CarClub

Who benefits from joining a car club?

People who just need a car occasionally and don’t want the expense and hassle of owning and running one.

People who currently run a car and are doing a medium to low mileage - e.g. less than 8,000 miles per year

People who don’t own a car, but would like to have access to one for occasional use.

Two-car families, who wouldn’t need their second car if they could sometimes hire one for an hour or two

Businesses which use pool cars or staff's own vehicles for business trips could use car club vehicles instead.

How do I join?

Apply online, or by phone. The car club will run a credit check, and confirm your details with the DVLA. They will discuss insurance, and membership options with you. Your membership will usually be confirmed within a few minutes.  

To join, search for your nearest car club using the Find a Car box on the left, or go to the Links page .

Who can join?

Broadly speaking, anybody with a full valid licence held for at least 12 months, and aged between 18 and 75. Eligibility varies according to restrictions imposed by car club insurers, and you will be asked about any endorsements, convictions or insurance claims when you apply.

How do I make a booking?

In most car clubs, members have the choice to book online, by text, or by telephone. You can often book just a few minutes in advance and cars can also be booked up to 12 months in advance to ensure peace of mind for important engagements or regular trips. Some car clubs have on-board computers in the vehicles so you can extend, or make new bookings, during use.

Will a car be there when I need it?

Operators are keen to ensure there is always a vehicle available when needed by ensuring the right number of cars in each area. Experience shows it is rare to have a failed booking. If a car is not returned on time, the operator will try to provide a replacement car and the late driver will pay a fine. 

Where are the vehicles based?

There should be a car within a five to ten minute walk of your home or work, in a marked parking bay specially designated for car club cars. Operators are expanding all the time so if there isn’t one close to you and you'd like to join, let us know and we'll pass on the request. 

Will I be able to book a car for longer periods, e.g. to use on holiday?

Most car clubs will have special rates for members who want to book cars for a longer hire period; check their websites. All operators allow members to book cars at any of their locations, so you can travel by public transport to your UK, or in some cases overseas, holiday location and make use of car club vehicles when you arrive.

Can a car club provide a range of cars to choose from?

Most offer a choice of new vehicles suitable for all requirements.  Car clubs are increasingly offering low emission cars, such as hybrid vehicles as well as ‘traditional’ petrol cars.

Who cleans and maintains the cars?

The operator does all that, but it helps if members leave vehicles as they would wish to find them. You may be charged for extra cleaning if you leave the car unacceptably dirty.

Who fills it with fuel?

If the tank’s running low, simply refill using the car’s fuel card accepted in most petrol stations. You should return the car with a quarter tank of fuel. 

What about the Congestion Charge?

Car club cars are not exempt but some car clubs use vehicles which are exempt and some pay the charge for you; check operator's websites for details. Also if you live within the zone you can apply for the rebate through the car club.  

What happens if I have an accident in the car?

Your car club will tell you how to report any accidental damage. The police must be informed if you are involved in anything other than a minor accident, or if anyone is injured.

What happens if the car breaks down?

Car club vehicles have breakdown cover (e.g. with the Environmental Transport Association, AA or RAC).

What happens if I need the car for longer than I booked?

You can usually extend your booking by calling the club, or using the on-board computer, unless another member is already waiting for the car. If you keep the car longer than your booking without contacting the car club, you will have to pay a penalty charge.

How will I be charged?

Generally, you pay an all inclusive hourly rate, which includes mileage up to a pre-agreed daily distance. Most car clubs issue a monthly statement detailing the time and mileage you have driven, and payment is made by Direct Debit – or you can literally pay-as-you-go, by the hour with a credit or debit card. Costs vary according to the club and the tariff you have chosen, in a similar way to mobile phone contracts. 

To join, search for your nearest car club using the Find a Car box on the left, or go to the Links page .