100 Dumb US Laws (With Proof They Exist)
When traveling around the USA, a car can become essential because of long distances and limited public transit. I’ve gathered my own experience and readers’ tips in this article, which I update regularly. I’ll point out what to watch for so you don’t fall for rental car tricks. You’ll learn how to rent a car cheaply, get a free upgrade to the next class, and more tips.
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Table of Contents
- What You Need to Know About Renting a Car in the USA
- Rental Car Requirements in the USA
- Tricks for Cheap Car Rentals in the USA
- What to Watch Out for When Renting a Car in the USA
- Rental Car Insurance in the USA
- Car Rental Prices in the USA
- Largest Car Rental Companies in the USA
- How to Pick Up Your Rental Car
- Car Rentals in the USA for Drivers Under 25
- Car Rentals in the USA for Drivers Ages 18 to 21
- Van Rentals in the USA
- RV Rentals in the USA
- Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Car in the USA
- Cheap Car Rentals in the USA
What You Need to Know About Renting a Car in the USA
Hundreds of rental companies operate in the USA, including international brands like Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Thrifty, Alamo, and Dollar. You will see the terms car rental, rent a car, rent-a-car, rental car, or car hire.
You can rent directly from a company or through a broker that usually represents most brands in a given location. You typically get a better price through a comparison site, the largest is RentalCars.com from the Booking.com group, with DiscoverCars.com as an alternative.
The cheapest option is usually booking a car online about one to three months in advance. Prices vary by city, branch, and season, with current demand having the biggest impact.
In the United States, Canada, and Mexico people drive on the right. The vast majority of rental cars have an automatic transmission. If you haven’t used one before, you will likely get used to it quickly. Manual transmission cars are available on request.
Standard equipment includes a digital dashboard with a multimedia center and air conditioning. You can connect free GPS navigation through Google Maps. If you buy an American SIM card, navigation will also show live traffic.
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Rental Car Requirements in the USA
🧑 Driver Age
- 18–20 years: The company will not rent to you, or it will offer only lower-tier models and charge an extra fee.
- 21–24 years: Most companies will rent to you, expect an Underage Driver Fee of about $25 per day.
- From 25 years: You can rent without a surcharge.
🆔 Driver’s License
In almost all cases, a European, UK, Australian, or New Zealand driver’s license is sufficient. I still recommend bringing an International Driving Permit under the Geneva Convention.
💳 Payment Card
A payment card is used to pay the rental and the deposit. A credit card is better, and the name on the card must match one of the drivers. Some companies or their staff may refuse a debit card, require a higher deposit, or ask for additional documents. Experiences with debit cards vary in the USA, personally I had no problem using a ČSOB card in Google Pay.
🛂 Passport
A passport is used to verify the driver’s identity. When you pick up the car, staff usually scan it or make a copy.
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Tricks for Cheap Car Rentals in the USA
You can usually lower the price of a car rental. The following rules have worked well for me, and I recommend combining them.
💡 RentalCars.com Lowest Price Guarantee
RentalCars.com is a Czech-language booking portal for car rentals and part of the Booking.com group. Over the last 12 years I have rented through them on every continent. The advantages include solid customer support and, for selected offers, a lowest price guarantee. If you find a better offer elsewhere, they will refund the difference.
💡 A Competitive Offer from DiscoverCars.com
In recent years a capable competitor has emerged, and I increasingly rent through DiscoverCars.com. DiscoverCars.com stands out for its wide selection of rental companies and good prices. Especially for shorter rentals, I do not have to deal with invoking RentalCars.com’s price guarantee.
💡 When to Book Your Car Rental in the USA
There is no guaranteed answer, many factors affect price. The lowest prices are often one to three months before pickup. Expect higher prices during summer vacations, around Christmas, and on public holidays due to increased demand.
💡 Which Car Class Should You Choose?
Pick a class based on the number of passengers and the length of your route. For multiweek road trips, the larger the car, the more comfortable you will be. I do not recommend the smallest economy cars, they are not very comfortable for long drives. Convertibles also offer less space and tend to lose their novelty after a few days. Personally, I now choose comfortable SUVs or crossovers, preferably with higher ground clearance.
Economy cars are the cheapest. Mid-size cars cost about 5 to 15 percent more, comfortable SUVs about 20 to 25 percent more, and convertibles are roughly 65 to 75 percent more than the cheapest class.
When you pick up the car, you will often be offered an upgrade, a higher class at a lower price. The choice is yours. If your reserved class is not available, ask for a better car without paying extra.
💡 Airport Rental or Downtown Location?
