Renting Cars In Brunei: What You Need To Know

Renting a car in Brunei Darussalam is a great way to explore the country and its neighbouring country, Malaysia. With well-maintained roads and natural attractions, Brunei is a great place to rent a car. However, it's important to note that public transportation in the country can be confusing, with many bus schedules not readily available. When renting a car in Brunei, it is essential to have a valid driver's license, be aware of the speed limits, and the requirement to have a car seat for children under the age of three.

Car rental companies in Brunei

Yes, it is possible to rent a car in Brunei. There are several car rental companies operating in the country, including:

Avis

Avis is an international car rental company with a presence in Brunei. They offer a range of benefits such as free upgrades, member benefits, and competitive rates. Avis has four locations in Brunei Darussalam.

Kayak

Kayak is a travel search engine that allows users to compare rental car prices from multiple companies. They offer a free cancellation filter and instant customization options. According to Kayak, the cheapest rental cars in Brunei Darussalam were found at Avis ($45/day) and Hertz ($107/day).

Dollar

Dollar Rent a Car has three locations in Brunei Darussalam.

Hertz

Hertz is another international car rental company with a presence in Brunei. They have three locations in the country.

Thrifty

Thrifty Car Rental also has three locations in Brunei Darussalam.

When renting a car in Brunei, it is important to keep in mind the driving requirements and regulations. Foreign drivers must have a valid driver's license and an international driving permit. The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, and most companies require at least one year of valid driving experience. Additionally, routine stops are common at night, so it is important to always carry the necessary documentation.

Driving requirements in Brunei

International Driving Permit

To drive in Brunei, you must have a valid local driver's licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Your IDP allows you to drive in Brunei for up to three months. If you're a foreign driver, you must carry your IDP and your licence at all times.

Age Requirements

The minimum driving age in Brunei is 18, and there is no maximum age. To rent a car, you must be over 21 and under 65. Drivers aged 21 to 24 may have to pay additional fees.

Insurance

Different types of insurance are included in the car rental fee. In addition to the mandatory insurance that the car you rented must have, you can also avail of other car insurances such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Insurance.

Documents

As road checkpoints can happen at any time, it is important to always carry your local driver's licence, IDP, and passport when driving in Brunei. Road authorities may also ask to see the car registration and proof of rental.

Driving Rules

Driving in Brunei is on the left side of the road. You can only park on the side of the road in the direction of the traffic flow. It is illegal to use your mobile phone while driving, and you must always wear your seatbelt. Children under three must be secured in a government-approved car seat.

Road Conditions

Brunei has a limited but efficient road system. Roads are generally in good condition, even in rural areas. There are some toll roads.

Child car seat laws in Brunei

In Brunei, all children under the age of three are required by law to be secured in a government-approved car seat. This law was introduced in 2019 by the Road Safety Department director general, Mohd Nazri Ishak, who emphasised the importance of using child car seats for safety. He stated that "they [children] are the future assets of the country".

If you are renting a car in Brunei and have a child under three years of age, you must ensure that you have an approved car seat for them. You can check with your rental car provider that the car seat you have is approved, or you can add on an approved seat when you reserve your car.

It is also compulsory for back passengers and bus passengers to wear seatbelts while travelling in a vehicle in Brunei. The penalty for not using a child car seat is not yet known and is still under discussion.

Border crossing from Brunei to Malaysia

Yes, it is possible to rent a car in Brunei. The country's roads are in good condition, and renting a car can offer more freedom to explore neighbouring Malaysia.

When crossing the border from Brunei to Malaysia by car, there are several steps to follow. Firstly, register your vehicle on the official website and obtain the necessary documents, including your passport, driving licence, vehicle registration, visa (if required), and travel insurance. Keep these documents easily accessible throughout your journey.

The process at the border involves the following steps:

• Stamp your passport at the Malaysian immigration counter.
• Stamp your passport at the Brunei immigration counter.
• Go through the Brunei security and customs check.
• Scan your QR code at the Brunei customs counter to register your vehicle's entry/exit details.
• Pay the toll fee of B$3 per car.
• Present your passport, visa, and vehicle registration at the Malaysian customs counter.

It is important to note that there are a total of nine checkpoints when travelling between Sarawak and Sabah via Brunei. Each checkpoint will require you to stamp your passport and scan the QR code on the Brunei side. The Temburong Bridge now provides a quicker route between the two countries.

When planning your trip, consider the day and time of your border crossing to avoid peak hours. Friday and Sunday evenings tend to be busy, while early Saturday mornings may offer a smoother experience. The border is open from 6 am to 12 am.

Additionally, ensure you are familiar with the visa requirements for your specific nationality when entering Malaysia. Some countries may require a visa in advance, while others may be eligible for a visa on arrival.

By following these steps and preparing the necessary documentation, crossing the border from Brunei to Malaysia by car can be a straightforward process.

Cheapest car rental companies in Brunei

While there are many car rental companies in Brunei, the cheapest in the past 72 hours have been found to be Avis ($45/day) and Hertz ($107/day).

Avis

Avis is a well-known car rental company with a presence in Brunei. With four locations in the country, Avis offers a range of vehicles at competitive prices, starting from $45 per day.

Hertz

Hertz is another popular option for car rentals in Brunei, with three locations across the country. While their rates are higher than Avis, at $107 per day, they still offer a cost-effective solution for those looking to rent a car.

Other Options

Other car rental companies operating in Brunei include Dollar, Thrifty, and Sixt. While their prices may vary, it is worth comparing rates and checking for promotions or deals to find the best value for your needs.

Booking Tips

To get the best rates, it is recommended to book your rental car in Brunei at least three days before your trip. Additionally, off-airport rental locations are typically 32% cheaper than airport locations, so consider renting from downtown branches. Mini rental cars are also worth considering, as they can be up to 39% cheaper than other car types.

Driving in Brunei

When driving in Brunei, it is important to note that foreign drivers must have a valid driver's license and an international driving permit. The country follows left-hand traffic, and road signs are in Malay script, so some familiarity with the language can be helpful. Routine stops by the police are common at night, so ensure you carry all necessary documentation with you at all times.

Frequently asked questions