliance, and financial protection for both the company and the renter. When a rental car leaves the country, several risks and complications arise:
- Insurance Coverage: Insurance agreements often vary by region, and standard coverage may not automatically apply outside the rental country.
- Customs and Import Rules: Each country has its own import and vehicle operation laws that the rental company must comply with.
- Road Assistance Limitations: Breakdown and roadside support may not be available or may cost extra in foreign countries.
- Vehicle Tracking and Recovery: If the car is stolen or damaged across the border, recovery can be difficult and expensive.
- Fleet Restrictions: Certain vehicles may not be authorized to leave their registration country due to local taxation, insurance, or licensing limits.
Because of these factors, Avis requires prior approval before any renter drives a vehicle across national borders. Without that approval, you could lose insurance protection, face heavy fines, or be held responsible for damages not covered under the rental contract.
How Avis’s Cross-Border Policy Works
When you rent a car with Avis and intend to cross into another country, you must notify the rental location before your trip begins. Avis staff will determine whether cross-border travel is permitted with your chosen vehicle, provide necessary documents, and inform you about any additional fees. The approval process depends on several factors, including the pickup location, your destination, the type of car, and local legal regulations.
- Step 1: Declare Your Intent – When booking your vehicle, mention that you plan to drive into another country. This allows Avis to verify whether the trip is allowed and to prepare the right documentation.
- Step 2: Review Eligibility – Avis will check which borders can be legally crossed with the car you’ve selected. Some vehicle types, like luxury models, may have stricter limits.
- Step 3: Get Written Authorization – If approved, Avis will provide written permission, often known as a “cross-border letter” or “green card,” proving that you’re allowed to travel internationally with the rental.
- Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees – Some rentals require an additional cross-border fee or insurance upgrade to extend coverage abroad.
Once these steps are complete, you’ll be legally and contractually allowed to take the car across specified borders. However, unauthorized travel outside the approved region can void your insurance and violate the rental agreement, potentially leading to serious penalties.
Cross-Border Travel in North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)
In North America, cross-border travel policies are among the most common inquiries Avis receives. Because the U.S., Canada, and Mexico share land borders, many travelers want to drive between these countries during business trips or vacations.
U.S. to Canada: Avis generally allows cars rented in the U.S. to be driven into Canada without major restrictions, provided you inform the rental office ahead of time.
Insurance coverage usually extends into Canada, though it’s still wise to confirm this at the counter. Some locations may provide a “Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card” to verify that your car is legally insured while driving north of the border.
U.S. to Mexico: Driving into Mexico is far more restricted. Most Avis locations in the U.S. do not permit cross-border travel into Mexico due to higher theft risk and different insurance requirements.
In a few border states like California, Arizona, and Texas, Avis may allow travel into specific regions of Mexico if you purchase special Mexican auto insurance through Avis. However, you must return the car to a U.S. location unless explicitly approved otherwise.
Canada to U.S.: If you rent a car in Canada, driving into the U.S. is generally permitted as long as Avis is notified in advance. Insurance coverage is often valid, but some Canadian provinces have specific paperwork requirements. Always ensure your rental contract includes cross-border authorization before leaving Canada.
Cross-Border Travel in Europe
Europe is one of the most common regions for cross-border car rentals, thanks to the Schengen Area and the close proximity of multiple countries. Avis allows international travel between most European countries, but there are still rules to follow.
For instance, if you rent a car in France, you can usually drive into neighboring countries such as Germany, Belgium, or Italy without much trouble. However, certain Eastern European countries have more restrictions due to insurance and vehicle tracking issues.
Avis divides Europe into “permitted” and “restricted” zones to manage risk. Cars rented in Western Europe can typically travel freely within EU nations, but taking them into countries outside the EU (such as Albania, Serbia, or Ukraine) may require written approval or might not be allowed at all.
Green Card System: When traveling in Europe, Avis often provides what’s known as a “Green Card,” an international insurance certificate that proves the car is insured for travel across European borders. This card is essential for countries outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and should always be carried in the vehicle.
Vehicle Restrictions: Luxury, sports, and high-value vehicles are usually not permitted to leave Western Europe. This includes brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi, which may not be allowed in certain Eastern or non-EU countries due to theft and insurance risks.
One-Way Rentals Across Borders: Avis allows one-way international rentals between select European countries, but these must be booked in advance and can incur higher drop-off fees. For example, you can rent a car in France and return it in Spain or Italy, but you’ll likely pay a surcharge for cross-border drop-off.
Cross-Border Policy in Other Regions
Outside North America and Europe, Avis’s cross-border policies depend heavily on local regulations and vehicle logistics. Here’s an overview of other regions where cross-border travel may be relevant:
South America: Cross-border rentals between countries like Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay are sometimes permitted, but only with advance approval and additional insurance coverage. Each country has its own entry and exit vehicle regulations, and Avis may require extra documentation such as a “vehicle circulation permit.”