Airport locations are often better value because competition is greater. Some places add an airport access fee, but on the other hand each traveler will not have to pay for transport into the city, and it is more convenient. For multiweek rentals, also check downtown prices.
💡 Return the Car to the Same Place You Pick It Up
You can return a car to a different branch, city, or even state, but there is usually a fee. It is more cost effective to pick up and return at the same place.
💡 Rental Is Charged for Every 24-Hour Period Started
A common rule is that you pay for every 24-hour period begun. If you pick up at 3:00 p.m., return by 3:00 p.m. If you set return for 3:30 p.m., you will usually be charged another day. Some companies allow more flexible returns without a fee.
💡 Compare Offers from Multiple Rental Companies Online
If you compare offers from several companies, your odds of finding a better deal go up. You do not need to open each website one by one, just use a price comparison tool.
💡 How to Get a Better Car Cheap or Free
This trick works at smaller branches. Reserve the smallest class, since demand for it is low. If you come to pick up around midday, that class is often already gone. The company will then offer you a better car at no extra charge.
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What to Watch Out for When Renting a Car in the USA
The following tips will help you avoid the most common mistakes when renting a car in the USA.
⚠️ The Advertised Price May Not Be Final
This is a favorite trick used to advertise rentals for only a few dollars. The price covers only the base rental, not taxes or hidden fees such as airport return charges. Additional restrictions may apply. An offer that looks great at first glance can quickly turn into a bad deal.
⚠️ Mileage May Be Limited
Some companies limit the number of miles you can drive and charge for overages. The fee varies by company, as a rough guide expect $0.15 to $0.25 per mile over the limit. Big brands rarely use this practice. If you know your total mileage, this does not have to be a problem.
⚠️ Limits on Where You Can Drive
Rental terms clearly state where you can take the car. Because of insurance, trips to Mexico are usually prohibited, while travel to Canada is possible with prior approval. Restrictions on travel to other U.S. states such as California or Nevada are not common.
Again, it is not very common, but read that part of the contract carefully. Rental cars have built-in GPS trackers and violating the rule typically carries a hefty contractual penalty.
⚠️ Check Reviews for the Specific Branch
Do not look only at the company’s overall rating. In Google Maps, read recent reviews for the exact branch. For example, the small company Green Car Rental Los Angeles near the airport has a score of only 2.4/10.
⚠️ Don’t Let Them Upsell You on Extras
Companies try to increase profit per customer by pushing add-ons at pickup such as GPS, insurance, or assistance hotlines. I recommend paying for the level of coverage you want through RentalCars.com. Before pickup, check whether your routes include toll roads. Some companies also push overpriced, and often unnecessary, toll passes.
⚠️ Buy Fuel at a Gas Station
The standard rule is full to full, you receive the car with a full tank and return it full. I recommend refueling 9 mi–12 mi before the branch. If you return it less than full, the company will refill it at its own price, which is usually higher. See the guide on how to refuel in the USA.
⚠️ You Pay a Penalty for Late Returns
Rental is charged for every 24-hour period begun. If you do not return on time, the company charges another day. Tolerance depends on the staffer, sometimes being 15 minutes late already triggers a charge.
⚠️ Second and Third Drivers Cost Extra
If you will share driving, always list the additional driver in the rental agreement. There is usually a fee of about $10.00 per day. Terms vary, some companies include a spouse for free. Do not cheat. If an unlisted driver causes an accident, insurance will not apply and the damages are paid out of pocket.
⚠️ Child Car Seats in the USA
Child seats are usually required for ages 2 to 7, and kids under 12 may not sit in the front seat. Rules vary by state and are listed on the Governors Highway Safety Association website.
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Rental Car Insurance in the USA
When renting a car, I recommend full coverage. There are many types of coverage in the USA, in practice you will see the following. For all of them, read the terms carefully, especially the deductible.
🛡️ SLP (Supplemental Liability Protection)
SLP is similar to mandatory third-party liability insurance, covering injury and property damage you cause to others. In almost all U.S. states, liability insurance is required by law with different minimum limits. Bodily injury limits range from $25,000 to $50,000 per person, property damage limits from $10,000 to $25,000.
🛡️ SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance)
SLI is optional coverage that raises SLP limits up to $1,000,000. Terms vary by offer.
🛡️ CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)
CDW is collision coverage for damage you cause to the rental car. Pricing depends on pickup location and car class, expect roughly $10.00 to $30 per day.
CDW typically excludes tires, glass, undercarriage, and seat upholstery. Coverage is void in cases of intent, driving under the influence, or driver negligence. Leaving the car unattended with the key in the ignition is also considered negligence.
