The easiest car rental we've done in any country — but there's one document most travellers forget, and it'll stop you at the counter without it.
Quick Facts
| Pickup | Jeju International Airport (CJU), on arrival |
|---|---|
| Return | Same airport, before your departure |
| Essential document | International Driving Permit (IDP) |
| Navigation | Kakao Maps (works far better than Google Maps in Korea) |
How Easy the Actual Rental Was
We picked up our rental car directly at Jeju Airport, and the whole process took about five minutes — genuinely the smoothest car rental we've done compared to any other country we've rented in. Counter staff were efficient, the car was ready, and we were on the road almost immediately.
The One Thing You Need to Sort Before You Arrive
Here's the part most travellers get wrong: you need an International Driving Permit (IDP), and most people simply don't have one when they land. Unlike some countries where a regular driver's licence is enough, Jeju (and South Korea generally) requires the IDP alongside your home licence. Apply for one before you leave your home country — it's usually quick and inexpensive through your local motoring authority, but it can't be arranged once you've already landed.
Getting Around Once You Have the Car
Download Kakao Maps before you go — it's far more reliable for navigation in Korea than Google Maps, which has limited functionality in the country. Have it downloaded and set up before you land so you're not fumbling with it at the rental counter.
Planning your Jeju road trip
The Honest Caveat
Even with the easiest rental process imaginable, our Jeju trip was badly affected by rain, and we ended up not exploring nearly as much of the island as planned. The car itself was never the problem — the weather was. If you're driving Jeju's loop roads, check the forecast closely, because the island's best sights (waterfalls, cliffs, beaches, the volcanic peak at Seongsan) are all outdoor and weather-dependent.
FAQ
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Jeju?
Yes — this is essential, and it's the one thing that catches travellers out. Arrange it before you leave home; it can't be done on arrival.
Is renting a car in Jeju difficult?
No — it was the easiest rental process we've experienced in any country, assuming you have the right documents.
What's the best navigation app for driving in Jeju?
Kakao Maps — Google Maps has limited functionality in South Korea, so download and set up Kakao Maps before you land.
More Jeju Guides
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