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Pick-up location | New York |
---|---|
Car types | Compact, Compact SUV, Economy, Full-size, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, People carrier, Standard, Standard SUV |
Hire locations | 131 |
Airport locations | 42 |
Popular agencies | Ace, Avis, Getaround |
Economy | £20/day |
Compact | £19/day |
Intermediate | £18/day |
Standard | £8/day |
Full-size | £26/day |
People carrier | £32/day |
Full-size SUV | £44/day |
Intermediate SUV | £28/day |
Compact SUV | £33/day |
Standard SUV | £36/day |
What type of car is recommended for driving in New York City?Smaller vehicles are highly recommended for vacation-goers in New York City, especially if you plan to use a hire car as your main form of transportation. There are many one-way streets and smaller alleys that can be difficult to navigate with a larger car. It can also be difficult to find streetside parallel parking spots large enough to suit anything above a mid-sized vehicle.
A wide range of speed limits will be seen in New York City, but the most important detail to note is that the speed limit is always 25 mph unless signage says otherwise. On highways throughout New York, the maximum speed limit is 55 mph and the minimum is 45 mph, unless posted otherwise.
Streetside parking in New York City is incredibly difficult to find, especially in areas such as Manhattan. Thus, many drivers rely heavily on parking garages for both daily and hourly parking. However, planning must be done in advance as many of the garages can fill up fast, so it pays to plan ahead of time to know which garages are most convenient for your destination.
On average a car hire in New York costs £54 per day.
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies in New York are Alamo (8.5, 210 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (8.3, 212 reviews), and Avis (7.0, 306 reviews).
The average price of fuel in New York is £3.14 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between £38 and £50, depending on the car size.
Intermediate (Toyota RAV4 or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in New York.
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
An Intermediate car hire in New York costs £58 per day, on average.
A Full Size car hire in New York costs £71 per day, on average.
A Standard car hire in New York costs £83 per day, on average.
On average a car hire in New York costs £381 per week (£54 per day).
On average a car hire in New York costs £1,632 per month (£54 per day).
Most car hire providers in New York offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car hire in New York, check out KAYAK's car hire insurance guide.
If you are in the US with a child, you will have to take the law of child safety into consideration when hiring a car. New York law states all children older than 8 must wear a seat belt and children under the age of 4 will need a car or booster seat, depending on their size or weight. Your car hire company can help you with the most appropriate size for the child and you can hire the chair for a small daily fee. Alternatively, you’re always welcome to bring your own car seat.
With a cheap car hire in New York you will find most agencies allow you to choose the fuel refill option of your choice. ‘Full-to-full’ or ‘same-to-same’ are probably best because this way you will only replace the fuel you use on your trip. It often works out better than a full tank policy, which will charge you for fuel in the car regardless of whether you use it or not. Car hire companies do not refund fuel so if you are on the roads for a short time in New York you will lose money this way.