🛡️ SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver)
An add-on to CDW that also covers the undercarriage, glass, tires, and upholstery. SCDW is usually sold with a zero deductible, so you pay nothing out of pocket if a covered loss occurs.
🛡️ LDW (Loss Damage Waiver)
LDW covers total loss after an at-fault accident. It is essentially a higher tier of CDW. A deductible in the hundreds of dollars is common.
🛡️ FDW (Full Damage Waiver)
Comprehensive coverage that is usually unlimited and has no deductible, but often excludes undercarriage, wheels, glass, and upholstery.
🛡️ TP (Theft Protection)
This coverage protects you in case the car is stolen.
🛡️ PEC (Personal Effects Coverage)
Covers personal belongings carried in the car, costs about $2.00 per day with a limit around $500. If the car is broken into or a crash damages your belongings, you receive compensation.
🛡️ PAI (Personal Accident Insurance)
Accident insurance for occupants covers medical costs for everyone in the rental car. It also pays in case of a fatal accident. Premiums are around $3.00 per day, with limits of about $3,500.
🛡️ UMP (Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection)
UMP protects against damage to the vehicle and passengers caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
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Car Rental Prices in the USA
Price depends mainly on location, current demand, car class, included insurance, and other factors.
During the 2020 COVID pandemic, most companies sold off their fleets. When demand returned in late 2021 and 2022, they had to invest heavily to buy new cars, which unfortunately pushed rental prices up significantly.
Before the pandemic, you could rent a car from $25 per day. In 2025, count on at least $39 per day including insurance for the smallest class. For a quick ballpark, I recommend running a no-obligation quote.
💵 How Much Will Your Car Rental Cost?
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Largest Car Rental Companies in the USA
Hundreds of companies operate in the USA, and the biggest brands are often the cheapest. The largest group is Enterprise Holdings, Inc., with a fleet of 2.5 million cars and approximately 9,500+ branches in more than 90 countries worldwide. The group includes Alamo, Enterprise, and National.
I last verified the number of locations and ownership structure on October 7, 2025.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car is the largest network in the USA with 4,138 branches and strong coverage in city centers. Enterprise targets a broad range of customers, including business travelers and locals. The company is part of Enterprise Holdings, Inc.
Hertz Car Rental operates 2,719 branches in the USA, with a solid premium offering and a notable loyalty program. Hertz serves the full spectrum of customers, including tourists and business travelers. The company is part of Hertz Global Holdings, Inc.
Avis Car Rental runs 1,405 branches across the USA. Avis targets the premium segment, especially business travelers and demanding customers. It offers luxury cars and the Avis Preferred loyalty program with express services. Avis is part of Avis Budget Group, Inc.
Budget Rent a Car has 1,312 branches across the USA and targets price-sensitive customers. Budget differentiates itself with flexible terms and lower prices. It is part of Avis Budget Group.
National Car Rental has 305 locations in the USA. It focuses on business and frequent travelers who value speed and flexibility. The Emerald Club loyalty program lets members choose a car directly from the lot with minimal paperwork. National is part of Enterprise.
Thrifty Car Rental operates 290 branches in the United States. Thrifty targets customers for whom a low price is key. Thrifty shares locations with Dollar Rent A Car to increase availability. Both brands belong to the Hertz group.
Alamo Rent a Car has 243 branches in the USA and focuses on families and budget-minded travelers. Advantages include simple online check-in and self-service kiosks that speed up pickup. Alamo is part of Enterprise Holdings.
Dollar Rent A Car has 228 branches in the USA, some shared with Thrifty since both belong to Hertz Global Holdings. Dollar targets price-sensitive customers for whom the lowest possible rental price is crucial.
Payless Car Rental operates around 120 branches in the USA. Payless focuses on customers who want basic services at the lowest prices. Payless belongs to Avis Budget Group and generally offers lower prices and less strict terms than the other brands in the group.
Sixt Rent A Car runs about a hundred branches in the USA. Sixt targets business travelers and discerning clients who prefer premium and luxury cars. A strength is the broad selection of vehicles and a strong presence in Europe. Sixt is not part of any major holding company.
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How to Pick Up Your Rental Car
1️⃣ Rental Car Deposit in the USA
At pickup, present a payment card for the deposit. The amount varies by company and location, it may be about 25 percent of the price or a flat $200. The higher amount usually applies. Funds are not charged, only held.
2️⃣ Decline Payment in Any Currency Other Than Dollars
Some companies offer to charge in euros, British pounds, or Australian dollars using Dynamic Currency Conversion. The exchange rate is very poor, always insist on paying in U.S. dollars.
