If you’re planning a trip to Manila and want to explore beyond the city—maybe Tagaytay, Batangas, or other nearby spots—renting a car is a great idea.
That said, driving in Manila itself is a whole different adventure. The traffic is intense, the roads are busy, and local rules are… unique. But don’t worry! Here’s everything you need to know about car rentals in Manila in 2026.
Content
Rental Requirements
Most international and local car rental companies follow similar rules. Here’s the gist:
- Driver’s License: Foreign visitors can use a valid license for up to 90 days. If it’s not in English, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Age: Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21–25 years old. Drivers under 25 may pay a “Young Driver” fee of around ₱500/day.
- Documents: Foreigners need a passport and proof of arrival (like an e-ticket). Locals need two government IDs.
- Security Deposit: Be ready for a hold on your credit card from ₱10,000 to ₱30,000, depending on the car. BOOK: Rent a Car in Manila
Estimated Costs & Popular Rental Companies
Here’s a rough idea of daily rental rates:
| Vehicle Type | Example Model | Daily Rate (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy/Mini | Toyota Wigo, Honda Brio | ₱1,300 – ₱2,000 |
| Compact Sedan | Toyota Vios, Honda City | ₱2,500 – ₱3,500 |
| SUV (7-Seater) | Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero | ₱4,500 – ₱6,500 |
| Van (Large Group) | Toyota Hiace, Nissan Urvan | ₱5,000 – ₱8,000 |
Rental Agencies:
- International: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget (great for airport pickups)
- Local: Top Car Rental Manila, Viajero Rent A Car (more flexible options with drivers)
Navigating Manila Traffic
Manila is notorious for its traffic, so a little prep goes a long way:
- Number Coding Scheme: Cars with certain last digits on their plates are banned from main roads on specific days.
- Mon: 1,2 | Tue: 3,4 | Wed: 5,6 | Thu: 7,8 | Fri: 9,0
- Hours: Usually 7–10 AM and 5–8 PM, but some cities like Makati enforce it all day.
- Toll Roads & RFID: Roads like SLEX, NLEX, and Skyway use RFID for tolls. Most rentals include it, but confirm if the balance is loaded or if you need to reimburse the agency. Avoid cash lanes—they’re much slower.
- Navigation Apps: Waze is a lifesaver in Manila. It’s aggressive with shortcuts and often accounts for number-coding rules if you add your plate number. BOOK: CAR RENTAL IN MANILA
Expert Tips for Manila
- Consider a Driver: Many travelers rent a car with a driver for only ₱1,000–₱2,000 extra per day. It’s worth it to avoid the stress of traffic, parking, and Manila’s aggressive drivers.
- Check for Flooding: June–October is rainy season. Streets can flood quickly, so avoid small cars if heavy rain is forecasted.
- Insurance (CDW): Always get the Collision Damage Waiver. Without it, you could pay a Participation Fee, often 1% of the car’s total value.
- Parking: Apps like Dibz help find parking. Major malls (SM, Ayala) are usually safe. Street parking? Risky—your car could get clamped or towed.
Renting a car in Manila opens up a lot of options for exploring the Philippines beyond the city. With a little preparation, the right vehicle, and some local tips, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable trip.
Car Rental in Manila: FAQ
1. Can I use my foreign driver’s license to rent a car in Manila?
Yes! You can use a valid foreign license for up to 90 days, as long as it’s in English. If it’s not, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
2. How much does it usually cost to rent a car in Manila?
It depends on the type of car. Economy cars like a Toyota Wigo cost around ₱1,300–₱2,000/day, sedans like a Toyota Vios are ₱2,500–₱3,500/day, SUVs are ₱4,500–₱6,500/day, and large vans are ₱5,000–₱8,000/day.
3. Is it better to rent a car with a driver?
If you’re planning to drive around Manila, yes! Traffic is intense, parking is tricky, and local driving can be aggressive. Renting with a driver usually costs only ₱1,000–₱2,000 extra per day and saves a lot of stress.
4. What should I know about Manila traffic rules?
Three main things:
- Number coding restricts cars on certain roads by plate number during peak hours.
- Toll roads like SLEX, NLEX, and Skyway usually require an RFID tag.
- Navigation apps like Waze are your best friend for avoiding gridlock.
5. Do I need insurance for a rental car?
Absolutely. Always get the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Without it, you could be responsible for a Participation Fee, which is usually 1% of the car’s value—pretty costly if something happens.
