Last Updated on January 31, 2025 by Kristin

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Did you know that rental car requirements and policies can vary by state? Renting a car is an ideal way to explore Florida’s theme parks, beach towns and culture-packed cities. Want to get the lowest price and avoid hassles during the check-in process? Here’s what you need to know about car rentals in Florida.

Minimum Age to Rent a Car in Florida

Major Car Rental Companies: The minimum age to rent a car in Florida at major rental companies is 21. This is the same as in most other states. However, most rental car companies will charge a “young renter” fee for drivers aged between 21 and 24. Hertz will rent cars to drivers as young as 20 in Florida. To avoid the young renter fee, consider joining AAA.

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Other Options: Car sharing platform Turo requires U.S. drivers to be at least 18 to book a trip, with one big exception. Drivers must be at least 21 to book a vehicle with a market value of more than $20,000. Young drivers under 21 also have to pay a young renter fee starting at $50 per day. That fee is at least $30 per day for ages 21-24. Also, drivers 21 and under must buy a Turo protection plan.

What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Florida?

Driver’s License: You must have a hard copy of a valid driver’s license to rent a vehicle in Florida or any U.S. state. Major rental car companies generally do not accept digital licenses. Florida does not recognize licenses with statements such as “Not for Federal Identification” or “Driving Privilege Only,” which are typically issued in Delaware or Connecticut.

Credit or Debit Card: You will also need a valid credit or debit card. This is to cover the estimated cost of the rental car booking, and any deposit the rental company charges. The deposit amount depends on the rental car company, location and type of vehicle. Keep in mind that renting with a debit card may have some restrictions — you may be asked to provide an additional form of identification or a return plane ticket if renting at an airport. Some rental locations may not allow debit cards at the start of a reservation.

Good Driving Record: Rental car companies may verify your driving record at their discretion. Drivers with a history of drunk or reckless driving or multiple accidents should consider this before renting in any state.

Florida Car Rental Insurance Laws

Liability Insurance: Florida is a “no-fault state” for auto insurance, which means that vehicles registered in the state must have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance and Property Damage Liability (PDL) of at least $10,000 each.

Unless otherwise stated, the rental car company’s liability and personal injury protection coverage is considered primary under Florida law. When in doubt, confirm with the rental car company in advance to understand which liability insurance is covered under your rental and whether you need to purchase any additional coverage.

State Taxes and Fees for Rental Cars

Florida Rental Car Surcharge: Florida imposes a $2-per-day surcharge on car rentals for the first 30 days of the reservation, in addition to other fees the rental car company or airport may charge. 

Florida Airport Rentals

Rental car companies often add separate charges at airports that can significantly raise the bill. 

Concession Recovery Fee: This charge equals 11.11% of your bill at facilities including airports, which helps cover the rental car company’s fees.

Customer Facility Fee: Some airport rental locations charge fees that go toward taking care of the rental car facility, which varies depending on the airport. Orlando’s fee recently rose significantly.

  • Miami International Airport (MIA): $5.10 per day
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): $9 per day
  • Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood Airport (FLL): $3.95 per day
  • Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW): $5 per day

Toll Roads in Florida

Florida Toll Locations: Florida is known for its pricey toll roads connecting main tourist destinations, which often require drivers pay electronically. Cities including Miami, Orlando, and Tampa have toll roads, and the Florida Turnpike charges fees.

How to Pay Tolls: While the rental car company may offer you the option of using their transponder, plan to pay anywhere between $4 and $13 per day for that convenience. The easiest and cheapest way to pay for tolls is by using the temporary Visitor Toll Pass, which renters at Orlando International Airport (MCO) can use when renting an airport.

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Renting from another Florida airport? It is worth it to buy your own toll pass such as the SunPass or E-ZPass to save on the extra daily fees the rental car company charges for offering you their own.

Florida does offer a feature called TOLL-BY-PLATE feature that sends drivers a bill for the toll in the mail, be warned — the rental company will tack on a hefty administrative fee along with the actual toll charge.

Understanding Florida’s rules about insurance, tolls and driving requirements before picking up your vehicle can help ensure you have a hassle-free rental process in Florida.

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