Ottawa

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Car Rentals

Rental cars are available for exploring Ottawa and the surrounding regions at your own pace.

Sections

1. Major Car Rental Companies in Ottawa

Ottawa has a variety of car rental companies, both international and local, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets. Some of the most popular options include:

  • International Companies:

    • Enterprise Rent-A-Car
    • Hertz
    • Avis
    • Budget
    • National Car Rental
    • Alamo
    • Thrifty
    • Dollar

  • Local Companies:

    • Discount Car and Truck Rentals
    • PractiCar

Locations:
Car rental offices are located throughout the city, including at Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW), downtown Ottawa, and in suburban areas. Renting from the airport is convenient but may include additional fees.

2. Costs of Renting a Car

The cost of renting a car in Ottawa depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, rental duration, time of year, and additional services. Hereโ€™s a general breakdown:

  • Daily Rental Rates:

    • Economy cars: CAD 50โ€“80 per day
    • Mid-size cars: CAD 70โ€“100 per day
    • SUVs: CAD 90โ€“150 per day
    • Luxury vehicles: CAD 150+ per day

  • Additional Costs:

    • Insurance: CAD 20โ€“40 per day (if not covered by your personal insurance or credit card)
    • GPS rental: CAD 10โ€“15 per day
    • Child seats: CAD 10โ€“15 per day
    • Additional driver fee: CAD 10โ€“20 per day
    • Young driver surcharge (under 25): CAD 15โ€“30 per day
    • Taxes and fees: Typically 13% HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) plus other local fees

  • Discounts:
    Booking in advance, using membership programs (e.g., AAA, CAA), or renting for a week or longer can reduce costs.

3. Necessary Documents

To rent a car in Ottawa, youโ€™ll need the following:

  • Driverโ€™s License:
    A valid driverโ€™s license is required. If your license is not in English or French, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your original license.

  • Credit Card:
    Most rental companies require a major credit card for the security deposit. Debit cards are not always accepted.

  • Proof of Insurance (Optional):
    If you have personal auto insurance or credit card coverage, bring proof to avoid purchasing additional insurance from the rental company.

  • Age Verification:
    You must meet the minimum age requirement (see below).

4. The Rental Process

  1. Reservation:

    • Book online or by phone in advance to secure the best rates and vehicle availability.
    • Specify any additional services (e.g., GPS, child seats).

  2. Pick-Up:

    • Arrive at the rental location with your documents.
    • Inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and ensure it is noted in the rental agreement.

  3. During the Rental Period:

    • Follow the rental companyโ€™s policies regarding mileage limits, fuel, and vehicle use.
    • Keep the car clean and avoid smoking inside, as cleaning fees may apply.

  4. Return:

    • Return the car on time to avoid late fees.
    • Refill the gas tank if required (check your rental agreement for fuel policies).

5. Insurance Requirements

Car rental companies in Ottawa typically offer the following insurance options:

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW):
    Covers damage to the rental car. Costs CAD 20โ€“30 per day.

  • Liability Insurance:
    Covers damage to other vehicles or property. This is mandatory in Ontario and usually included in the rental price.

  • Personal Accident Insurance:
    Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers. Costs CAD 5โ€“10 per day.

  • Loss Damage Waiver (LDW):
    Protects against theft or vandalism. Costs CAD 10โ€“20 per day.

Tip:
Check if your personal auto insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.

6. Age Restrictions

  • Minimum Age:
    Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge.

  • Maximum Age:
    There is no maximum age limit, but some companies may have restrictions for drivers over 70. Check with the rental company in advance.

7. Local Driving Regulations

Driving in Ottawa is straightforward, but here are some key regulations to keep in mind:

  • Speed Limits:

    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • School zones: 30โ€“40 km/h
    • Highways: 80โ€“100 km/h

  • Seat Belts:
    Mandatory for all passengers.

  • Cell Phone Use:
    Hands-free devices are allowed, but using a handheld phone while driving is illegal.

  • Alcohol and Cannabis:
    The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, but Ontario has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 22 or with a G1/G2 license. Driving under the influence of cannabis is also prohibited.

  • Right Turns on Red:
    Permitted unless a sign indicates otherwise.

  • Winter Driving:
    If visiting in winter (Novemberโ€“March), ensure your rental car has winter tires, as they are highly recommended for icy roads.

8. Parking in Ottawa

Parking in Ottawa can vary depending on the area:

  • Downtown Parking:

    • Street parking: CAD 3โ€“4 per hour (free after 6 PM and on Sundays in some areas).
    • Parking garages: CAD 15โ€“25 per day.

  • Residential Areas:

    • Some areas require a permit for street parking. Check signage carefully to avoid fines.

  • Attractions:

    • Many tourist attractions, such as Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History, have paid parking lots nearby.

Tip:
Use parking apps like "Parkedin" or "PayByPhone" to find and pay for parking.

9. Specific Considerations for Driving in Ottawa

  • Bilingual Signage:
    Ottawa is a bilingual city, so road signs are in both English and French.

  • Traffic Patterns:
    Traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7โ€“9 AM and 4โ€“6 PM). Plan your trips accordingly.

  • Bridges to Gatineau:
    Ottawa is located on the border with Quebec. If you plan to drive to Gatineau, be aware that Quebecโ€™s driving laws and road signs may differ slightly.

  • Scenic Drives:
    Consider driving along the Ottawa River Parkway or visiting nearby attractions like Gatineau Park, which is especially beautiful in the fall.

10. Tips for Tourists and New Residents

  • Plan Ahead:
    Book your rental car early, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and fall).

  • Use GPS or Maps:
    Ottawaโ€™s road network can be confusing for newcomers. Use a GPS or a navigation app like Google Maps.

  • Fuel Costs:
    Gas prices in Ottawa typically range from CAD 1.50โ€“1.80 per liter. Most rental cars require regular unleaded fuel.

  • Explore Beyond the City:
    A rental car is ideal for visiting nearby attractions like the Rideau Canal, the Thousand Islands, or Mont Tremblant.

  • Emergency Numbers:
    In case of an accident, call 911 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to rent a car and navigate Ottawa with ease. Enjoy your trip or new life in Canadaโ€™s capital city!