Car sharing, car subscriptions and short-term rentals offer flexible access to a vehicle, yet you remain fully responsible as the driver. This guide explains what to check before driving, how insurance works and which routines prevent unexpected costs.
Overview of the schemes
| Scheme | Cost model | Insurance | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car sharing (minute/hour) | Pay per minute or hour, often with a start fee | Third-party and comprehensive cover included, high deductible | City trips, one-way rentals, flexible parking |
| Car subscription | Fixed monthly fee with included kilometres | Full cover included, adjustable deductible | Everyday car without ownership, option to switch cars |
| Rental car (day/week) | Daily or weekly rate with add-ons for extra drivers | Basic cover included, optional deductible reduction | Holidays, special vehicles or workshop replacement |
| Read more about total running costs in Economy and car ownership. |
Legal requirements before you drive
- Valid licence in the correct category, see Driving licence, registration and insurance
- Signed user agreement or rental contract with the provider
- Confirm the vehicle has a valid registration certificate and roadworthiness inspection
- Complete any mandatory training for special vehicles (electric vans, automatic only) stated in the contract
- Register additional drivers when required – unregistered drivers can trigger recourse claims
Insurance, deductibles and recourse
| Topic | What to verify | Consequence if ignored |
|---|---|---|
| Collision deductible | Typically NOK 8,000–20,000 for sharing, adjustable on subscriptions | High out-of-pocket cost if you skip extra cover |
| Theft and keys | Keep keys secured, never make copies | Provider may charge the full loss for negligence |
| Alcohol and negligence | Blood alcohol limit 0.2 and duty of care | Insurance can be void and recourse claimed |
| For details about cover types, see Insurance: third-party, comprehensive and recourse. Breaching the terms allows the provider to demand full repair costs. |
Tolls, parking and fees
- Add a payment method in the app before the trip – tolls are usually billed automatically
- Check parking zones and disc requirements, see Parking disc – rules and use
- Follow the policy for charging or refuelling; upload receipts within the deadline
- Report speed cameras or traffic fines immediately – late notice often triggers admin fees
Safe use and driver responsibility
- Perform your own safety check of lights, brakes and tyres before driving, see Vehicle safety check
- Plan with generous time buffers to avoid stress and breaches of the Fundamental rule of traffic
- Report any existing damage through the app before departure – failing to do so may be charged to you
- Remember that traffic violations can lead to fees and points; consult Penalty points and reactions
Contract and documentation
- Review terms for kilometre limits, fuel, cleaning and return deadlines
- Photograph the vehicle before and after the trip (all sides and interior)
- Note fuel level, odometer and state-of-charge at start and finish
- Store receipts and submit them through the app or customer support on time
Summary
- Choose the scheme that fits your need for flexibility, price and responsibility
- Check insurance terms, deductibles and recourse before you sign
- Follow return routines for damage, parking and reporting to avoid extra costs
- You are always the responsible driver, even when the car is shared or rented