FAQ – Temporary Transit (TT) Car Rental
Rent a brand-new car in Europe

Everything travelers need to know about the Temporary Transit (TT) program: a brand-new car with red plates, full insurance, no deposit, and unlimited mileage during your stay in Europe.

Understanding Temporary Transit (TT) and Eligibility Requirements

What is the Temporary Transit (TT) car rental program?

Temporary Transit (TT) is a French customs and tax program that allows anyone whose primary residence is outside the European Union or in a French overseas department or territory (DOM-TOM) to use a brand-new car with special red temporary plates during their stay in Europe.

In practice, it’s a brand-new car rental with an all-inclusive package (full insurance with zero deductible, no security deposit, unlimited mileage), available exclusively to non-EU residents. For full details, you can visit our page Temporary Transit: how it works.

What are the requirements to qualify for a TT car rental?

You must meet all four conditions below to qualify for the TT program:

  • Your primary residence must be located outside the European Union or in a French DOM-TOM.
  • You must stay in Europe for fewer than 185 consecutive days per year.
  • You must not engage in any professional activity during your stay.
  • You must be at least 18 years old on the delivery date and hold a valid driver’s license for more than one year.

What is the maximum duration of a Temporary Transit (TT) rental?

The maximum duration of a TT contract is limited both by French customs regulations and by each manufacturer’s internal rules.

Under the TT customs program, a vehicle can normally be used in Europe for up to 6 months. To account for administrative and logistics delays, manufacturers apply slightly shorter maximum durations.

As a reference:

  • TT-Eurodrive (Renault, Dacia): up to 170 days if the car is delivered in France, and up to 165 days if delivered outside France.
  • Car2Europe (Peugeot, Citroën, DS): up to 175 days if delivered in France, and up to 170 days if delivered outside France.

When requesting a quote or booking online, our system automatically applies these limits and will only propose rental durations compatible with your situation and the chosen program.

What documents do I need to provide for a TT rental?

If you are a citizen of the European Union

  • A copy of your driver’s license
  • A copy of your passport
  • Proof of residence abroad (one of the following):
    • A copy of your consular card
    • An official residency certificate issued by a government agency
    • Two utility bills (phone, electricity, etc.), one dated more than 6 months ago and one less than 6 months old

If you are a citizen of a non-EU country

  • A copy of your driver’s license
  • A copy of your passport

Booking

How do I book a TT rental?

  • Select your vehicle and book directly on our website.
  • You will receive the required documents by email.
  • Send the completed documents back to us by email.
  • Receive your booking confirmation along with all necessary information for your trip.

Can I book my TT rental if my travel dates aren’t confirmed yet?

Yes. Each year, starting in February, certain models become unavailable due to high demand.

To avoid disappointment, we strongly recommend that you book your vehicle as early as possible to guarantee availability.

Once your travel dates are confirmed, please notify us no later than 45 days before delivery. We will update your contract and adjust the price if needed based on the new rental duration.

For extra peace of mind, we offer a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option — ideal for planning ahead with no obligation.

Can I book my TT rental if I don’t have my flight tickets yet?

Yes, absolutely! You can provide your flight details after booking.

Your flight number is shared with the delivery center to ensure you are welcomed properly upon arrival.

Do I need to prepare any documents before booking my TT rental?

No, no documents are required at the time of booking.

You can book your vehicle now and send us the documents later.

How far in advance should I book a TT rental?

We recommend booking your Temporary Transit vehicle at least 4 to 6 weeks before delivery.

You can book later, depending on vehicle and delivery center availability. Last-minute bookings may have fewer models to choose from.

If your trip is coming up soon, feel free to contact us directly — we will check with the manufacturers to see what options are still possible.

Payment

Can I book without paying immediately, and what is the payment deadline?

Yes, you can secure your booking without paying right away by choosing the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option.

Payment can be made at any time you prefer, but must be completed no later than 35 days before the delivery date.

What payment methods are accepted, and can I pay in installments?

You can pay for your TT rental by credit card or bank transfer.

  • Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX)
  • Bank transfer

We also offer the option to pay for your TT rental in up to 3 interest-free installments.

  • 2 interest-free payments if delivery is scheduled at least 2 months in advance.
  • 3 interest-free payments if delivery is scheduled at least 3 months in advance.

