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Fort Smith has a regional airport (FSM) where rental car counters are located inside the terminal, making pickup convenient for air travelers. City rental locations are also available for those arriving by other means.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Smith Regional Airport (FSM) |
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| City Locations |
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Available Rental Companies at FSM: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National
On average, car rentals in Fort Smith cost around $62 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $42 per day.
Compare airport vs city pick-ups. FSM counters add ~10 % in concession fees. If you can grab an Uber or hotel shuttle downtown, a city branch can beat airport rates—just watch for shorter business hours.
Match booking timing to the season. For summer and holiday weekends inventory is thin, so lock something in early. Visiting December-February? Prices dip and cars sit idle, so last-minute deals often pop up.
Skip the big ride unless you need it. Fort Smith roads are smooth and parking is free almost everywhere. A compact or midsize sedan usually does the job and costs less in rental price and fuel.
Aim for weekday pick-up and drop-off. Many city locations close Sunday and charge after-hours fees at the airport. Shifting your rental by a day can dodge those extras.
Fort Smith offers plenty of places to park throughout the city, making it easy to explore by car.
Where to Park:
Fort Smith National Historic Site: Dedicated lot for visitors
Shopping Areas: Free spots at malls and shopping centers
Local Driving Rules:
Toll Roads: There are currently no toll roads in Arkansas, including the Fort Smith area.
A rental car unlocks historic sites and wide-open nature across western Arkansas and nearby Oklahoma.
Fort Smith National Historic Site – courthouse, gallows
Lake Fort Smith State Park – boating, picnic areas
Mount Magazine State Park – trails, lodge
Ozark National Forest – Pig Trail Byway, waterfalls

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Fort Smith? If your license is in English, you usually don't need an International Driving Permit. Just bring your valid foreign driver's license and your passport. If your license isn't in English, we strongly suggest you get an IDP or a certified translation.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring Fort Smith? A standard sedan will work well for city driving and visiting most area attractions. You should consider an SUV if you plan to explore rural areas or travel in winter.
Is it difficult to drive in Fort Smith for international visitors? No, Fort Smith is a small city that has pretty light traffic. You'll find the roads are well-marked, so getting around is easy. Remember to drive on the right side of the road.
Where can I find the cheapest gas prices in Fort Smith? Gas stations near Walmart or Sam's Club usually have lower prices. You can also use apps like GasBuddy to find the best deals right now.
Can I drive my rental car into Oklahoma? Yes, all major rental companies let you drive into neighboring states without any problems. Oklahoma is just across the river from Fort Smith.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Fort Smith? Most companies require you to be at least 21 years old, and they add a fee for drivers under 25. Some companies may rent to drivers as young as 20 for an extra charge.