Exotic Car Rental Rules Explained: Fuel, Cleaning, Smoking, Late Returns and Cancellations

Renting an exotic car is supposed to be the fun part of a trip, and it usually is. Most of the surprises renters run into come from rules they did not read: a fuel level, a cleaning fee, a late return, a toll. None of these are complicated, but they all affect your security deposit. This guide explains the day-to-day rules that apply to every Royal Rentals vehicle in Scottsdale, Phoenix and Charlotte, so you can enjoy the car and get your deposit back without any back-and-forth.

We have separate guides on the security deposit and requirements, insurance and mileage limits. This post covers everything else in the contract that matters during the rental itself.

Fuel Rules

Use 91 Octane or Higher

Every vehicle must be filled with gasoline of 91 octane or higher. Lower-octane fuel can cause damage, and the renter is responsible for any damage that results. In practice, choose the premium pump every time.

Return It With the Same Fuel Level or More

Note the fuel level at pickup and bring the car back at that level or higher. If it comes back with less, the charge is $20 plus the cost of the difference in 91 octane fuel. A quick stop at a gas station before your return is the easiest way to avoid it.

Cleaning and Smoking

Return the Car Clean Inside and Out

The car should look the way it did when you received it. If it needs cleaning, the fee is at least $60, up to a maximum of $350. Sand from a pool day, food in the cabin and a dusty exterior are the most common causes. If you clean the car yourself, avoid harsh products on leather and screens, because damage from cleaning can be charged beyond the deposit.

No Smoking of Any Kind

This is the rule with the biggest consequence. If there is smoking of any sort in the vehicle, the entire deposit is forfeited. That includes passengers, so make sure everyone riding with you knows it before the trip starts.

Driving Rules

Where You Can Drive

The vehicle must stay within a 200-mile radius of the pickup location's zip code. Daily mileage allowances run 75 to 120 miles depending on the vehicle, and each extra mile costs $0.50 or $1, also depending on the vehicle.

What Is Not Allowed

Track use, racing, speed tests and demonstrations are prohibited, as is driving over 100 mph or on unpaved surfaces. Breaking these rules allows us to end the rental and recover the vehicle, and the renter risks losing the entire deposit and may owe additional charges.

Who Can Drive

Drivers must be at least 21, or 25 for certain vehicles. Only one additional driver is allowed, and that person must be named on the contract and sign it. Nobody else may drive the car.

Tolls, Tickets and Parking

The renter is responsible for all tolls, parking charges, moving violations and tickets during the rental, including any towing or related fees. Pay for parking where required and keep an eye on toll roads on longer drives.

Returning the Car

Return on Time

If the vehicle is not returned by the agreed time, the charge is $50 for every 30 minutes. If your plans run long, contact us before the return time instead of after.

Return It to the Agreed Location

If the car is left somewhere other than the agreed return location, there is a retrieval fee of $50 plus $5 per mile between the return location and where the car was left. If you need a different drop-off, arrange it when you book. Delivery and return within 15 miles of our office cost $60 each.

Cancellations and Weather

Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled pickup to receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before pickup are not refunded. We cannot offer refunds or date changes because of unexpected weather, so plan with the forecast in mind. Full details are on our cancellation policy page.

A Simple Checklist for Getting Your Deposit Back

Take photos of the fuel gauge and the car's condition at pickup.

Use 91 octane or higher fuel and refill to the starting level before return.

Keep the cabin clean and smoke-free, and remind passengers.

Stay within the 200-mile radius and your daily mileage allowance.

Return on time and at the agreed location.

The deposit is held from 1 day before until 7 days after the rental, and any charges are deducted from it. Following the checklist is the best way to avoid deductions. The complete contract terms are on our terms and conditions page, and common questions are answered on our FAQ page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fuel does an exotic rental need?

Gasoline of 91 octane or higher, and the car should come back with the same fuel level or more.

How much is the cleaning fee?

At least $60, up to a maximum of $350, if the car is not returned clean inside and out.

What happens if someone smokes in the car?

Smoking of any sort forfeits the entire security deposit.

What does a late return cost?

$50 for every 30 minutes past the agreed return time.

Who pays for tolls and tickets?

The renter is responsible for all tolls, parking, violations and tickets during the rental.

Can I get a refund if it rains?

No. There are no refunds or date changes for unexpected weather. Cancellations at least 24 hours before pickup receive a full refund.

Ready to Book?

The entire rental process is online. Complete the Book Now form at royalrentals.io/rentals and pick your car and dates. Questions about any rule? Call Scottsdale at (480) 702-2885, Charlotte at (704) 883-5755 or our main line at (800) 997-4816, 8 AM to 9 PM daily.