If delivery is scheduled in less than 2 months at the time of booking, installment payment is not available.

What are the cancellation fees for a TT booking?

Cancellation fees depend on how close the cancellation is to the delivery date:

  • 35 days or more before delivery: no fees — full refund.
  • Less than 35 days before delivery: €1,000 if the vehicle has already been registered, or €500 if it has not yet been registered.

To avoid these fees in case of unexpected changes, you can add the “No-Fee Cancellation” option, which allows cancellation up to 48 hours before delivery without any penalty.

Can I add a cancellation insurance to avoid fees?

Yes, we offer an optional “No-Fee Cancellation” protection for €50, which allows you to cancel up to 48 hours before delivery without any cancellation fees.

Without this option, the standard cancellation fees apply, depending on the time remaining before the delivery date.

Modify My Booking

Can I change my travel dates after booking my TT rental?

Yes, up to 35 days before your delivery date, you can modify your travel dates. The rental price will then be recalculated accordingly.

Can I change the delivery or return location after booking my TT rental?

Yes, here are the conditions:

Delivery location: can be modified up to 35 days before delivery.

Return location: can be modified at any time, even after you have picked up the vehicle.

See the list of our TT delivery centers.

Can I change the car model after booking?

Yes, up to 35 days before delivery and subject to availability of the new model, we can change the vehicle and adjust the rental price.

Vehicle Delivery

How does the vehicle delivery process work?

Before your arrival, send us your flight number or, if you are not flying, a meeting time.

Upon arrival, depending on the delivery center:

  • You may go directly to the address indicated, always located near the airport.
  • Or, you may need to call the delivery center after collecting your luggage. A free shuttle will pick you up and take you to the delivery parking area, also located nearby.

No security deposit or credit card hold is required at delivery.

We will send you a guide for your delivery center with all the necessary details.

See the list of our TT delivery centers.

How long does it take to pick up my vehicle upon arrival?

Vehicle pickup is almost immediate! Unlike traditional rental car agencies where you wait in line, sign paperwork, and go through credit card verification, everything is handled in advance. Simply show your passport and you’ll receive your vehicle without delay.

Can my spouse pick up the vehicle on my behalf?

Yes, we will provide a simple authorization form that your spouse can present at the time of delivery.

Is the vehicle delivered with a full tank of gas?

No, the vehicle is delivered with a small amount of fuel. However, we offer an optional “Full Tank at Delivery” service at the time of booking, allowing you to pick up the car with a full tank.

What happens if my flight is delayed on the delivery day?

About two weeks before your arrival, we ask you to confirm your flight number.
This information is sent to the delivery center, which can then monitor your flight status in real time.

If there is a flight delay, the delivery center will adjust your appointment time and wait for you until closing time. If your flight arrives after the center is closed, your vehicle will remain reserved, and you can pick it up the next day — without being considered a “no-show,” unlike many traditional rental companies.

If your flight changes, we recommend letting us know as soon as possible so we can notify the center and update your appointment.

Manage My Current Contract

Can I extend the duration of my TT contract after I pick up the vehicle?

Yes, you can extend your contract (within the maximum TT rental duration). When you pick up your vehicle, you will receive a booklet with the phone number to call if you wish to extend your contract.

What should I do if I need to return my vehicle earlier than planned?

If you need to return your vehicle earlier than the original end date, you must contact the return center to schedule a new return date, at least 7 days in advance.

Can I get a refund if I return my vehicle earlier than planned?

You may be eligible for a partial refund of unused days, depending on the program. Just let us know and we will check whether a refund is possible in your situation.

For a TT-Eurodrive vehicle (Renault, Dacia)

  • A minimum of 15 days is always charged, even if you return the vehicle earlier.
  • A 10-day non-refundable period applies: in practice, only days beyond the 25th rental day can be refunded.
  • The refund is calculated as the difference between the original price and the recalculated price for the actual rental duration, based on the applicable daily extension rate.

For a Car2Europe vehicle (Peugeot, Citroën, DS)

  • The rental must have lasted at least 30 days to be eligible for a refund.
  • No refund is given for unused days if the vehicle is returned less than 7 days before the end of the contract.
  • Any promotional discounts applied to the original contract are removed if they no longer apply.
  • The refund corresponds to the difference between the original price and the adjusted price, with a 20% deduction for administrative fees.

