Car Rental Miami, FL: What You Should Know

Are you planning to rent a car during your next visit to Miami, but you don’t know where to start? It can be tricky to find a car rental service that caters to your travel preferences and budget since there are so many options to consider. You have to compare rental costs, determine whether you’ll buy insurance, and budget for fuel during your search.

With its breathtaking views and skyline, Miami is the perfect travel destination at any season of the year. Public transportation in Miami won’t let you enjoy the convenience and privacy that a rental car brings. It will also cost you more to explore the city, especially if you are an adventurous person.

The rules of the car rental game keep changing in Miami since the city attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year. Use this car rental guide as you are planning to rent a car in Miami for your trip to be worthwhile:

Understand the Car Rental Business in Miami

Though there are many car rental brands operating in Miami, only three major companies hold a large stake in this industry. Each company has different brands in the low, middle, and high pricing tiers. They are always ready to cater to your car rental needs, whether you want a low-budget compact vehicle or a luxurious SUV.

Factors such as convenience and quality of service can help you determine whether a car rental company is worth your money. While choosing a household name in the industry may be tempting, their services may not match your expectations. Always look at their fees, pickup and return policies and reservation process before booking the car.

Browse through NHTSA’s (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) listings for recall information on motor vehicles. The site will give you insights on car models that don’t comply with federal safety standards or suffer a safety-related defect.

Compare Car Rental Prices Online

A handful of websites give detailed insights on rental car rates. They also allow you to narrow down your search to a particular brand and the locations they serve. Most of these sites use price comparison software to help you rank rates across different companies and explore the perks that come with their services.

Check online for car rental price drops as you’re planning to visit Miami. Some sites also send you alerts regarding the prices as email or PC notifications.

Consider Off-Airport Car Rental Services

Since it’s pretty expensive to rent a car in Miami airport terminal, consider looking beyond the airport. Car rental Miami airport services are usually flooded with requests and bookings and tend to charge high fees. They may also make you wait in a queue for long periods before getting the rental car.

Visit a car rental near Miami airport for a cheaper and convenient deal. However, you should prepare to spend some cash on a taxi ride to the rental location.

Renting a vehicle at a less popular airport nearby may also help you find a cheaper deal. That’s because most large international airport terminals get a high demand for rental cars.

Auto dealerships can also help you get a car rental that meets your budget and travel needs. Either way, always check the company’s reviews on platforms like Google My Business and Yelp before accepting their offer.

Ensure that the Company Meets Miami’s Car Rental Laws

Check the Miami-Dade County Website for a list of regulations and Florida road rules that you and the rental car providers should meet. One of the regulations prohibits companies from placing a sign or bumper sticker that identifies their car as a rental. Furthermore, they have to ensure that the fuel tanks are half-full before renting you the vehicle.

The rental car should have crash-tested safety devices for children aged five and below if you’re planning to bring your child to the trip. They should give you a detailed quotation of their rental services and respective costs. It’s also mandatory for them to provide you with a map together with safety travel tips that abide by Miami-Dade County standards.

Fight for a Price Reduction if You’re Under 25

Most rental car agencies in Miami charge higher fees to drivers below the age of 25 since they consider them high-risk drivers. Some companies allow you to plead with them for a price drop since there isn’t any law that requires them to charge high fees.

It’s also common to encounter rental providers that have harsh penalties for drivers under 25. Provided you have a legal driver’s license, you have a right to be treated as an eligible driver and be charged car rental fees like other drivers, regardless of your age.

Reserve the Rental Car Early

Since Miami gets flooded with visitors throughout the year, booking a rental car in advance will save you the trouble of finding one at the last minute. Book the vehicle as soon as you determine that you’ll need it during your trip to the city.

Make your reservation at least one month before the travel date if you’re planning to visit Miami during a busy holiday season. Only transact with rental agencies that allow you to cancel the booking without incurring a surcharge if you change your mind.

Explore the Rental Car Insurance Options

The rental car agent will lay out several insurance offerings before handing you the vehicle. These policies cover personal effects, personal accidents, collision damage, and liability.

Check whether your credit card, health insurance, or auto insurance offers any of these benefits before signing up for them. Make decisions on the car insurance policy days before booking the vehicle to avoid spending on benefits you already have.

Rent a Car in Miami Today

With a rental car, you’ll enjoy the convenience and privacy of driving in Miami. It is also more cost-effective to rent a car in Miami than use ride-sharing services if you plan to stay in the city for several days.

Count on us for competitive rates, a well-maintained fleet, and zero hidden charges when looking for a rental car provider in Miami or Orlando. Our staff will drive the vehicle to your preferred location as soon as you need it. We invite you to seek an upfront quote on our rental car services today.