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Finding a car rental in Ocala is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of suppliers in Florida with no booking fees. Pick up a car downtown or at nearby Gainesville Regional Airport and cruise to Silver Springs, horse country and the Ocala National Forest. Book early for equestrian events to lock in low prices before the limited local fleets sell out.
Ocala has limited rental options and no commercial airport directly in the city.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Ocala | • No airport fees • Convenient for city stays • Local service |
• Limited hours (often 8 am–6 pm) • Smaller selection • Limited weekend hours |
| Ocala International Airport | • Located in Ocala • General aviation facility |
• Very limited rental options • Services only private aircraft • Not for commercial airline passengers |
| Gainesville Regional Airport | • Nearest commercial airport • Multiple rental companies • Reliable service |
• 38 miles (61 km) from Ocala (45 min drive) • Limited flight options • Smaller rental fleets |
| Orlando International Airport | • Multiple rental companies • Extended hours • Largest vehicle selection |
• 80 miles (129 km) from Ocala (1.5 hour drive) • Airport surcharges • Transportation needed if arriving by air |
On average, car rentals in Ocala cost around $66 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.
Compare pick-up points: Downtown Ocala often beats airport counters because you skip airside surcharges; Gainesville Airport can be a sweet spot if you land there. Run quotes for all three before booking.
Avoid equestrian-event weeks: Ocala's HITS Winter Circuit sends prices sky-high. Shifting your rental by a couple of days outside the event window can slash the rate.
Target the slow, steamy summer: June–August is hot but cheap. If you can handle the humidity you'll score the lowest seasonal rates.
Check weekly pricing even for short trips: A 7-day rental in Ocala can cost the same or less than 4–5 days, so compare both options.
Limit drivers and keep them 25+: Extra and under-25 driver fees run $10–30 a day. Stick to one qualified adult whenever possible.
Refuel off-site: Skip prepaid fuel and fill up at one of the cheaper gas stations on SR-40 before returning the car to dodge inflated per-gallon charges.
Finding a Spot in Ocala:
Local Driving Rules:
Traffic Enforcement:
Get a rental car to visit:
Silver Springs State Park – springs, boat tours
Ocala National Forest – trails, lakes
Rainbow Springs State Park – tubing, waterfalls
Horse farms and equestrian venues – tours, events
Do I need an International Driving Permit in Ocala, Florida?
If your driver's license isn't in English, you will need an International Driving Permit and your original license. Rental companies usually accept licenses in English without an IDP.
What documents are required to rent a car in Ocala?
You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name and proof of insurance (or you can buy insurance from the rental company). If you're visiting from another country, you should also bring your passport and an IDP if you need one.
Is a credit card required for car rental in Ocala?
Yes, most rental companies will ask you for a credit card to cover the security deposit. Some places might take a debit card, but they often have extra rules and will hold a larger amount of money from your account.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring Ocala and the surrounding areas?
A standard car works well for most attractions. If you plan to explore deep in the forest or visit faraway springs, you might want to get an SUV so you have more room underneath the car. You can reach most major springs and recreation areas in a standard car.
Are there any special considerations when driving in Ocala National Forest?
When you drive in Ocala National Forest, you should fill your gas tank before you go in because there aren't many gas stations. You should also bring water and bug spray and know that your cell service might not work well. The forest roads are mostly in good shape, but some aren't paved.
What should I do if I encounter severe weather while driving?
In a heavy thunderstorm, you should slow down, turn on your headlights and if you can't see well, pull over to a safe spot. Turn on your hazard lights until the weather gets better. If there is a hurricane warning, try to return your rental car early.
How far is Ocala from the nearest major airport with rental cars?
Gainesville Regional Airport is about 38 miles (61 km) from Ocala, which is a 45-minute drive. Orlando International Airport is about 80 miles (129 km) away, or a 1.5-hour drive, and it has the most car rental choices.
Are there horse farms I can visit while in Ocala?
Yes, people call Ocala the "Horse Capital of the World." Some farms will give you a tour if you make an appointment. The Ocala Visitor Center can tell you which farms welcome visitors. You will definitely need a rental car to visit these farms since they are often far apart.
Is it necessary to have a car in Ocala?
Yes, we strongly suggest that you have a car when visiting Ocala. There is very little public transportation, and many attractions, springs and natural areas are spread out. There are no shuttle services to get to them.
Are electric vehicle charging stations available in Ocala?
Ocala has a few charging stations. You can usually find them at shopping centers, hotels and some public buildings. More are being built, but there aren't many yet. If you rent an electric car, you should plan ahead for where you will charge it.
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