United States car rentals

Standard (Volkswagen Jetta or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type 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, 250 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7.5, 291 reviews), and Sixt (7.3, 341 reviews).

Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

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.

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.

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).

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.