Does Thrifty require an IDP in Democratic Republic of the Congo?

Thrifty's published minimum rental age is 20 at most U.S. and Canada locations (18 in Michigan, New York, and Quebec); drivers aged 20-24 (or 18-24 in those exception states/province) are charged an Underage Drivers fee that varies by location, typically around $29/day and higher (roughly $35-$52) in New York and Michigan.

A valid credit/debit card in the renter's own name is required and a hold is placed for estimated charges plus roughly $200 extra for credit cards or $500 for debit (about $350 CAD in Canada); Visa/Mastercard/Discover debit cards are accepted only on Compact through Fullsize classes (not Premium and above) and a physical card must be presented as digital-wallet cards are not accepted.

Additional drivers must meet the minimum age requirement and hold a valid licence, and an additional-driver fee applies per day; it is waived for Blue Chip Rewards members, government renters on official orders, corporate-rate customers, and the companion/driver of a physically impaired customer. Thrifty's general policy requires a valid driver's licence covering the entire rental period but does not publish a fixed minimum tenure; in practice under-25 renters are typically expected to have held a full licence for at least one year.

Driving is generally restricted to the continental United States and Canada, and a Canadian resident is prohibited from driving a U.S.-owned vehicle into Canada; one-way rentals are offered within the U.S. and within Canada subject to location/availability with a one-way drop fee.

Foreign renters must present a driver's licence issued in their country of residence together with a valid passport; if the licence is not in English, Thrifty requires both the foreign licence and a current International Driver's Permit to be presented.

There are no nationwide electronic tolls or vignettes, though péage barriers exist on some upgraded routes such as sections around Kinshasa and the Matadi road, paid in cash (Congolese francs or USD). Carry small cash for these and for frequent checkpoints.

In Kinshasa some central zones have regulated/paid parking and informal attendants ('parking boys') who expect a tip to guard the car. Avoid leaving vehicles unattended on the street; use guarded hotel or compound parking where possible.

Traffic police frequently stop foreign drivers and may demand on-the-spot cash payments; insist on official fines and a receipt where possible. Phone use while driving and missing documents are common pretexts, so keep licence, IDP, passport copy and vehicle papers ready.

After a crash do NOT stop to aid injured parties or linger if a hostile crowd gathers - drive directly to the nearest police station or gendarmerie to report it. If safe, stay in the vehicle until police arrive; the general emergency line is 112, though response is slow.