How to Choose a Car Rental in Kyiv: 8 Things to Check Before Booking

The daily rate in the listing is only part of the rental cost. Before booking, it’s important to check eight things: these affect how much you’ll actually pay and what happens if something goes wrong. Below is a checklist and examples based on Apex Rent Car’s terms.

1. The rate depends on the rental period

In most rentals, the daily rate decreases as the rental period gets longer. We have four rates: 1–3, 4–10, 11–25, and 26+ days. For example, a Volkswagen Passat costs $55 per day for 1–3 days and $25 per day for rentals of 26 days or more. So “from $25” in ads almost always means a long-term rental — be sure to check the price for your specific dates.

2. Deposit amount and how it’s refunded

The deposit is the main amount you need when picking up the car. Ask three things: how much, in what form, and when it’s returned. Our deposits range from $400 to $4,000 depending on the car, paid at pickup by card or cash, and refunded when the car is returned without damage or fines. If paying a deposit is inconvenient, there’s a paid “No Deposit” option: +35% to the rate (for exclusive cars +50%), minimum 3 days rental, driver age from 25 years, and driving experience from 3 years.

3. Mileage limit and overage charges

Check how many kilometers are included in the price. We include 300 km per day, accumulated over the entire rental period. Overage costs range from $0.15 to $0.50 per km depending on the car class. Unlimited mileage for the whole rental costs from $40 (economy) to $150 (exclusive). If you plan to travel around Ukraine, calculate your route in advance.

4. Insurance and your liability

Ask what insurance is included in the price and how much you are liable for in case of damage. Our price includes comprehensive insurance (КАСКО) and third-party liability insurance (ОСЦПВ), and your liability in an accident caused by you is limited to the deposit amount.

5. Delivery and return

It’s important where and when you pick up the car. We provide free delivery and pickup within Kyiv and to Brovary, Irpin, Bucha, Boryspil, and Bila Tserkva. For other cities, the fee is $0.5 per km from Kyiv one way, minimum $50. Car handover without extra charge is daily from 10:00 to 19:00; outside these hours by arrangement, +$15.

6. Driver requirements and documents

Usually a passport and driver’s license are required. Our driver age minimum is 20 years, with at least 2 years driving experience. A second driver and child seat are free of charge.

7. Crossing the border

If you’re traveling to Europe, check if the rental company allows it and what it costs. We allow travel to any European country: Green Card insurance and a notarized power of attorney are prepared within 3–4 days. This option costs $150 per trip up to 30 days (for premium and exclusive cars — $250).

8. What else is included in the price

Clarify who pays for maintenance, tires, and what happens in case of breakdown. We cover maintenance and seasonal tires, and are available via messenger 24/7. Fuel (the car must be returned with the same fuel level) and traffic fines are paid separately.

Calculation example

Volkswagen Passat for 7 days: 7 × $45 = $315 rental cost. At pickup, you pay a $500 deposit — refunded after returning the car without damage or fines. Delivery within Kyiv, 300 km per day, comprehensive and liability insurance, second driver, and child seat are included. Fuel is your responsibility.

Current prices for all cars and deposit amounts are on the “Prices and Deposits” page, terms are on the “Rental Conditions” page. Booking on the website is a request: a manager confirms the car and dates.