Zoom, Zoom, Zoom: Your Ultimate Guide to Renting Cars & Scooters in Taiwan!

A Comprehensive Guide

Hey there, road warrior! 🚗🛵 Dreaming of the open road, wind in your hair, and the freedom to explore Taiwan's hidden gems?

Whether you're a four-wheel aficionado or a two-wheel enthusiast, we've got the ultimate guide to get you vrooming around Taiwan like a pro.

While Taiwan boasts a commendable public transportation system, it only scratches the surface of what the island has to offer. Depending solely on public transport may limit your experiences, preventing you from immersing yourself in the heart and soul of the country.

While hailing taxis for every journey, reminiscent of the luxury some affluent individuals might opt for, is an option, it might not be the most economical choice. Instead, consider renting a vehicle.

This will not only be cost-effective but will also grant you access to the serene, picturesque, and often untouched locales that can only truly be appreciated when you have the freedom of your own transport.

So, let's shift gears and dive right in!.

Why Rent a Car in Taiwan?
Taiwan isn't just about bubble tea and night markets. Picture this: cruising through the breathtaking Taroko Gorge with your favorite tunes blasting, or winding your way up to the serene heights of Alishan at sunrise. While the MRT is nifty, some of Taiwan's best spots are off the beaten track. And that's where your trusty four-wheeled steed comes in!

Booking Your Ride:
From global giants like Avis to local heroes, Taiwan's car rental scene is buzzing. Starting your journey in Taipei? Explore the city's nooks and crannies first (trust us, parking's a game of Tetris here).

And when you're ready to hit the open road, platforms like KKDay have got your back.

Eligibility & The Nitty-Gritty:

Age matters! Most places want you to be 21 and above.

Got your International Driving Permit (IDP)? Fabulous! Just ensure it's stamped for Taiwan.

Remember, in Taiwan, we drive on the right. Yep, just like the USA. No British inversions here!

On the Road Tips:

Taiwan's roads are smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter. But city driving during rush hour? That's a whole different ball game.

Gas stations are plenty, and they love your credit card. But if you're heading into the wild, fill 'er up!

Watch out for tolls and sneaky speed cameras. They're everywhere, and they're watching.

Parking & Navigation:
Most hotels are car-friendly, and tourist spots are pretty accommodating. But a word to the wise: always double-check where you park.

As for navigation, Google Maps is your best buddy. But always have a backup plan (or map)

Why Scooters?
Imagine zipping through traffic, parking almost anywhere, and feeling the thrill of the open road. That's the scooter life in Taiwan!

Eligibility & The Scoop: Do you need a scooter license?

It varies by location. In the countryside or certain outer islands, it might not be a concern. However, in rural areas of Taiwan, an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is often acceptable. For the smaller 50cc scooters, some cities may not mandate a license, but for the larger models, an international license is a must. Also, always have your passport with you; its necessity can be unpredictable.

Cities mandating a local Taiwanese Scooter License include:

Taichung, Taipei, Magong, and Chishang. Also, in Tainan, Hualien and Yilian some select shops permit rentals with an IDP; otherwise, a local license is essential

Cities recognizing an international driver’s permit include:

Tainan, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, Nantou's Sun Moon Lake and Jiji, Taitung, Hualien (with the inclusion of Pony Leasing and Rental Group), Ruisui, Kenting, Jiaoxi, Nanzhuang, Jiji, along with surrounding offshore islands.

No license is needed:

In some offshore islands like Xiaoliuqiu, Green Island, and Lanyu, as well as in certain parts of Chiayi.

Booking Your Scooter:
From local shops to platforms like KKday.com, there's a scooter with your name on it.

Cost: Ranges from 400 NT to 1200 NT daily based on the scooter type.

Distance: Gas scooters go up to 150 KM, while electric ones range between 20-80 KM, model-dependent.

Refueling: While the majority run on gas, Gogoro scooters offer battery exchange at GoStations.

