United States car rentals
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Cheap car rentals in the United States
Top tips for renting a car in the United States
- Many travelers choose to rent a car in the United States, as it is the best mode of transport for covering short or long distances, allowing plenty of freedom and more flexibility to explore unique landscapes. There are plenty of iconic routes that serve as road trip destinations and allow drivers to visit several states, including the classic Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway, the Oregon Trail, and the Eastern Seaboard.
- When driving in the United States, it is important to note the rules around schools and school buses. Yellow warning lights often operate in school zones, requiring traffic to slow down. The law also states that when a school bus stops to pick up children and uses its red flashing lights, traffic traveling in both directions must stop until the bus has continued moving again.
- The rules on child car seat use in the United States also vary from state to state, but when in doubt, it is best to seat all kids under the age of 12 in an appropriate restraint system in the back of the car. Rental agencies can usually provide a range of different baby and child seats, with daily prices at around $14 with an agency such as Thrifty.
- Most rental agencies allow their cars to be taken into any state in the continental United States, although it is always worth checking this in advance. Avis, for example, only allows cars rented in Texas to be driven within the state borders. Drivers wishing to visit the neighboring country of Mexico or Canada should also be sure to check the rental agency’s regulations before they rent a car in the United States. Some, such as Dollar, allow cross-border travel from certain locations only and impose an additional insurance charge of around $28 per day.
- Book your rental car in United States at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Standard rental cars in United States are around 4% more expensive than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in the United States
What is the most popular rental car in the United States?
Standard (Volkswagen Jetta or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in the United States.
What is the best rental car company in the United States?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in the United States are Alamo (8.7, 261 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7.6, 294 reviews), and Sixt (7.3, 352 reviews).
How can I find car rentals near me in the United States?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
What is driving like in United States?
Driving in the United States is a straightforward experience, with many wide, well-maintained roads and good signage. Although drivers will occasionally come across a toll road (also known as a turnpike), most highways are free to use. Driving in the United States is on the right side, and most rental cars will have automatic transmissions.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in United States?
To rent a car in the United States, the minimum age is 21 years, although many agencies require the driver to be 25 years of age and to have possessed their license for at least one year. An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is not required for drivers from most countries. Some agencies, such as Hertz, may charge a young driver fee of around $45 per day for drivers age 21 to 24.
How much does petrol cost in United States?
Petrol stations are plentiful in the United States, although when setting off on long drives across rural or desert regions, it is advised to make sure you have a full tank of gas. Most fuel stations are self-service, with pumps that pre-authorize your credit card and charge it with the amount you reach when you’re done refueling. Attendants are usually also available, if you would prefer to pay by cash or need assistance. Most cars run on petrol, which costs around $0.85 per liter or $3.20 per gallon (prices are commonly given by the gallon).
What are the speed limits in United States?
Speed limits vary from state to state in the United States, so it is important to always be aware of local signage. In general, the fastest roads are the interstates, which have a limit of about 60 to 75 mph. State roads can have speed limits ranging from 25 to 65 mph, while county roads also vary tremendously, anywhere from 15 to 55 mph. In built-up areas, speed limits tend to be around 25 to 35 mph, and sometimes slower in school zones.
Car rental directory
Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rental locations in the United States
4745 Locations
Hertz car rental locations in the United States
2623 Locations
Avis car rental locations in the United States
1545 Locations
Budget car rental locations in the United States
1492 Locations
Thrifty car rental locations in the United States
707 Locations
Dollar car rental locations in the United States
675 Locations
Easirent car rental locations in the United States
432 Locations
National car rental locations in the United States
367 Locations
Sunnycars car rental locations in the United States
329 Locations
Alamo car rental locations in the United States
269 Locations
VIPCars Recommendation car rental locations in the United States
260 Locations
Sixt car rental locations in the United States
142 Locations
Good to know
Most popular car type | Standard |
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