Essential Guide to Renting a Car in the United States

Whether you're new to the U.S., visiting for pleasure, or on a business trip, renting a car can be an excellent way to explore. Purchasing a vehicle immediately may not be feasible, but car rentals offer flexibility and convenience. While taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are common, renting a car is often more cost-effective for longer stays or sightseeing. It allows you to travel at your own pace and visit remote locations easily.

Most rental cars in the U.S. feature automatic transmissions; if you prefer a manual, contact rental agencies ahead of time to confirm availability. A valid driver’s license is required; a license from your home country is acceptable if you’ve been in the U.S. for less than six months, as long as it contains details in English. For additional drivers, they must be registered and meet age requirements, typically between 25 and 70 years old, with extra charges possibly applying outside this range.

Rental counters are conveniently located at most airports, making pickup and drop-off straightforward, especially for short trips. Be sure to clarify if dropping off the vehicle at a different location incurs extra fees. Always confirm policies regarding return locations and costs during booking.