Vintage car rental: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What vintage car rental is

A vintage car rental supplies a classic automobile with a driver or on loan for weddings, photo shoots or special events, with the details agreed in advance. You need it when a classic car would make the day or the photos stand out.

Signs you need it

  • You want a classic car for a wedding, photo shoot or special event
  • You are planning a themed party or film project that needs a period car
  • You want a car that matches the look of an event
  • You want a driver and a car for a short, special trip
  • You need a car that is insured and in good condition for a special occasion

What the pro does

  • Confirms the date, the event details and the route with you
  • Chooses a classic car that fits the look and size of the event
  • Inspects and cleans the car before the event
  • Delivers the car to the agreed place and sets up any decorations
  • Collects the car after the event and checks it for any damage

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The age, rarity and condition of the car
  • Whether the car is rented with a driver or on loan
  • The length of the booking and any travel distance
  • Whether décor, ribbons or a photo setup is added
  • Whether delivery and pickup are included
  • The event date, such as a weekend or holiday

What a written quote should spell out

  • The car make, model and year
  • The booking length and the pickup and return times
  • Whether a driver is included
  • Delivery, pickup and any travel fees
  • The deposit, insurance and damage terms

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Is the car insured for this use, and who is covered if it is damaged?
  • How do you protect the car from weather and dirt?
  • What is the deposit, and when is it returned?
  • Do you bring a driver, or do I need to arrange one?
  • Can I see the car in person before booking?
  • What are the rules on food, drinks and passengers in the car?

Red flags

  • Will not show insurance for the car or the driver
  • Asks for a large deposit with no written contract
  • Does not let you see the car before the day
  • Takes the car out of your event without telling you

What you can do yourself

You can plan the route, the timing and the photo spots, and confirm the car's condition with photos before the day. Ask for the damage and insurance terms in writing. Book early for popular dates, since classic cars are limited.

Licenses and permits

Rules for renting out a vehicle, and for carrying passengers for pay, differ by place. Check with your state or local licensing agency or transport authority, and ask the company to show its insurance.

Vintage car rental questions

Can a vintage car be used on a public road for an event?

It depends on the car's registration and the event. Ask the company whether the car is road legal for the route.

What if the car breaks down on the day?

Ask how the company handles breakdowns and whether it provides a backup car or a tow. Put that plan in the contract.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Usually yes. Ask how the deposit is held and what it covers.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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