Self-Drive Car Rental in Paphos
Self-drive means you rent the car and you drive it. The renter named on the contract is the driver, and the car is yours for the length of the rental. It is the most flexible way to see Paphos, because you go where you like, when you like. This guide explains how self-drive works with CHMI Rentals, who may drive, what the rules are and what the handover looks like. CHMI Rentals has served Paphos for over 23 years from Tombs of the Kings Avenue.
Who May Drive
- Only the renter who signed the contract. Under our terms, the car must not be driven by any other person. If two people plan to share the driving, discuss it with us at booking.
- Over 21, or 3 or more years of driving experience. Drivers must be over 21, or have at least 3 years of driving experience.
- Holders of a provisional licence may not carry any passengers.
- Never under the influence of alcohol, drugs, narcotics or barbiturates.
What You Need
- A valid driving licence.
- Your passport or ID. The passport is left as security under our terms.
- Cash or a credit card in the renter's name. A credit card is not required. See renting without a credit card.
If you are visiting from abroad, EU and UK licences are generally accepted as they are. Licences from other countries may need an International Driving Permit alongside the national licence. See our international travellers guide.
How Delivery and Handover Work
Self-drive does not mean you have to come to us. When you rent with us, we deliver the car to your hotel, villa or home in Paphos town, at Paphos Airport and in Chloraka, Kissonerga, Peyia, Coral Bay, Tala, Empa and Mesa Chorio, free of charge. It is not only the shop. Book 24 hours before.
- At Paphos Airport, your agent meets you outside the arrivals terminal with the paperwork ready. We track your flight, and airport delivery runs 24 hours. Returns are during shop hours, Monday to Saturday, 8am to 7pm.
- At your accommodation, the agent meets you at reception or outside the entrance.
- At our shop, on Tombs of the Kings Avenue, open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 7pm.
You sign, pay and leave your passport as security. Then you check the car and drive away. See Paphos airport car hire.
What Self-Drive Means for Responsibility
Because you are the driver, some responsibilities are yours. Our terms are clear about them.
- Insurance. The vehicle has third-party insurance. In an accident, the owner is not responsible for the driver or passengers.
- Damage and theft. The renter pays for damage and theft, subject to the insurance excess limits in the agreement. Ask what your excess is.
- Fines. The renter pays all traffic fines.
- Where you may drive. Not in Northern Cyprus, the Akamas region or off-road. Damage there voids cover.
- Fuel. Return the car with the same level you received. Petrol is non-refundable.
- Returning on time. A return after the agreed date and time carries an hourly delay fee.
Every charge and obligation is listed on our no hidden fees page.
Driving on the Left
- Cyprus drives on the left, and your rental car has the steering wheel on the right.
- Roundabouts run clockwise, and traffic already on the roundabout has priority over cars entering it.
- Speed limits are 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on rural roads and 100 km/h on motorways, with a minimum of 65 km/h.
- Speed cameras are common, and fines are issued automatically. The renter pays all traffic fines.
- Wearing a seat belt is the law, and that includes rear passengers.
An automatic makes a self-drive first day easier. All our compact cars and both X-Trails are automatics. See automatic car rental.
If You Would Rather Not Drive
Self-drive is not for everyone. CHMI is a car rental company, not a taxi firm. If you do not want to drive, a taxi or the airport bus may suit you better. When you rent with us, we can take you from Larnaca Airport to your accommodation in Paphos, at a price agreed with the shop, and a minibus is available for groups on request. See our airport transfer service page.
Choosing a Self-Drive Car
- A couple or small family: a compact automatic. See compact car rental.
- More space and comfort: a Nissan X-Trail. See SUV rental.
- A family: see family car hire.
Mileage is unlimited on our rentals, so you can drive as far as you like. See our unlimited mileage guide. Our minimum rental is 72 hours (3 days).
What to Check at Handover
- Confirm the fuel level matches your rental agreement.
- Photograph any existing scratches or dents before you leave the pickup area.
- Check that the insurance excess and your documents are as agreed.
- Adjust the seat, mirrors and steering position, and find the indicators and wipers.
- Set your satnav before you move off, not while driving.
Book Your Self-Drive Car
Choose your dates on the fleet page. Call or WhatsApp +357 99 655104 (office +357 26 819880), or visit us at Shop 3, Royal Complex, Tombs of the Kings Avenue, Paphos. The shop is open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 7pm.