On the Road Tips:

1. You're not allowed to drive on national highways, freeways, the area in front of Taipei Main Station, and certain inner lanes of multi-lane roads.

2. When making most left turns, use the two-step method: first, pull over to the intersection's right and halt in a designated white box until the signal turns green.

3. If the intersection lacks such markings and is small, you might be able to turn left directly.

4. Right turns on red are prohibited.

5. Given the abundance of scooters, always check your blind spots and behind you when turning right. Signal early, move cautiously, and continuously check mirrors and blind spots for safety.

6. Be aware of speed and red light cameras as they're the primary means of traffic regulation in Taiwan and are ubiquitous.

7. Minor accidents might be simpler to resolve without police involvement, but always check with your rental agency about their accident policies.

8. Avoid bus-only lanes in Taipei City.

9. Some roads feature a scooter lane on the right.

10. When venturing into the mountains, ensure your scooter is well-fueled. At blind corners, round mirrors are installed to help you check for incoming traffic from both directions.

Parking Tips:
Taiwan loves scooters, and there's usually plenty of parking. Just ensure your ride is locked up tight and avoid leaving your superhero cape (or any valuables) behind.

What Do I Need to Carry:

Consider bringing rain gear, although it's typically provided. Helmets are guaranteed. Note that some may drain the fuel before handing it over, so immediate refueling might be necessary.

Lately, numerous electric scooter-sharing services have emerged in Taiwan's major cities. These platforms are convenient, allowing users to sign up via an app and rent scooters anytime, 24/7, directly from their phones.

After use, just park in any authorized scooter parking space. However, they're restricted to big cities and necessitate a local Taiwanese scooter license for rental.

Notable companies in this sector include:

KKday:

​Locations: Currently available in Taipei, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hsinchu, Taitung, and Hualien. You can use the online website.

Local Scooter License required: No, you can use an international license (IDP)! You will also need to show your passport.

Price: 400 NT - 1200 NT per day depending on the model

Range: 150 KM for gas scooters, and 20-80 KM for electric scooters depending on the model

Charging: Most scooters are gas powered, but for the Gogoro models you can swap batteries at GoStations.

Goshare:

Locations: Currently available in Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Tainan, and Yunlin. You need to download the app to be able to rent the scooters.

Local Scooter License required: Yes. You will also need at least a Taiwan 50 cc scooter license to ride the VIVA and with a 150cc license you can ride all electric scooter types.

Price: 15 or 25 NT for the first 6 minutes (depending on the model), and 2.5 NT per minute afterward.

Range: 20-80 Km depending on the model

Charging: Swap batteries at GoStations

iRent:

Locations: Currently available in Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung.

Local Scooter License required: Yes. You need to download the app to be able to rent their scooters. You will also need a local Taiwan scooter license to rent, which can be hard if you a foreign tourist.

Price: 10 NT for the first 6 minutes, and 1.5 NT per minute afterward, with a daily maximum rental payment of 300 NT.

Range: 20-80 Km depending on the model

Charging: Swap batteries Ionex stations

WeMo:

Locations: Available in Taipei, urban New Taipei, and downtown Kaohsiung.

Local Scooter License required: No, you can use an international license!

Price: 15 NT for the first 6 minutes, and 2.5 NT per minute afterward, with a 24 hour rental fee of 350 NT.

Charging: No way to charge. You need to swap vehicles

So, there you have it, folks! Your ultimate guide to conquering Taiwan's roads. Whether you're in a car humming to the radio or on a scooter feeling every bit of the breeze, remember to stay safe and enjoy the journey. And if you've got any more travel queries or just want to share your epic road trip tales, give us a shout at Amaiwan Traveler. We're all ears!

Ready for your next adventure? 🌍✈️ Contact Amaiwan Traveler for all your travel-related info. We're just a click away! Safe travels and see you on the road! 🚗🛵🌆