Insurance / Roadside Assistance

What does the insurance on my Temporary Transit (TT) rental cover?

Both the TT-Eurodrive (Renault, Dacia) and Car2Europe (Peugeot, Citroën, DS) programs include comprehensive car insurance with zero deductible, valid in the authorized countries.

In summary, the insurance covers:

  • Liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage caused to third parties.
  • Damage to the vehicle in case of an accident, impact, or collision.
  • Theft, attempted theft, and vandalism.
  • Fire and certain natural events / natural disasters.
  • Glass damage (windshield, windows, glass roof, etc.), depending on the program.
  • Coverage for passengers (death, disability, medical expenses) as a supplement to your own health coverage.

In the event of a breakdown, accident, or theft, you also benefit from 24/7 roadside assistance: towing, recovery, and, if needed, a replacement vehicle or hotel accommodation, within the limits of each program.

Some situations are excluded (unauthorized countries, business use, lack of maintenance, driving under the influence, etc.). For more details, see What is not covered by TT insurance? as well as the official insurance terms provided with your contract.

What is not covered by TT insurance?

Your Temporary Transit (TT) rental includes very extensive comprehensive insurance with zero deductible. However, as with any insurance policy, certain situations are not covered. Here are the main exclusions.

The following are not covered, in particular:

  • Driving in a country that is not authorized under the TT contract, or after the contract or insurance end date.
  • Business or commercial use of the vehicle (Uber, deliveries, paid transportation, paid moves, etc.), as TT is strictly for private and tourist use.
  • Situations related to improper use or lack of maintenance: running out of fuel, no AdBlue, failure to follow the recommended maintenance schedule, getting stuck on unpaved roads, etc.
  • Accidents occurring while the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving without a valid license, or participation in races, rallies, or similar events.
  • Tickets and fines, tolls, emission stickers, parking or impound fees, as well as loss or theft of your baggage and personal belongings left in the vehicle.
  • Loss of the keys or the vehicle registration document, as well as any costs incurred without prior approval from TT-Eurodrive or Car2Europe assistance.

This summary is designed to give you a clear view of the main exclusions. Full details of coverage and exclusions are provided in your TT-Eurodrive or Car2Europe roadbook and in the general terms and conditions of your contract.

What happens if I have an accident or a breakdown with my TT vehicle?

If you experience an accident, breakdown, theft, or damage with your Temporary Transit (TT) vehicle, you benefit from dedicated 24/7 roadside assistance in the authorized countries. The assistance phone numbers and email contacts are listed in your roadbook provided after booking.

Key steps in case of a claim:

  • Move to a safe location and call emergency services if needed.
  • Call the assistance number shown in your TT documents (available 24/7).
  • In case of an accident, fill out the European accident report form and, if there is no identified third party, provide a written description of what happened.
  • In case of theft or vandalism, file a police report.
  • Send the documents (accident report, police report, etc.) to the email address shown in your roadbook within 24 hours, then mail the originals if requested.

Assistance will then arrange for towing or recovery to an authorized repair shop. If your vehicle is immobilized for more than a few hours, a mobility solution (replacement vehicle) or hotel accommodation may be offered, within the limits of your TT-Eurodrive or Car2Europe program.

It is very important not to incur significant expenses without prior approval from the assistance service: costs you incur on your own (towing, rental car, hotel, etc.) are generally not reimbursed.

Your comprehensive insurance with zero deductible will then take over for the claim settlement, within the coverage limits and exclusions of your policy.

Vehicle Return

How does the vehicle return process work?

  • 7 days before returning the vehicle, contact the return center to schedule an appointment.
  • On the day of return, arrive at the center at the scheduled time to drop off your vehicle.
  • After the return, a free shuttle will take you directly to your departure terminal.

See the list of our TT return centers.

Do I need to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas?

No, you don’t need to worry about the fuel level when returning the vehicle — no additional charges will apply.

Additional Information

Can I choose the color of the vehicle?

No, it is not possible to select the color of the vehicle. The available colors are mostly neutral and metallic shades, chosen to appeal to the widest range of drivers. Once your vehicle is returned, the manufacturer must be able to resell it quickly at a dealership.

Will my vehicle be equipped with snow tires if I book in winter?

No, vehicles are delivered with standard (all-season) tires by default.

