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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Road Genius makes it easy to find great car rental offers in Lakeland, Florida. Compare prices and make bookings in one place. Simple. We scan real time deals from Lakeland Linder Airport plus the larger fleets at Tampa and Orlando airports, giving you a wide choice of vehicles and low rates for your central Florida road trip.
Lakeland has limited rental options in the city itself, so most travelers rent from nearby major airports.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lakeland Linder Airport (LAL) | • Convenient if staying in Lakeland • Less crowded than major airports |
• Limited rental companies (mainly Avis/Budget) • Irregular hours (open only during flight arrivals) • Smaller vehicle selection |
| Tampa International Airport (TPA) | • Multiple rental companies • Extended hours (some 24/7) • Larger fleet selection • Competitive rates |
• 40-55 miles (64-89 km) from Lakeland • Airport surcharges add to base rate |
| Orlando International Airport (MCO) | • Extensive vehicle options • Extended hours • Competitive pricing |
• 40-55 miles (64-89 km) from Lakeland • Airport fees increase total cost |
| Lakeland City Center | • No airport fees • Local service |
• Limited hours (usually close 5-6pm) • Smaller inventory • No after-hours pickup |
On average, car rentals in Lakeland cost around $82 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $27 per day.
Check both airports and downtown: Tampa (TPA) and Orlando (MCO) often post lower base prices than tiny Lakeland counters even after airport fees. Run a quick comparison before locking in a pickup spot 40-50 miles (64-80 km) away.
Aim for shoulder or fall months: April-May and Sep-Nov usually show the cheapest rates around central Florida, and you can book just a few weeks out instead of months.
Watch for price drops: Lakeland demand swings fast. Reserve a cancel-free deal, then re-search weekly and rebook if the total cost slides.
Return during business hours: Lakeland city desks and LAL close early. Dropping after hours can rack up extra "convenience" fees, wiping out the savings you chased.
Finding a Spot in Lakeland:
Local Driving Rules:
Traffic Enforcement:
Get a car rental to see:
Legoland Florida – Winter Haven
Bok Tower Gardens – Lake Wales
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Lakeland? Florida law lets visitors drive using a valid driver's license from their home country, even if it's not in English. Still, it's a very good idea to have an International Driving Permit. Rental companies sometimes require it because it provides an official English translation of your license.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Lakeland? You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name and proof of your own insurance if you decide not to use the rental company's coverage. If you are visiting from another country, you should also bring your passport and International Driving Permit if you have one.
Is a credit card required to rent a car? Yes, most companies require a credit card for the security deposit. Some places might accept debit cards, but they often have extra rules, like asking for your return flight plans or another form of ID. They might also ask for a larger deposit.
What is the typical security deposit amount? The security deposit is usually about $200 plus the cost of the rental. The company will hold this amount on your credit card until you return the car.
Are there any special considerations for winter visitors? Winter (January to March) is our busiest season, so rental prices are higher and fewer cars are available. You should book your car far ahead of time if you're visiting then, especially if you need a certain kind of car.
Can I drive my rental to other cities or states? Most rental companies in Florida give you unlimited mileage and let you drive throughout Florida and to nearby states. You should always check your rental agreement to see if there are any rules against it.
What should I do if I accidentally drive through a toll without paying? Don't stop or try to back up at a toll booth. If you drive through an electronic toll without a toll pass, the system bills the rental company. The rental company will then charge you for the toll, plus a service fee that is often $10 to $15 each time.
How do parking meters work in Lakeland? Most parking in downtown Lakeland is free, but you can only park for a certain amount of time. In areas that have parking meters, you can usually pay using coins or credit cards. Some meters also let you pay through a mobile app.
What should I do in case of a breakdown? You should call the rental company's roadside assistance number. You can find it on your rental agreement or key tag. Make sure you pull safely off the road and turn on your hazard lights while you wait for help.
Are there electric vehicle charging stations in Lakeland? Lakeland has a few public charging stations. If you rent an electric vehicle (EV), you should plan your trips and charging stops carefully. You can use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to help you.
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