19 locations in New York
Locations in New York
126 West 55th Street
+1 212 486 5925
157 West 83rd Street
+1 212 724 2504
18 Morton Street
+1 212 486 5395
21 East 12th Street
+1 212 372 3957
22 Marine Air Terminal
+1 718 478 5300
250 Albany Street
+1 646 253 1692
310 E. 48th St.
+1 212 486 5910
323 West 34th Street
+1 212 486 5065
332 East 76th Street
+1 212 585 4085
335 Canal Street
2122346400
337 E. 64th St.
+1 212 249 5825
403 Lafayette St
+1 646 602 6736
4320 Broadway
+1 212 740 7714
44-07 Vernon Blvd
+1 646 751 8534
500 West 43rd St
+1 212 486 5912
6216 Metropolitan Ave
+1 718 381 2913
Building 318
+1 718 656 7600
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Apr 2024
2.0 Poor
Apr 2024
2.0 Poor
Apr 2024
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2024
2.0 Poor
Jan 2024
2.0 Poor
Jan 2024
8 locations in New York
Locations in New York
142 East 31st Street
+1 212 661 5906
220 East 9th Street
+1 212 477 7180
222 East 44th Street
+1 646 559 6552
300 East 87th Street
+1 212 289 3920
304 West 49th Street
+1 212 397 4375
331 West 58th Street
+1 212 444 7310
88-08 23rd Avenue
+1 718 639 6400
Building 305 Federal Circle
+1 718 656 1890
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2024
2.0 Poor
Apr 2024
2.0 Poor
Mar 2024
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2024
2.0 Poor
Feb 2024
2.0 Poor
Feb 2024
6 locations in New York
Locations in New York
263 West 52nd Street
+1 212 586 5452
329 E 22nd St
+1 866 434 2226
339 South End Ave
+1 866 434 2226
45-01 20th Ave
+1 718 779 7456
99 Charles St
+1 866 434 2226
Building 318 Federal Circle
+1 866 434 2226
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Mar 2024
2.0 Poor
Mar 2024
2.0 Poor
Feb 2024
2.0 Poor
Dec 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2023
2.0 Poor
Oct 2023
4 locations in New York
Locations in New York
313 W 56th St
+1 646 692 4999
332 W 44th St
+1 888 826 6893
743 Broadway
+1 888 826 6893
Building 308 Federal Circle
+1 844 648 1611
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2024
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2024
2.0 Poor
Mar 2024
8.0 Very Good
Dec 2023
4.0 Mediocre
Dec 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2023
16 locations in New York
Locations in New York
106 W 24th St
+1 212 647 9777
13007 Merrick Blvd
+1 718 949 5200
139 -24 Hillside Ave
+1 718 526 2200
147 W 83rd St
+1 212 873 7474
162 E 126th St
+1 212 987 3624
165-07 Northern Blvd
+1 718 460 5400
221 Thompson Street
+1 212 533 2900
2518 38th Ave
+1 718 472 5200
305 E 80th St
+1 646 422 2600
315 E 40th St
+1 212 847 8120
36-15 Queens Blvd
+1 929 208 4486
403 E 65th St
+1 646 422 2600
50 West 44th Street
+1 217 730 6151
57 W 53rd St
+1 212 730 6151
667 11th Ave
+1 212 262 3231
Building 69 Federal Circle
+1 844 648 1609
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2024
6.0 Okay
Feb 2024
2.0 Poor
Oct 2023
2.0 Poor
May 2021
Pros:
No!!Cons:
Called me and told me we will call you around 3 to confirm your pickup never called Back.10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2021
Pros:
Staff was friendly and attentive. The car was greatCons:
Na10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2021
Pros:
Very respectful of COVID precautions, very little interaction but still friendly, helpful sales representatives.13 locations in New York
Locations in New York
120 Warren Street
+1 917 591 9977
153 West 54th Street
+1 212 593 8470
216 West 76th Street
+1 212 595 0358
220 West 31st Street
+1 646 733 5995
225 East 43rd Street
+1 212 682 1860
240 East 92nd Street
+1 212 444 7276
310 East 64th Street
+1 212 593 8363
4545 Center Boulevard
+1 347 448 8670
515 West 43rd Street
+1 646 473 0088
540 Park Avenue
+1 212 593 8363
68 East 11th Street
+1 212 593 8397
808 Columbus Ave
+1 212 666 3593
Building #305 Federal Circle
+1 718 244 5400
Filters
Reviews
6.0 Okay
Apr 2024
4.0 Mediocre
Feb 2024
2.0 Poor
Dec 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2023
8.0 Very Good
Dec 2023
4.0 Mediocre
Dec 2023
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
25 Bowery Bay Blvd
+1 718 446 0824
305 Federal Circle
+1 718 244 8277
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Dec 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2023
10.0 Wonderful
May 2021
Pros:
Pickup and drop off easy. JFK is JFK so getting in and out of airport less than ideal.10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2021
Pros:
i came here after my reservation with ACE fell through - these guys brought me an upgrade in about 5 minutes despite not even having a registration for more than half an hour. was really impressed, & that's not something i'm used to saying about car rental places.Cons:
one "invisible bill", possibly linked to a toll bridge...or is that troll bridge? hmm10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2021
Pros:
Yes easy smooth in and outCons:
Car was ok nothing great8.0 Very Good
Mar 2021
Cons:
printer working in lobby3 locations in New York
Locations in New York
20 Morris Street
+1 888 749 8227
312 Federal Cir
+1 888 749 8227
90-05 25th Avenue
+1 888 749 8227
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2024
4.0 Mediocre
Mar 2024
4.0 Mediocre
Dec 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2023
2.0 Poor
Nov 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2023
3 locations in New York
Locations in New York
148 W 83rd St
+1 212 257 6725
312 Federal Circle
+1 877 283 0898
45-01 20th Avenue
+1 718 779 7456
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2024
8.0 Very Good
Apr 2024
2.0 Poor
Mar 2024
2.0 Poor
Feb 2024
10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2023
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
318 Federal Circle
+1 718 632 1632
90-05 25th Ave
+1 718 424 8504
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Apr 2019
