Taichung is a captivating city that combines urban convenience with natural beauty. Whether you want to stroll around Audit Village, enjoy the night markets, or drive to Gaomei Wetlands or the mountains of Guguan, having your own vehicle makes traveling much smoother. Car and scooter rental in Taichung is increasingly popular among travelers and international students thanks to its flexibility, reasonable prices, and convenient pickup locations.
Why Rent a Vehicle in Taichung?
Compared to other cities in Taiwan, Taichung has a less developed public transportation system. Renting a car or scooter gives you greater mobility and freedom. For tourists, it eliminates the stress of transfers and navigation—rental vehicles can take you straight to your destination.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or traveling with family or friends, Taichung offers a wide variety of vehicle options, including scooters, sedans, and 7-seaters.
Rental Options in Taichung｜Which One Suits You?
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Sedan / 7-Seater Rentals
Perfect for families or groups. 7-seaters offer spacious interiors and luggage space, ideal for road trips or family vacations. Additional options like GPS or child safety seats are available.
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Scooter Rentals
Great for backpackers or budget-conscious travelers. Taichung’s wide roads and light traffic make scooter riding pleasant and efficient—especially for sightseeing around Calligraphy Greenway, Miyahara Ice Cream, or Tunghai University.
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One-Way Rental (Pickup A, Return B)
Planning to visit Nantou, Chiayi, or Kaohsiung from Taichung? Choose a one-way rental to return your car at a different location. This saves time and effort for long-distance travelers.
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Taichung Train Station Rental
Many travelers pick up vehicles directly at Taichung Station. The area offers multiple rental shops within walking distance, including around the Taichung HSR station.
What Foreigners Should Know Before Renting in Taiwan
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Driver’s License Requirements
You’ll need:
- Passport
- Valid Driver’s License + International Driving Permit (IDP), OR
- License with a certified Chinese/English translation (recognized by Taiwanese authorities)
✔ Tip: Check with Taiwan’s motor vehicle office in advance.
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Insurance Coverage
Rental cars usually include basic third-party liability insurance. We recommend adding:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
- Full Coverage / Theft Insurance
- Personal Accident Insurance
✔ Some international credit cards offer rental insurance—check in advance.
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Traffic Rules
Taiwan drives on the right. Taichung has a high density of scooters—be extra cautious and always observe speed limits and signals.
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Parking & Fees
Most urban areas in Taichung have paid street parking (8 a.m. to 10 p.m.). Payment methods include EasyCard, cash, or parking apps like “Taichung Traffic Network.”
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Choose Legal Rental Companies
Always rent from licensed companies with complete insurance and clear rental agreements. This ensures safety and avoids future disputes.
How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Taichung
- Book Early for Discounts
- Rent on Weekdays (cheaper than weekends)
- Rent Longer (3+ days often get discounts)
- Use Comparison Platforms: KLOOK, RentalCars, etc.
- Avoid Tourist Hotspot Stores—nearby alleys often offer better deals
Want to Learn Chinese in Taichung? Renting a Car Helps You Explore More!
If you’re planning a long stay in Taichung, consider studying Chinese at Oh Young Language Center. They offer one-on-one or small group classes combined with local cultural activities like night market tours, temple visits, and DIY sun cakes.
After class, rent a vehicle and explore the city at your own pace. It’s the perfect blend of language learning and cultural immersion!
FAQ｜Car & Scooter Rental for Foreigners in Taichung
Q1: Can foreigners rent scooters in Taichung? What do I need?
A: Yes. You’ll need a passport and an international license (with scooter category) or a certified translation. Some shops may require a deposit or take photos at pickup.
Q2: How can I find the cheapest rentals in Taichung?
A: Book in advance, rent on weekdays, use comparison sites, and avoid stores at tourist hotspots.
Q3: Can I rent in Taichung and return in Taipei?
A: Yes, this is called “one-way rental.” Some companies may charge extra—reserve in advance.
Q4: Is it convenient to rent near Taichung Train Station?
A: Very. Multiple rental shops are located within 5 minutes’ walk of both the train and HSR stations.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a short-term traveler or long-term language learner, renting a vehicle in Taichung gives you flexibility, convenience, and the freedom to explore. From scooters to 7-seaters, from in-town pickups to one-way rentals, having the right ride is your first step to discovering Taichung and learning Chinese in a whole new way!
