Houston
๐
Car Rentals
Renting a car is a common and convenient way to get around Houston, especially given the city's car-centric culture.
Sections
1. Available Rental Companies
Houston has a wide range of car rental companies, both international and local. These companies operate at major locations such as airports, downtown, and other key areas. Some of the most popular options include:
Major Rental Companies:
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Multiple locations across Houston, including George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
- Hertz: Available at airports and various city locations.
- Avis: Offers a wide range of vehicles, including luxury and SUVs.
- Budget: Known for affordable rates and convenient locations.
- Alamo: Popular for family-friendly options and unlimited mileage.
- National Car Rental: Offers premium services and loyalty programs.
- Thrifty: Budget-friendly options for travelers.
- Dollar Rent A Car: Affordable and convenient for short-term rentals.
Local and Specialty Companies:
- Turo: A peer-to-peer car-sharing service where you can rent directly from car owners.
- Silvercar by Audi: Specializes in luxury Audi vehicles.
- Fox Rent A Car: Known for competitive pricing.
2. Costs
The cost of renting a car in Houston depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, rental duration, and time of year. Below is a general breakdown:
Average Costs:
- Economy Cars: $30โ$50 per day
- Mid-Size Cars: $40โ$60 per day
- SUVs: $60โ$100 per day
- Luxury Cars: $100โ$200+ per day
- Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available, with economy cars starting at $200โ$300 per week.
Additional Costs:
- Taxes and Fees: Expect to pay an additional 10โ20% in taxes and surcharges.
- Insurance: $10โ$30 per day, depending on the coverage.
- Young Driver Fee: Drivers under 25 may incur an extra fee of $20โ$30 per day.
- Extras: GPS, child seats, and additional drivers may cost $5โ$15 per day each.
3. Rental Procedures
Renting a car in Houston is straightforward, but youโll need to meet certain requirements and follow specific steps:
Requirements:
- Age: Most companies require renters to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
- Driverโs License: A valid driverโs license is mandatory. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country license.
- Credit Card: A major credit card is typically required for the deposit. Some companies accept debit cards but may impose stricter conditions.
- Insurance: Proof of insurance may be required. If you donโt have coverage, you can purchase it from the rental company.
Steps to Rent:
- Book Online: Reserve your car in advance through the rental companyโs website or a third-party platform like Expedia or Kayak.
- Pick Up the Car: Bring your driverโs license, credit card, and reservation details to the rental location.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Check for any pre-existing damage and report it to the rental agent.
- Sign the Agreement: Review the terms and conditions before signing.
- Return the Car: Return the vehicle on time to avoid late fees. Ensure the gas tank is filled if required by the rental agreement.
4. Insurance Requirements
Insurance is a critical aspect of renting a car in Houston. Hereโs what you need to know:
Types of Insurance:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental car. Costs $10โ$30 per day.
- Liability Insurance: Covers damage to other vehicles or property. Often included in the rental price but check the limits.
- Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers. Costs $5โ$15 per day.
- Personal Effects Coverage: Protects your belongings in the car. Costs $2โ$10 per day.
Tips:
- Check if your personal auto insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid paying for duplicate insurance.
- International visitors should confirm whether their travel insurance includes rental car coverage.
5. Traffic Considerations
Houston is a sprawling city with heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Rush Hours:
- Morning: 7:00 AMโ9:00 AM
- Evening: 4:30 PMโ6:30 PM
- Major highways like I-45, I-10, and I-610 can become congested during these times.
Toll Roads:
- Houston has several toll roads, including the Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8) and the Hardy Toll Road.
- Most tolls are cashless, so youโll need a toll tag (e.g., EZ TAG) or pay through the rental company, which may charge an additional fee.
Parking:
- Downtown Houston has metered parking, garages, and lots. Rates range from $2โ$10 per hour.
- Free parking is available in suburban areas and some shopping centers.
6. Local Driving Laws
Familiarize yourself with Texas driving laws to ensure a safe and legal experience:
- Speed Limits: Typically 30 mph in residential areas, 55โ75 mph on highways.
- Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Cell Phone Use: Texting while driving is prohibited. Hands-free devices are recommended.
- Right on Red: Permitted unless otherwise posted.
- Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%. Avoid drinking and driving entirely.
7. Recommendations for Renting a Car in Houston
- Book Early: Prices can increase during peak travel seasons, so reserve your car in advance.
- Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for an economy car if youโre staying in the city or an SUV if you plan to explore rural areas or nearby attractions.
- Inspect the Car: Take photos of the vehicle before driving off to document any pre-existing damage.
- Plan for Tolls: If youโll be using toll roads, ask the rental company about their toll payment options.
- Use GPS: Houstonโs road network can be confusing for newcomers. Use a GPS or smartphone app like Google Maps or Waze.
- Be Patient: Traffic can be frustrating, so allow extra time for travel, especially during rush hours.
8. Nearby Attractions to Explore by Car
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore beyond Houstonโs city limits. Consider visiting:
- NASA Johnson Space Center: About 25 miles southeast of downtown.
- Galveston Island: A beach destination 50 miles south of Houston.
- San Antonio: A 3-hour drive west, home to the Alamo and River Walk.
- Austin: A 2.5-hour drive northwest, known for its music scene and outdoor activities.
By following this guide, youโll be well-prepared to rent a car and navigate Houston with ease. Safe travels!