3️⃣ Read the Rental Agreement Carefully
Before you sign, read the contract thoroughly. Resist any pressure from staff and ask questions if anything is unclear.
4️⃣ Photograph Any Damage Before You Leave
You will receive a condition report showing existing damage. Photograph or video all scratches, tire inflation, and fuel level from every angle as proof. Report any discrepancies immediately.
5️⃣ What to Ask at the Counter
Ask about anything unclear: “Are there any special laws or rules here? Are the car’s documents in the glove box? Do I refuel with gas or diesel? How does the roof fold? Whom do I call if I crash?” Save the roadside assistance number so you do not have to hunt for it later.
6️⃣ Get Familiar with the Car
Still at the branch, get comfortable with the car. Adjust the seat, try the lights and wipers, and look over the shifter. Ask about anything you do not understand. On a safe stretch, test the brakes and acceleration so you know how it responds. Also read the guide on driving and traffic rules in the USA.
7️⃣ How to Skip the Line at the Rental Counter
With Thrifty, it pays to register online for the free loyalty program before pickup. Registration gets you a Priority Pass so you can skip the line at the branch. One reader confirmed this worked at Thrifty at Los Angeles Airport.
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Car Rentals in the USA for Drivers Under 25
Drivers ages 21 to 25 need to expect some restrictions. Companies assume a higher risk of accidents and usually charge an extra daily fee for these drivers.
The underage fee varies by state and company, as a guide expect $15.00 to $25 per day. The best approach is to create a no-obligation reservation to see the final price. Differences in the base car price often offset differences in the fee.
You usually will not encounter the surcharge in Michigan and New York, which regulate this practice heavily.
Some companies restrict the categories available to under-25 drivers. The strictest are Avis, Budget, and Thrifty, which do not rent SUVs, vans, or luxury sports cars to young drivers. By contrast, Alamo and Enterprise do not restrict choices.
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Car Rentals in the USA for Drivers Ages 18 to 21
Young drivers from 18 up to 21 have a tougher time. Big brands usually refuse to rent due to the risk of damage, with only a few exceptions.
E-Z Rent A Car offers lower-tier models at all branches for drivers 18 and older with valid liability insurance. Fox Rent A Car is the most favorable. It rents at all branches to drivers 19 and older, with an underage fee of $25 per day.
In Michigan and New York, companies must rent to drivers ages 18 to 21 in line with state law. This category may still face restrictions on available models, and an Underage Fee up to $50 per day is very common.
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Van Rentals in the USA
Almost every company rents vans, and again it is better to book online in advance. Listings use “minivan” or “12+ seat people carrier,” with Chevrolet Express and Ford E350 the most common models.
Vans are a good choice if you do not want to pay for motels and can make do with a sleeping bag in the back. They usually have air conditioning and an automatic transmission. In cheaper locations, prices start around $75 per day.
A standard driver’s license plus an International Driving Permit is enough to drive vans for 8/10/12 people. A U.S. commercial license is generally required only for vehicles designed for 16 or more passengers.
- No-obligation van rental price estimate in the USA
- Van rental in the USA (detailed guide)
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RV Rentals in the USA
An RV is a hotel on wheels, called an “RV” or “motor home” in the USA. A standard driver’s license and an International Driving Permit are enough to rent one.
Traveling by RV has pros and cons. On the plus side, lodging costs are lower, you avoid hunting for motels, constant packing and unpacking, and you have more freedom in your schedule. You are not tied to hotel reservations, and if you like a place, you can stay for several days.
Downsides include the size and the experience required to handle it. You travel slower, parking is harder, and some places are off limits. You may park only in designated areas or campgrounds, where fees are higher than for a basic tent site.
Standard car rental brands do not rent RVs in the USA, so look for specialists like CruiseAmerica.com. Nightly rates start around $100, and you also pay per mile. Read about our experience traveling by RV in the USA.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Car in the USA
How High Is the Deposit for a Rental Car?
The deposit depends on the company, vehicle type, and rental length. For a rental of $1,000, expect $250 to $400.The deposit serves as security in case of damage. At pickup the company places a hold on your card, and if you return the car undamaged, the hold is released. Funds will become available according to your bank’s policies over the next few days.
I’ll Be in the USA for Several Months. Isn’t It Cheaper to Buy an Older Car?
Buying an older car and selling it before departure is cheaper on paper. Unfortunately, the registration process is so complicated for visitors that renting is usually better.One requirement is a permanent residence for the owner in the state of registration, which you will not meet as a tourist. A workaround is visitor.us, which forms a company for you in Montana, where you do not need a U.S. driver’s license and the sales tax on car purchases is 0 percent. Your new company owns the vehicle, and plates are mailed to you.
