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Downtown Miami offers several rental options, each offering distinct advantages depending on your travel needs.
| Location | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Miami International Airport (MIA) |
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| Downtown Miami Locations |
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| Hotel-Based Rental Desks |
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| Port of Miami |
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Transportation Tip: If arriving at Miami International Airport but not renting a car, consider taking the Metrorail Orange Line directly to downtown (approximately $2.25 per person) instead of a taxi (approximately $35) or rideshare service.
On average, car rentals in Miami Downtown cost around $62 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $12 per day.
Compare pickup spots: Downtown desks skip the ~11 % airport concession fee. Hop on the MIA Orange Line for $2.25, pick up the car downtown, and you're already ahead of the game.
Book smart by season: For winter and Spring Break crowds lock in 2-3 months early. In hurricane season (Sep-Oct) prices dive, so stay flexible and pounce on last-minute deals instead.
Play with dates & lengths: On our site slide the rental forward or back a day or switch to a 7-day quote—weekly rates often beat five separate daily ones in Miami.
Re-shop after reserving: Make a free-cancellation booking, then check back each week; Miami prices can drop when fleets expand or storms scare others off.
Skip pricey add-ons: Buy gas away from the airport/tourist strips and return full, decline pre-paid fuel, and bring your own USB cable/phone holder instead of paying gadget fees.
Handle tolls yourself: Grab a $5 SunPass at a pharmacy and pay actual tolls only, avoiding the per-day "program" fees most rental counters tack on.
Where to Park:
| Location | Cost | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Miami Street Parking | Varies | Mobile payment via PayByPhone app; limited availability |
| Downtown Miami Garages | Varies | Rates vary by garage and time of day; more secure option |
| Bayside Marketplace | Varies | Shopping validation available; popular tourist area |
| Brickell City Centre | Varies | Upscale shopping center and many dining options |
| South Beach | Varies | Limited street spaces; garage options near Lincoln Road |
| Wynwood | Varies | Street and lot options available; busier on weekends |
| Coconut Grove | Varies | Several garages available; CocoWalk validates |
| Hotel Valet Parking | High | Convenient but expensive; in out privileges at most hotels |
Key Driving Regulations:
Toll Road Overview:
| Toll Road | Coverage | Payment Options |
|---|---|---|
| SR-836 (Dolphin Expressway) | East West through Miami | SunPass or Toll By Plate |
| SR-112 (Airport Expressway) | Downtown to MIA | SunPass or Toll By Plate |
| SR-874 (Don Shula Expressway) | Southwest Miami to Homestead | SunPass or Toll By Plate |
| Florida's Turnpike | North South through Miami | SunPass or Toll By Plate |
| I-95 Express Lanes | Variable rate express lanes | SunPass only |
| Rickenbacker Causeway | Mainland to Key Biscayne | Cash or SunPass |
Toll Payment Options:
Local Tip: Downtown Miami has numerous one-way streets and complicated turn restrictions. GPS navigation is highly recommended for visitors unfamiliar with the area.
Get a rental to get to:
South Beach – beaches, nightlife
Key Biscayne – parks, lighthouse
Wynwood Arts District – murals, galleries
Everglades National Park – wildlife, airboat tours
Florida Keys (Key Largo, Key West) – Overseas Highway
Fort Lauderdale – beaches, shopping

What documents do I need to rent a car in Miami?
You'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card. If you're visiting from another country, you also need your passport and an English-language license or an International Driving Permit.
How do I handle Miami's electronic toll roads?
Most Miami toll roads are cashless. Your rental company will likely include a toll program that charges your credit card plus a service fee. Another option is to buy a SunPass Mini transponder for about $4.99 from a local pharmacy or grocery store.
Is it worth renting a car if I'm staying mainly in South Beach?
If you're staying only in South Beach, you might not need a car. You can walk around the area easily and it has good public transportation. But a car is helpful if you want to explore beyond Miami Beach, like the Everglades or the Keys.
Where can I park overnight in Downtown Miami?
Most hotels offer valet parking for around $30-45 per night. You can also find public garages that offer overnight rates from $15-25. Street parking is hard to find and often has overnight restrictions.
What's the best way to avoid traffic?
You can use navigation apps with live traffic updates, avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM) and consider using the Metrorail for some downtown places during peak times.
Are there age restrictions for renting a car?
Most companies require you to be at least 21 years old. Some will rent to drivers who are 20. If you are under 25, expect to pay a young-driver fee of about $25-30 per day.
Can I take a rental car to the Florida Keys?
Yes, most rental companies let you drive to the Keys. The drive to Key West takes about 3.5-4 hours and is one of the most scenic road trips in America.
What should I do if I get a parking ticket?
You should pay the ticket right away, either online or by mail. If you don't pay, the rental company can add extra fees. They may also charge you an administrative fee for handling the ticket.