Depending on the model and brand, you may select snow chains as an optional accessory. Some vehicles may also offer winter tires as an option.

You can also contact us to confirm the tire size of your reserved vehicle if you prefer to purchase snow chains on your own, which is often more economical than the manufacturer’s options.

Is the Crit’Air sticker required for a TT vehicle?

No, vehicles in the Temporary Transit (TT) program are exempt from the Crit’Air emissions sticker. You may drive freely in all French Low Emission Zones (ZFE), including Paris, without needing this sticker.

Despite this official exemption, administrative errors may occur during roadside checks. If you receive a fine related to the Crit’Air sticker, simply send it to us: we will handle the process to have it canceled with the proper authorities.

Do I have to leave a security deposit for a TT rental?

No—no deposit or credit card hold is required. When you pick up your vehicle, there is no contract to sign on-site, no extra fees, and no credit card imprint. You simply sign the handover document: everything else is prepared in advance.

What is the difference between TT-Eurodrive and Car2Europe?

Both TT-Eurodrive (Renault, Dacia) and Car2Europe (Peugeot, Citroën, DS) operate in essentially the same way: brand-new vehicles under the TT program, red temporary license plates, full insurance with zero deductible, no security deposit, and unlimited mileage.

The main differences involve:

  • The available vehicle brands (Renault/Dacia vs. Peugeot/Citroën/DS).
  • Certain delivery or return centers that are unique to each program (for example: Brussels is available only with Car2Europe, while Strasbourg and Brest are exclusive to TT-Eurodrive).
  • Small differences in the list of authorized countries and early-return refund policies.

For a detailed overview of each program, visit TT-Eurodrive and Car2Europe.

How is a Temporary Transit (TT) rental different from a traditional car rental?

A Temporary Transit (TT) rental works similarly to a standard car rental, but offers exclusive advantages for travelers who live outside the European Union or in French overseas territories.

The main differences include:

  • A 100% brand-new vehicle with special red temporary plates for the duration of your stay.
  • Full insurance with zero deductible, with no add-on options needed.
  • No security deposit and no credit card hold at pickup.
  • Unlimited mileage in the authorized countries, with no extra fees.
  • Eligibility limited to non-EU residents and residents of French overseas territories, as part of the TT customs program.

Traffic Rules and Driving Under the TT Program

Who is allowed to drive a TT vehicle?

The following people are authorized to drive a TT vehicle:

  • The contract holder
  • The contract holder’s spouse
  • The contract holder’s parents
  • The contract holder’s children

Important requirement: All authorized drivers must reside outside the European Union or in a French overseas department/territory (DOM-TOM).

No additional paperwork is required, and there is no extra cost for adding these drivers.

Important: No other drivers may be added or authorized.

In which countries can I drive with my TT vehicle?

Your TT insurance and roadside assistance are valid in the following countries:

For a TT-Eurodrive vehicle (Renault, Dacia)

Germany, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus (Greek part only), Croatia, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Finland, mainland France, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, North Macedonia, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City.

For a Car2Europe vehicle (Peugeot, Citroën, DS)

Germany, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus (Greek part only), Croatia, Denmark, Spain (including the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands), Estonia, Finland, mainland France, continental Greece (including Crete), Hungary, Ireland, Italy (including Sardinia and Sicily), Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal (including Madeira and the Azores), Czech Republic, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican City.

Important note
Since the United Kingdom left the European Union, it is now prohibited to drive a TT vehicle in the UK.

Can I use a TT vehicle for work (deliveries, Uber, etc.)?

No, a Temporary Transit (TT) vehicle cannot be used for any professional or commercial activity.

Use is strictly limited to personal and tourist purposes: personal travel, vacations, family visits, and everyday trips during your stay.

The following are not permitted:

  • Rideshare or transport services (Uber, taxi, Lyft, delivery, courier, etc.).
  • Transporting goods or passengers for payment.

Using the vehicle for business invalidates the TT customs status and voids the insurance coverage in the event of a claim. If you are unsure about your intended use, please contact us before booking.

What are the specific customs restrictions for Portugal under the TT program?

A Temporary Transit (TT) vehicle may circulate in Portugal for a maximum of 90 days.

A customs document called the "Guia de Circulação" is required. If your vehicle is delivered directly in Portugal, the delivery center will handle the process. Otherwise, contact us and we will assist you with the procedure.