I Don’t Have a Credit Card. Will That Be a Problem?
Most companies prefer a credit card for the deposit hold. That said, I have rented in the USA without issues using a standard debit card. The key is that it is embossed. Even if you have a debit card, tell them it is credit.What Does “or Similar” Mean in Rental Listings?
It means a car from a different manufacturer but the same class, for example SUV or compact. Companies cannot guarantee the availability of each exact model, so instead of a Ford Escape they might offer a Toyota RAV4 or Jeep Grand Cherokee.Where Can I Rent a Car for a Trip to Mexico?
Most companies prohibit travel to Mexico. An exception is reportedly Fox Rent A Car, which allows it if you purchase Mexican liability insurance at the counter.Experiences With Renting a Car via Turo.com
Turo.com is a platform where individuals rent out their own cars. With a bit of exaggeration, think of it as “Airbnb for vehicles.” Users choose a car by location, date, and price on the website or in the app. Booking and payment are online, and the owner hands over the car in person or via the app.Turo.com can be cheaper than a traditional rental company. The main downside is less certainty about vehicle condition, some cars may be older or less well maintained. Compared with standard companies, Turo also has a higher risk of last-minute cancellations.
I do not have personal experience with Turo.com, and the risk of worse car condition or a last-minute cancellation puts me off.
💡 Get the Best Price by Comparing Three Aggregators
➡️ Compare Car Rental Prices in the USA
Cheap Car Rentals in the USA
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car in the USA?
- No Hidden Fees
The prices stated at the time of reservation are always final, providing a clear overview of your expenses. - Lowest Price Guarantee
If you find the same deal at a lower price elsewhere, RentalCars will refund the difference. - Cancellation Is Free of Charge
Most bookings can be cancelled or altered free of charge up to 48 hours before collection.
Discussion (6)
I rented cars in Los Angeles twice, each with a different experience.
First time, I chose a compact Toyota Corolla. It was fuel efficient and easy to park, but a bit cramped for my family of 5.
On my second trip, I opted for a Ford Explorer SUV. It provided more room and comfort, but was bit harder to find parking spaces in busy areas.
Make sure to consider your needs and itinerary when selecting a car!
Having rented cars in various states across the USA for both business and leisure, I’ve navigated the maze of insurance options more times than I can count. The article does a great job highlighting the importance of understanding what each insurance type covers, but I’d like to add a few personal insights that might help others.
Firstly, the significance of SLP cannot be overstated. On a trip to California, I was involved in a minor accident that resulted in damage to another vehicle. Because I had opted for SLP, the insurance covered the damages without any issues. It’s a safety net you don’t want to skip, especially considering the legal requirements and the peace of mind it offers while driving in unfamiliar territory.
Regarding CDW, the article mentions the exclusions, which I learned about the hard way. A rental in Nevada got a cracked windshield due to a flying pebble on the highway. I assumed the CDW would cover it, but since windows were excluded, I was out of pocket for the repair. Always double-check what’s included and consider additional coverage for these exclusions if you’re planning to drive in areas where such damage is more likely.
Lastly, the SLI’s high coverage limit might seem overkill to some, but in today’s litigious society, it’s a buffer that can protect you from financial ruin. I’ve thankfully never had to rely on it, but knowing it’s there if needed is worth the extra cost.
In summary, always read the fine print and assess your risk tolerance when choosing insurance options. Each state can have its quirks, and what might be optional in one could be compulsory in another. Safe travels!
Hi:) I have a question about renting a car in the U.S. If I understood the article correctly, the problem is who the rental car is registered to (I mean age under 25) but the problem is that I’m 20 and I can’t drive…:) (situation : we will have 2 drivers – one over 25, one 20, the car will be registered to the older one but both can take turns driving???) thanks for the answer:)
Hey, Kelly,
you can sign the car over to the older of the two of you, but if you want to drive it, you’ll have to put yourself on the policy as the other driver. Only then can you officially get behind the wheel. Although – who gets behind the wheel in real life is up to you. :)
I have the following question. We are a group of about 20-25 people going to the USA. One of us has a fully completed driving licence – including group “D” – bus. Is it possible to rent a bus in the USA? If so, can the holder of a Slovak group “D” licence drive it? Alternatively, under what conditions? Thank you.
Hi, Jaro,
I don’t have any experience with it, but it should work. There are several conditions, such as at least 25 years of age, full liability insurance, and of course a valid driver’s license. It’s probably best to post the exact driver information on a site like RentABus, which offers driverless bus rental.