Rental car pickup checklist: video, tires, papers

Rental car pickup checklist starts with a slow video walk-around and clear photos. A rental car pickup checklist also covers tires, lights, cockpit warnings, and what goes into the paperwork.

Rental car pickup checklist: 5 must-do checks

• Exterior and glass. Film the car from all sides, then add close-ups of every scratch, dent, scuff, and chip on the windshield; include roof, bumpers, sills, pillars, and the edges of each door and trunk lid.
• Wheels and tires. Record each wheel straight on and at an angle; capture tread wear, valve caps, and any sidewall bulges or cuts; film lower bumper lips and sills, then slide the phone under the car for the subframe and exhaust.
• Lights, wipers, horn, mirrors. Switch on low/high beam, turn signals, brake and reverse lights; test washer jets and wipers; adjust mirrors and check the horn; roll a few meters to feel brakes and steering track straight.
• Cabin and dashboard. Start the engine and look for warning lights; test A/C, heater, seat belts, 12V/USB ports, Bluetooth/CarPlay/Android Auto, and the audio; check phone mount; in the trunk confirm spare or repair kit with jack and wrench, warning triangle, and first‑aid kit; if you need a child seat (included in DRACARS price), check the fit and straps.
• Evidence and notes. Photograph the number plate, odometer, and current fuel level; keep files time‑stamped and backed up; make sure visible marks are reflected in the paperwork you sign; check that registration and the user manual are in the glovebox; list any accessories handed over (child seat, cables).

Why video matters at DRACARS

Handover takes about 10–15 minutes and DRACARS records the car’s condition on video during pickup. That protects you from the classic risk: being blamed for a scratch that was already there. Add your own photos and short clips from closer angles; two independent records clearly document pre‑existing marks. If you spot anything extra, have it described in writing before you drive off. Back up your files to the cloud before you leave the lot.

Georgia specifics to bake into your check

Roads in Georgia mix smooth highways with mountain passes and occasional unpaved segments, especially toward Kazbegi, Svaneti, and remote valleys. In the mountains you can go, except on premium cars and low sedans; if that’s your plan, pay extra attention to tire condition and ground‑clearance marks. Unpaved roads aren’t banned, but tire and underbody damage is on the renter, so film the underbody carefully and avoid sharp rocks. From November DRACARS installs winter tires; in cold months verify they’re fitted and the tread is healthy. If you still choose a route with rough sections, consider a taller body type from the DRACARS fleet.

Insurance that shapes your inspection

Full comprehensive insurance is included. With 2+ years of driving experience there’s no deductible; with less than 2 years there is a deductible that depends on the car, and the exact amount is quoted at booking. Tires and the underbody are not covered anywhere, including on gravel or mountain roads, so document their condition well. Insurance is void if the driver is intoxicated. In case of an accident, do not move the car, call 112, and notify the company.

Paperwork, contacts, and handover flow

Have your passport and your original driver’s license; licenses from any country are accepted, so no International Driving Permit is required. A second driver can be added for free if they are 21 or older and have at least 1 year of driving experience; list them at pickup. Save contacts: +995 574 038 531 (phone/WhatsApp) and Telegram @dracarsrental. Before signing, check that all visible marks you filmed are mentioned, and that plate number and mileage match your photos. When you’re ready, choose a car in the DRACARS fleet here: /en/fleet

In short

Film everything, test essentials, and have visible marks reflected in what you sign; DRACARS also records a pickup video, which reduces risks for both sides. Check tires and the car’s underside extra carefully because they aren’t insured, and confirm winter tires in season. Pick your car.