Korean Job Discussion Forums

Scaggs · Joined: 19 Sep 2006

I am planning a trip to Jeju and am planning to rent a scooter or car while there. My girlfriend is convinced that I won't be able to do this with my American license but that seems strange to me. Don't most rental agencies expect foreign tourists without a domestic license.

Any knowledge out there?

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

definitely maybe · Joined: 16 Feb 2008

international driver's license, or no go.

VanIslander · Posted: Mon Oct 06, 2008 7:55 pm Post subject: Re: Driver's License and Renting

nuorange · Joined: 20 Jul 2007

It depends on where you rent from, who is there when you rent and who you are. The closer to a major hub you are (airport, ferry, etc.) the more used to foreigners the rental place will be and the less likely you'll get away without an international license or a Korean license.

That being said, it's not impossible. I had one set of friends (American) who went down there and did the "Oh, really? I had no idea!" *bat eyelashes, act flustered* when it came time to show the license and they had no problem.

However, you do save a bunch of money by booking over the internet before you go (probably up to 80%) and you can shop around a little more to find the car you want. Booking a convertible ahead of time may be cheaper than booking something small when you get there. Again, depending on where you book, you may have trouble getting it without the license.

wormholes101 · Joined: 11 Mar 2003

In my experience, the two main scooter hire centers in Jeju City won't hire out unless you have a KOREAN licence. International is not accepted. Don't ask me why....

In Seogwipo, they will hire out without asking for anything.

BTW: Check the Travel Forum, there was a post there recently about a guy in Jeju City called Mr Lee who rents from his bike shop. His number is 011 699-8562.