Getting Started
Car RentalGetting Started with Car Rental as a Sidegig
Turn your vehicle into a passive income stream by listing it on peer-to-peer car rental platforms. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process from signup to your first booking.
Step-by-Step Process
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Vehicle Qualification Check
Ensure your vehicle meets platform requirements:
- Turo: Typically 12 years old or newer with under 130,000 miles
- Getaround: 2010 or newer with under 125,000 miles
- HyreCar: Up to 15 years old with under 150,000 miles
Your vehicle must have a clean title, valid registration, and be in good mechanical condition.
Timeframe: 1 day
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Market Research
Before signing up, research your local market:
- Browse listings in your area to assess demand and pricing
- Check how many similar vehicles are listed
- Note peak rental periods (weekends, tourist seasons)
- Identify pricing for vehicles similar to yours
Use the platform's search features as a guest to see competitors' pricing and availability.
Timeframe: 2-3 days
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Platform Selection & Account Creation
Choose the platform that best fits your goals and create your host account:
- Turo Host Signup: Largest marketplace with flexible insurance options
- Getaround Host Signup: Keyless technology for passive hosting
- HyreCar Owner Signup: Focused on rideshare driver rentals
You'll need to provide:
- Valid driver's license
- Banking information for direct deposits
- Contact information
Timeframe: 1 day
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Vehicle Listing Creation
Create a detailed, attractive listing:
- Take 25+ high-quality photos (exterior, interior, features, trunk space)
- Write a detailed description highlighting key features and benefits
- Set competitive pricing based on your market research
- Configure availability calendar
- Set pickup/dropoff locations
- Establish rental policies (mileage limits, fuel policy, etc.)
For Turo, select your protection plan (60%, 75%, 85%, or 90% plans available).
Timeframe: 2-3 days
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Vehicle Preparation
Prepare your vehicle for rentals:
- Complete thorough cleaning (interior and exterior)
- Perform maintenance check (oil, tires, brakes, fluids)
- Address any mechanical or cosmetic issues
- Consider installing a GPS tracker (with disclosure to renters)
- For Getaround: Schedule Connectâ„¢ device installation ($99-$150)
Timeframe: 2-7 days
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Verification & Approval
Complete the platform verification process:
- Submit vehicle registration documents
- Complete vehicle inspection (requirements vary by platform)
- Wait for background check completion
- Address any platform-specific requirements
Timeframe: 3-10 days
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Operational Preparation
Develop your operational systems:
- Create check-in/check-out procedures
- Prepare welcome instructions for guests
- Set up a cleaning protocol between rentals
- Establish a maintenance schedule
- Prepare a folder with registration, insurance, and platform documentation
Timeframe: 1-2 days
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Go Live & First Booking
Activate your listing and manage your first booking:
- Set calendar to "Available"
- Respond quickly to inquiries (aim for under 15 minutes)
- Consider offering an introductory discount (10-15%) to attract first renters
- Provide excellent service to earn 5-star reviews
Timeframe: 1-14 days for first booking
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First Payment
Receive your first earnings:
- Turo: Payments processed 24 hours after trip completion
- Getaround: Payments processed on the 15th and last day of each month
- HyreCar: Payments processed weekly
Timeframe: 1-30 days after first rental completion
First Week Action Plan
Day 1-2:
- Research platforms and local market
- Choose platform and create account
- Schedule vehicle maintenance check
Day 3-4:
- Clean and photograph vehicle
- Create detailed listing
- Submit verification documents
Day 5-7:
- Develop check-in/check-out process
- Create guest instructions document
- Activate listing with introductory pricing
- Share listing on social media (optional)
Official Resources
Important Note
Always check with your auto insurance provider before listing your vehicle. Most personal policies exclude commercial rental activity, making platform insurance essential.
Total Startup Timeline
From initial research to first payment, expect the complete process to take approximately 3-6 weeks. The verification process and attracting your first booking are typically the most variable timeframes.
Most hosts see consistent bookings after accumulating 3-5 positive reviews, which typically takes 1-2 months depending on your market and vehicle type.
Platform Comparison
Platform | Commission | Best For |
---|---|---|
Turo | 15-40% | Maximum flexibility, largest customer base |
Getaround | 40% | Passive income, hourly rentals |
HyreCar | 15-25% | Longer rentals, steady utilization |
Startup Costs
- Vehicle Maintenance & Detailing $50-200
- Professional Photos (optional) $100-200
- GPS Tracker (optional) $25-100
- Getaround Connectâ„¢ Device (if applicable) $99-150
- Total Typical Startup $75-500