Pros:
NothingCons:
Give people refunds when they refuse to re t them cars6.8 Okay
Mar 2019
Cons:
Friendly staff8.0 Very Good
Mar 2019
Cons:
The location was farther then I expected.10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2019
Pros:
Pick up and drop off was very easy. The price was fair and never changed. Vehicle was as described and clean. They even had a snow brush in the car as it is wintertime. I would definitely use them again.10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2018
Pros:
Convenient service . And the woman behind the counter was awesomeCons:
Nothing at all5.2 Fair
Nov 2018
Pros:
The price was very affordable. Both drivers that picked me up or dropped me in lga were very nice and friendly.Cons:
The ladies at the desk were disasters. They were busy playing with each other instead of assisting customers. I had to reminder them many time that I had to go. The lady that help helped to me said I had to upgrade because my car size was not available even though reserved ahead of time. Which I declined but she charged me aways for the upgrade. I spent over 30 mins to get my rental.One location in New York
Locations in New York
124-10 S Conduit Avenue
+1 855 588 0008
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2024
8.0 Very Good
Jan 2024
6.0 Okay
Jan 2024
2.0 Poor
Oct 2023
4.0 Mediocre
Sept 2023
2.0 Poor
Sept 2023
4 locations in New York
Locations in New York
313 W 56th St
+1 646 692 3999
332 W 44th St
+1 212 575 5400
743 Broadway
+1 212 366 5423
Building 308 Federal Circle
+1 844 648 1610
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Jun 2021
Cons:
I just checked my bank account and I got charged $658.56 for my car rental. It should've been $408.56. Please correct this amount ASAP otherwise I will dispute the charge with Chase.10.0 Wonderful
Dec 2020
Pros:
The staff was super helpful and friendly. One of the best experiences I've had picking up a car in NYC.Cons:
I wish the tank was full when I picked it up. It's a bit more complex to return a tank at 5/8 than to return one that is full.2.0 Poor
Oct 2020
Cons:
I never got any sort of confirmation, therefore was not able to rent the car6.8 Okay
Aug 2020
Pros:
The staff was helpful, although a little slow.Cons:
The car looked very used and smelled like smoke.9.6 Wonderful
Jun 2020
Pros:
Staff was very helpful and friendly10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2020
Pros:
ExcellentCons:
Excellent2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
10 Columbus Circle
+1 855 359 2227
650 W. 42nd St.
+1 855 359 2227
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Sept 2019
Pros:
The whole experience was excellent, but mainly I want to praise the staff for being super friendly and overall helpful.10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2019
Pros:
Staff was amazing - really nice and helpfulCons:
The entrance to the office is not pedestrian friendly - I have to walk up and down an active driveway8.0 Very Good
Nov 2017
Pros:
Car was excellent, no charge for EZ pass!!Cons:
Hard to find and reliance on App was a little cumbersome for first time3 locations in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
3 locations in New York
Locations in New York
15-02 131 Street
+1 718 353 6848
189-03 Northern Blvd
+1 718 353 6848
98-28 Queens Boulevard
+1 718 353 6848
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
286 Hudson ST
+1 347 704 3000
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
163-33 Cross Bay Blvd, Queens, NY 美国
+1 917 224 9809
New York Airport La Guardia LGA
+1 718 424 8504
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
150-32 North Conduit Avenue
+1 718 565 7222
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
New York Airport La Guardia LGA
+1 718 424 8504
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
124-10 S Conduit Ave, South Ozone Park
+1 877 326 7368
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
90-05 25TH AVE, PROCEED TO THE ADVANTAGE SHUTTLEBUS, Jackson Heights
+1 718 424 8504
Jfk Airport Building 340, New York
+1 718 632 1632
Filters
No reviews available
6 locations in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
4 locations in New York
Locations in New York
200 E. 33rd St
+1 646 650 2500
229 W.60th Street
212-784-8700
37-10 114th Street
+1 646 650 2500
741 Broadway
646-650-2500
Filters
No reviews available
3 locations in New York
Locations in New York
148E 33rd st
+1 212 679 4747
55 west end ave & 62nd st.
+1 212 957 1525
72-12 Queens Blvd
+1 718 335 0209
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
315 West 96th St
+1 888 500 8460
506 West 181st St.
+1 888 500 8480
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
318 Federal Cir, Jamaica, Queens County, New York
+1 718 632 1632
90-05 25th Ave, Flushing, Queens County, New York
+1 718 424 8504
Filters
No reviews available
2 locations in New York
Locations in New York
332 W 44Th St, New York, , USA New York
+1 914 368 0091
743 Broadway, New York, , USA New York
+1 914 368 0091
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
124-10 S Conduit Avenue
+1 855 588 0008
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
133 west Broadway
+1 800 211 7601
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
Please Go To Fox Counter
+1 877 777 0010
Filters
No reviews available
One location in New York
Locations in New York
229-20 S Conduit Ave, Jamaica
+1 718 413 0000
Filters
No reviews available
Most popular agency | Budget |
---|---|
Most popular car type | Intermediate |
Average price | £54/day |
Good deal | £43/day |
While navigating in New York City can be intimidating, renting a car can allow you to explore beyond the subway or public transportation confines. However, before you hit the road, there are some essential things you need to know.
