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Apex offers both in-town rental options and easy access to a wider selection at RDU Airport.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Apex Local Offices | • Often lower rates (no airport fees) • Less crowded • Enterprise offers free pickup service • Hertz location on Laura Duncan Rd. • Enterprise location on E. Williams St. |
• Limited vehicle selection • Restricted hours (generally 8AM-6PM weekdays, limited weekend hours) • No after-hours pickup • May sell out during busy periods |
| RDU Airport | • Larger fleet and more vehicle options • Extended hours (some counters open until midnight) • More rental companies to choose from • No need for separate transportation |
• Approximately 18% more expensive due to airport fees • Additional customer facility charges • Can be busier and have longer wait times |
On average, car rentals in Apex cost around $76 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $29 per day.
Shop local vs RDU Airport City counters in Apex skip airport surcharges and average about 18% cheaper. A quick rideshare from RDU can still leave you ahead.
Tweak pick-up time Prices jump when everyone wants a car (Mon AM & Fri PM). Shifting to mid-day Tuesday or Wednesday often pulls up lower rates and shorter lines.
Check weekly pricing even for 5-6 days A flat 7-day rate can beat paying per day. Always run both options in the comparison tool before you click "reserve".
Lock in, then stalk the price Grab a free-cancellation deal early, especially for summer or holiday weeks, and re-check every week. If the rate drops, cancel and rebook in 30 seconds.
Skip the Triangle Expressway tolls Set your nav to "avoid tolls" and use I-40 or US-1. You'll save the daily toll program fee plus about $4-6 per trip.
Refuel smart Top off at Sheetz, Costco or other stations on US-1 / NC-55—usually 20¢-30¢/gal less than highway pumps—so you can return the tank full and dodge refueling charges.
Where You Can Park:
Local Driving Rules:
Toll Road Notes:
Get a rental car to visit:
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – trails, boating, picnic areas
Downtown Raleigh – museums, NC State Capitol, dining
Durham – Duke University, American Tobacco Campus
Chapel Hill – UNC campus, Franklin Street

What documents do I need to rent a car in Apex?
You will need a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. Some companies also accept a debit card. If you choose not to buy the rental company's insurance, they may ask for proof of your own car insurance. You don't need this if you buy their insurance. International visitors should bring their passport and an International Driving Permit if their license isn't in English.
Can I pick up a rental car in Apex and return it at RDU Airport?
Yes. You can usually rent a car one-way between Apex and RDU. Since they are in the same metro area, companies often don't charge an extra fee, but their policies can be different. Enterprise and Hertz both let you do this, so it's a good idea to check and book your car early.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Apex?
Most rental companies need you to be at least 21 years old. If you're under 25, they will charge a "young driver" fee, which is often about $20–$30 per day. You may need to be 25 or older to rent some specialty or luxury cars.
Is it worth paying for additional insurance when renting in Apex?
That depends on the insurance you already have. Your own credit card or car insurance policy might already cover rental cars. If you don't have coverage, you can buy the Collision Damage Waiver or Loss Damage Waiver from the rental company. This can give you peace of mind by lowering or getting rid of the amount you'd have to pay for damage to the car.
How do I handle tolls in the Triangle area if I'm in a rental car?
You have three options: 1) Use the rental company's toll program, where they charge a daily fee on top of the tolls, 2) Bring your own transponder if it works with NC Quick Pass (E-ZPass is now accepted) or 3) Pay by mail after they bill the car's license plate, but rental companies usually add a service fee for this option.
Are there any scenic drives near Apex worth taking?
Yes. You can take a pleasant drive along the shoreline of Jordan Lake, about 15 minutes from Apex. For longer trips, you could drive NC-751 through Durham County past Falls Lake or go to Uwharrie National Forest, which is roughly 90 minutes away. Both places provide excellent scenery, hiking and picnic opportunities.