EN
No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Compare rental car prices from top companies in Birmingham, Alabama with Road Genius. From compact cars to luxury SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. Pick up at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport for quick walk-up access or choose downtown and suburban branches to avoid the airport surcharge. Book early for summer trips and football weekends when demand jumps and the cheapest cars go first.
Birmingham offers several locations to pick up your rental car, each offering different advantages:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) | • On-site rental counters on ground level of parking deck • No shuttle needed – walk directly to vehicles • Larger selection of vehicles • Open until midnight (most counters) • Staffed to match flight schedules |
• Airport surcharges (10–15% higher rates) • Can be busy after large flight arrivals |
| Downtown Birmingham | • Lower rates (no airport fees, save ~$100/week) • Convenient if already staying downtown |
• Limited business hours (usually 8 AM–5 PM weekdays) • Smaller vehicle selection • May require rideshare to reach from airport |
| Suburban locations (Homewood, Vestavia) | • Potentially lower rates • Good for those staying in suburbs |
• Restricted hours • Limited inventory • Transportation needed to reach location |
Airport Pickup Notes:
Transport to Off-Airport Rentals:
On average, car rentals in Birmingham cost around $65 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $32 per day.
Skip the airport markup: Grab a rideshare ($15-25) to a downtown Birmingham branch and dodge the 10-15 % airport surcharge, often saving about $100 a week.
Time it right for peak events: Summer and college-football weekends sell out fast. Lock in a deal 2-3 weeks ahead for those dates only; last-minute can still work in quieter months.
Check weekly pricing even for short trips: In Birmingham a 4-day rental can cost more than the 7-day rate, so always run both quotes.
Weekday pickups are cheaper: Rates usually dip Monday-Thursday. If your schedule is flexible, shifting your start date can shave off extra bucks.
Where to Park:
| Location | Type | Cost | Time Limits | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Birmingham | Street parking | Metered rates | Metered weekdays 8AM-6PM | Free evenings and Sundays |
| Downtown garages | Parking decks | Varies by garage | Varies | Some offer free periods for short stays |
| Shopping districts | Surface lots | Often free or low cost | Sometimes 2-hour limits | More abundant in suburbs |
| Airport parking | Parking deck | Daily rate applies | No limit | For reference; you will likely return rental |
| Popular attractions | Dedicated lots | Event pricing may apply | Event-dependent | Rates may change during special events |
Local Driving Rules:
Speed limits:
Traffic Patterns:
Get a car rental so you can see:
Vulcan Park and Museum – Southside
Birmingham Botanical Gardens – Mountain Brook
Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum – Leeds
Oak Mountain State Park – Pelham
Is it easy to drive in Birmingham as an international visitor?
Yes, Birmingham has well-marked roads and drivers are generally courteous. The highway system can be tricky near downtown, but a navigation app will help you find your way. Remember to drive on the right side.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
Alabama lets tourists drive with a valid license from their home country. However, if your license is not in English, you should get an International Driving Permit (IDP) to use as a translation.
Are there any toll roads in Birmingham?
No, Birmingham does not have toll roads. You can drive throughout the metro area without paying tolls.
What's the minimum age to rent a car?
Most rental companies require you to be 21 years old. They will charge drivers between 21 and 24 an extra "young driver fee" of about $25–$30 per day. For some specialty vehicles, you may have to be 25 or older.
How does parking work downtown?
On weekdays from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, you need to pay for street parking at about $1 per hour. Parking is free in the evenings and on Sundays. If you need to park longer, you can use a parking deck, and some give you the first two hours free.
What should I do if stopped by police?
Stay in your car, roll down your window and keep your hands visible on the steering wheel. Have your license, rental agreement and proof of insurance ready to show the officer.
Is it difficult to find parking at attractions?
Most attractions have their own parking lots or garages. You may need to pay for parking at downtown venues, but attractions in the suburbs often have free parking lots.
Popular Countries
24/7 Support