Africa: In Africa, Avis allows cross-border travel between certain neighboring countries, such as from South Africa into Namibia, Botswana, or Lesotho. However, you must arrange this in advance and purchase additional cross-border insurance. Some countries, like Zimbabwe or Mozambique, may have restricted entry for rental cars unless special permission is obtained.
Asia-Pacific: Cross-border rentals in Asia are typically not allowed due to complex insurance and vehicle import rules. For instance, Avis vehicles rented in Japan cannot be taken to Korea, and cars rented in Thailand cannot legally cross into Cambodia or Malaysia. Instead, Avis recommends renting separate cars in each country.
Required Documents for Cross-Border Travel with Avis
To legally and safely drive a rental car into another country, you’ll need several key documents. Avis provides some of these, while others are your responsibility. Failing to carry proper documentation can result in denied border entry, fines, or invalid insurance coverage.
- Rental Agreement: Always carry your signed Avis rental agreement, which proves that you’re the authorized renter of the vehicle.
- Cross-Border Letter: This document, provided by Avis, authorizes you to take the car outside the rental country and may be checked at the border.
- Insurance Certificate (Green Card): In Europe and some other regions, this serves as proof of international insurance coverage.
- Driver’s License: You must have a valid driver’s license and, if required, an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Passport: Most borders will require a valid passport for identification.
- Visa (if applicable): Some countries require visas even for short visits, so check ahead of time.
- Vehicle Registration and Ownership Papers: Avis will usually provide a copy or authorization certificate proving the vehicle belongs to the rental company.
Make sure to keep all documents in the car during your trip, as they may be needed at police checkpoints or in the event of an accident.
Cross-Border Insurance Coverage Explained
Insurance coverage is one of the most crucial aspects of Avis’s cross-border policy. Not all rental insurance extends automatically beyond the country of rental. For example, your collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection might not apply once you leave the country unless you purchase supplemental coverage. Avis requires customers to confirm their insurance coverage before allowing cross-border travel.
In many cases, you may need to pay a small fee for expanded insurance that includes coverage in your destination country. Avis works with local insurers to make sure you’re legally protected wherever you drive. Always ask the rental agent to confirm that your insurance applies internationally — especially for theft, accidents, and third-party damage.
Cross-Border Fees and Deposits
Avis may charge a cross-border fee when you plan to drive into another country. This fee varies depending on the region, distance, and type of vehicle. It covers the administrative costs, insurance extensions, and legal permissions required for international driving. The amount might range from a few dollars per day to a one-time fee, depending on your location and route.
In addition, Avis may place a higher security deposit on your credit card when authorizing cross-border travel. This deposit protects against potential damage, theft, or additional costs incurred outside the home country. Once the car is returned in good condition, the deposit is released as usual.
What Happens If You Cross the Border Without Permission
Driving a rental car into another country without Avis’s authorization is considered a breach of contract. This can lead to several consequences:
- Loss of Insurance Coverage: If an accident or theft occurs, you’ll be fully responsible for all damages, as insurance becomes invalid.
- Penalties and Fines: Avis may impose penalties, and border authorities could fine you for improper vehicle entry.
- Recovery Costs: If the car breaks down or is damaged, you may have to pay for recovery and towing costs back to the rental country.
- Legal Liability: You could face legal action for violating customs or vehicle import regulations.
To avoid these risks, always get written authorization before leaving the country. It’s a simple process that ensures you remain protected throughout your journey.
Tips for Smooth Cross-Border Travel with Avis
Traveling internationally by car can be one of the most exciting ways to explore new places — if done correctly. Here are some key tips to make your cross-border trip with Avis hassle-free:
- Plan Ahead: Notify Avis about your travel plans before your trip begins. This avoids last-minute complications at the counter.
- Check Local Laws: Road rules, toll systems, and required safety equipment vary by country. Research in advance.
- Carry All Documents: Keep your cross-border letter, insurance papers, and identification easily accessible.
- Use GPS and Offline Maps: Cellular service can vary between countries, so prepare navigation tools ahead of time.
- Be Aware of Border Hours: Some land borders close at night or have limited hours of operation.
- Refuel Before Crossing: Fuel prices and availability can differ significantly across borders.
- Avoid Unauthorized Drivers: Only authorized renters and additional drivers listed on the contract should drive across borders.
By preparing properly and following Avis’s rules, you can ensure your international road trip is safe, legal, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Avis’s cross-border policy is designed to balance traveler freedom with legal and insurance responsibilities. While it might seem restrictive at first, it exists to ensure your safety and protect you from the significant risks of driving internationally without proper coverage.
Whether you’re crossing from the U.S. into Canada, exploring Europe’s scenic highways, or traveling between African nations, Avis provides clear guidelines and support for authorized cross-border trips.
Always remember to declare your travel plans in advance, get written authorization, and confirm that your insurance and documentation are valid in every country you plan to visit. Doing so not only keeps you compliant with Avis’s policies but also guarantees peace of mind throughout your journey.
With the right preparation and understanding of Avis’s cross-border policy, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road across multiple countries — safely, legally, and confidently.
