Updated: 12 November 2026
Key points of the agreement
- Parties and car — owner’s and driver’s details, make, model, plate number, VIN.
- Rent — the weekly amount, which days it applies to and how it’s paid. At Optymist we deduct the rent in the driver’s settlement and pass it to the owner.
- Deposit — whether there is one, how much, and when it’s returned.
- Damage — who pays the excess when the driver is at fault, and when they aren’t.
- Fines and speed cameras — the driver pays fines. State that the driver is responsible for offences while they had the car.
- Servicing — who books services, what happens on breakdown, whether there’s a replacement car.
- Fuel and cleanliness — the condition the car is returned in.
- Termination — how much notice each side must give.
Handover record
When handing over and returning the car, make a record: date and time, mileage, fuel level, photos of every side and the interior, and an equipment list (roof sign, taximeter, first-aid kit, triangle, extinguisher). It’s the easiest way to avoid disputes over scratches.
Speed camera letters
When a speed camera letter arrives, the owner is asked to name who was driving. So record the dates and times the car was with the driver — the handover record is enough.
For drivers
- Read the agreement before signing and ask about anything unclear.
- Take your own photos of the car when you collect it.
- Report faults straight away, in writing or by message.
See also: renting a car for taxi work and how much a car owner earns.
FAQ
Who pays speed camera fines on a rented car?
The driver who was driving. The owner names them based on the handover record.
Is a deposit required?
No, but if there is one, put the amount and refund conditions in the agreement.
What goes in a car handover record?
Date and time, mileage, fuel, photos of the car and an equipment list.