New York City is on everyone’s travel bucket list. However, getting around the city can be challenging, with crowded public transport and constant traffic jams. Renting a car in New York City can provide a convenient and comfortable way to navigate the city’s five boroughs - and beyond. But with the fast-paced lifestyle and busy streets, driving in the city can be daunting for first-time visitors. Knowing the various regulations, requirements, and challenges of driving in the city is essential. Here’s how to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience in the city that never sleeps.
Before renting a car in New York City, you must have a valid driver’s license from your home country or state. You may need an international driver’s license and your home country’s license if you are an international visitor. Most car rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21, but some may have a minimum age requirement of 25. You will also need a credit card for the rental deposit and insurance purposes. Many agencies do not accept cash or debit card deposits.
New York City has various car rental options, from economy cars to luxury SUVs. However, due to the city’s narrow streets and limited parking spaces, renting a compact or mid-size vehicle is recommended for easy maneuvering.
Major car rental agencies have multiple locations throughout New York City, with the most extensive selection available at the city’s airports. If you arrive at one of the city’s airports (JFK, EWR, LGA) you can easily find the rental car offices in or near the terminal. Most rental agencies offer shuttle services to transport customers to their rental location if it is not within walking distance. However, at JFK, you can take the AirTrain to Federal Circle, where all major rental car companies have lots. When returning the car, check with the rental agency for the specific drop-off location and operating hours.
Renting a car in New York City and driving to neighboring states or outside the country is possible. However, you must check with your rental agency for additional restrictions or paperwork. For example, if you plan to drive to Canada, you may need additional documentation, such as a Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card.
If you plan to drive in the city, consider adding a GPS or mobile Wi-Fi to your rental for convenience. Some rental agencies offer additional options, such as toll passes or child safety seats.
Most rental agencies offer additional insurance coverage for an extra fee. It’s important to review the insurance options carefully and choose a policy that suits your needs. The basic coverage typically includes liability insurance, which covers damage to other vehicles and property, and collision damage waiver, which covers damage to the rental car. Some credit cards also provide rental car insurance, so check your credit card policy before purchasing additional insurance from the rental agency.
The city's roads can be congested, and traffic can move slowly, especially during rush hour. Planning ahead and giving yourself plenty of time to get to where you’re going is essential. Only in New York can it take 30 minutes to go 2 miles!
Driving in New York City can be intimidating for first-time visitors. The city has many one-way streets and tight turns, so paying attention to road signs and signals is important. Local drivers tend to be assertive and may drive aggressively, so stay alert and drive defensively. The speed limit in New York City is typically 25 mph but can vary depending on the area. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different road signs and signals before hitting the road.
Finding parking in New York City can be challenging, especially in popular tourist areas. Street parking is available throughout the city, but checking for parking regulations and metered parking rates is important. Some areas may have free parking during specific hours, so check for signs. Paid parking garages and lots are also available throughout the city, with rates varying depending on location and time of day.
Parking apps are very handy when you want to find parking in NYC, especially if you are not a local. With those you can not only find parking, but also secure a free parking spot close to your destination. Some of the most popular and handy apps are ParkMe, SpotAngels, ParkWhiz and SpotHero.
Gas stations can be found throughout New York City, but prices may vary depending on the location. Beware that there are very few gas stations in Manhattan, so if you plan on driving within the borough, plan to fuel up elsewhere. Gas prices can be less expensive across the river in New Jersey, where gas stations are also full-service, meaning you don’t need to leave your vehicle. For electric cars, charging stations are available throughout the city, with some offering free charging while others may charge a fee. Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint can assist with finding charging.
When driving in Manhattan, don’t panic if you hear other drivers using their horns directed at you. A quick “beep” is often just a friendly warning.
New York City experiences all four seasons, with varying weather conditions throughout the year. During the winter months, be prepared for snow and ice on the roads, and consider renting a car with a four-wheel drive for added safety. The city can be hot and humid in the summer, so make sure your rental car has working air conditioning. Fall and spring can bring rain and unpredictable weather, so check the forecast before hitting the road.
Some New York car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend being aware of your coverage when hiring a car in New York.
Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a non-deductible option to your New York car hire.