Planning a road trip in America? Renting a car is often the best way to explore the USA, especially if you’re visiting national parks, smaller towns, or traveling between cities in the West.
This complete guide explains everything tourists need to know about car rental in the USA—including costs, requirements, insurance, and money-saving tips.
Do Tourists Need a Car in the USA?
It depends on where you’re traveling.
You Don’t Need a Car In:
- New York City
- Washington, D.C.
- Boston
These cities have excellent public transportation.
You Do Need a Car For:
- Los Angeles
- Las Vegas
- Grand Canyon
- Yosemite National Park
The USA is large, and public transport outside major cities is limited.
Average Car Rental Cost in the USA
Daily Rental Prices (Economy Car)
- Low season: $35–50 per day
- Peak season: $60–100 per day
- SUV: $70–150 per day
- Convertible (popular in California): $90–180 per day
Additional Costs:
- Insurance: $10–30/day
- GPS (optional): $5–15/day
- Additional driver: $10–15/day
- Young driver fee (under 25): $20–35/day
Requirements for Renting a Car in the USA
1. Valid Driver’s License
International tourists can use:
- Home country driver’s license (in English), or
- International Driving Permit (recommended but not always required)
2. Minimum Age
- Usually 21 years old
- Under 25 = extra young driver fee
3. Credit Card
- Required for deposit
- Debit cards are often restricted
Car Rental Insurance Explained
Understanding insurance is crucial.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW/LDW)
Covers damage to rental vehicle.
Liability Insurance
Covers damage to other vehicles/property.
Personal Accident Insurance
Covers medical expenses.
Many travel credit cards provide rental insurance—check before purchasing extra coverage.
Best Places to Rent a Car in the USA
- Airport rental counters (most convenient)
- Downtown rental offices (sometimes cheaper)
Major rental companies include:
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Alamo
Booking online in advance usually gives the best rates.
Driving Tips for Tourists in the USA
- Drive on the right side
- Speed limits are in miles per hour (mph)
- Right turn on red is allowed (unless posted otherwise)
- Watch for school buses (strict stopping rules)
- Gas stations are self-service
Fuel Costs in the USA
- Gas price: $3–5 per gallon
- 1 gallon ≈ 3.8 liters
Fuel in the USA is generally cheaper than in Europe.
Is Renting a Car Worth It in the USA?
Renting a car is worth it if:
- You’re doing a road trip
- Visiting national parks
- Traveling outside major cities
- Want flexibility and freedom
Not worth it if:
- Staying only in NYC, Boston, or Washington, D.C.
- Visiting for just 2–3 days in one city
Planning a Road Trip in the USA?
If you’re renting a car, chances are you’re planning a longer journey or scenic road adventure.
For a complete route covering national parks, coastal drives, and major cities, check out our 14-Day USA Itinerary. This detailed plan shows exactly where a rental car makes the biggest difference—especially for destinations like Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, and the Pacific Coast Highway.
Traveling with cost in mind? Our USA Itinerary on a Budget (Cost Breakdown) explains how to manage rental fees, fuel costs, and accommodation expenses while keeping your overall trip affordable. It’s perfect for travelers who want the freedom of a car without overspending.
Combining the right itinerary with smart car rental choices ensures you get maximum flexibility without exceeding your budget.
Car Rental Budget Example (7-Day Road Trip)
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Rental (Economy) | $350 – $600 |
| Insurance | $70 – $150 |
| Fuel | $80 – $150 |
| Parking | $50 – $200 |
| Total | $550 – $1,100 |
How to Save Money on Car Rental in the USA
- Book early
- Compare airport vs city pickup
- Avoid prepaid fuel options
- Use credit card insurance
- Skip unnecessary add-ons
Final Thoughts
Car rental in the USA offers freedom, flexibility, and access to places public transport simply cannot reach. Whether you’re planning a West Coast road trip, a desert adventure, or national park exploration, having your own vehicle transforms the experience.
Plan smart, book early, and enjoy the open road.
FAQs – Car Rental in the USA for Tourists
Q1: Can tourists rent a car in the USA?
Yes. A valid driver’s license and credit card are usually sufficient.
Q2: Is an International Driving Permit required?
Not always, but recommended if your license is not in English.
Q3: Is car rental expensive in the USA?
It’s affordable compared to many countries, especially outside peak season.
Q4: Do I need insurance when renting a car?
Yes, but your credit card or travel insurance may already cover it.
Q5: Can I return the car in another state?
Yes, but one-way fees may apply.
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