Leasing a car in Germany can be a good alternative to renting or buying one -- and it can save you money. You will get full, comprehensive insurance coverage with the lease at no additional charge. And, you will not have to pay value added tax. When you lease a car in Germany, you also get unlimited mileage and assistance.
Find the car you want.
There are various car-leasing companies in Germany such as sixt-leasing and Athlon car lease. Visit these companies or call them to inquire about the models they offer and the prices they charge. Note that while most leased cars in the U.S. have automatic transmission, in Germany they are usually stick shift.
Fulfill the requirements.
To lease a car in Germany, you must present a passport and a driver's license. You also need a bank statement or pay stub showing proof of employment or stable income and physical address as well as a deposit that is refundable if you decline the offer. You are also required to be of legal age when applying for a car lease. In Germany, you must be at least 18 years old to drive, and some companies require you to be at least 21 years old or older to lease or rent a car. You do not need an International Driving Permit to drive in Germany -- just your Canadian or U.S. driver's license.
Examine your credit.
Visit Experian to get a free credit report. This will protect you and the company financing you. Also, take a look at your last 12 months of bank statements before leasing a car.
Pay the fees.
Fees vary from one lease company to another. For example, the Auto Europe lease company leases a no-frills Peugeot 208 for about $860 for 21 days at the time of publication.
Gather the paperwork.
Your Social Security card or birth certificate may be required in case of an error in the credit report. After you complete the application forms, sign them. Present your forms with your documentation to the person in charge of the car lease. Your application will take a few days to be finalized.
Lease the car.
Pick the car you need and read the terms and conditions before signing the contract. You will later be given the chance to buy the car or return it at the end of your lease.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Amsterdam, Brooke Pierce has been writing automotive-related articles since 2012. She holds a Bachelor of Science in automotive engineering technology from Ferris State University, Big Rapids, MI.