Welcome to Miami! Renting a car is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings, but knowing about pickup, paperwork, costs, and local traffic rules can help make your trip smoother. In this guide, you’ll find all the important information you need upon arrival at Miami International Airport (MIA).
Most car rental offices are located on or near the airport grounds. Pickup points are usually close to the baggage claim area or accessible by separate shuttle buses. Car rental companies generally available at the airport include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. It’s advisable to find out the exact location in advance before you go.
Miami offers a wide variety of cars to suit different needs. Here are some popular choices:
| Car Class | Daily Price (EUR, approximate) |
| Economy | 30 - 50 |
| Compact | 40 - 60 |
| Mid-Size | 50 - 80 |
| SUV | 70 - 120 |
| Premium/Luxury | 100 - 200+ |
Prices may vary depending on seasonal changes and availability.
To rent a car, you generally need a valid driver's license, identification (passport or driver's license), and a credit card to cover the deposit and costs. In the USA, most car rental companies require a minimum age of 21 to rent, but certain car types (e.g., luxury cars, SUVs) may have a higher age limit. The deposit amount depends on the vehicle type and the rental company's policies.
When renting a car, you can choose from several insurance options. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers collision damage, Theft Protection covers damage from theft or vandalism. Excess Insurance reduces your deductible. It’s advisable to find out about your own insurance coverage before purchasing additional insurance. Ask the rental company which insurance policies are valid in the area.
Miami has frequent highways and toll roads. Most toll roads can be paid for with cash or credit card, but more and more places are offering electronic payment options. Parking in the downtown area can be expensive, so it’s worth looking for parking garages or remote parking lots. Speed limits are usually given in miles, but most car rental companies offer vehicles equipped with GPS that automatically convert the speed to kilometers.
If your driver's license from your country is not in Latin characters, it is advisable to obtain an international driving permit as well.
Most major credit cards are accepted, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
The deposit amount depends on the vehicle type and the rental company's policies, usually ranging between 300-1000 EUR.
Most toll roads can be paid for with cash or credit card. There are also electronic payment options.
Call the police immediately and notify the rental company. Take pictures of the scene and the damage.
The car is usually returned at the rental company's airport office. Make sure you have removed all your personal belongings from the car.
Most rental companies offer unlimited mileage, but it is advisable to check the contract.
Parking in the downtown area can be expensive. It is worth looking for parking garages or remote parking lots.
Most car rental companies offer GPS for rent, or the vehicles already have a built-in navigation system.
Notify the rental company as soon as possible. Your reservation may be automatically canceled if you are late.
Yes, but you usually have to pay a fee for the additional driver.