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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Compare car rental prices from leading providers in Raleigh, North Carolina with Road Genius. From small economy cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Pick up your ride at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, downtown Raleigh or neighborhood depots and benefit from pay-at-pickup flexibility and free cancellation on most bookings.
Raleigh offers several convenient car rental locations, each offering different advantages and considerations:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) |
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| Downtown Raleigh |
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| Suburban Locations |
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RDU Airport Rental Process: After collecting your baggage, follow signs for "Rental Car Shuttles" to Zone 4 (Terminal 1) or Zone 5 (Terminal 2). Free green shuttles run frequently, taking around 7-10 minutes to reach the consolidated rental car center located about 3 miles (5 km) from the terminals.
On average, car rentals in Raleigh cost around $61 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $23 per day.
Compare pickup spots: RDU Airport adds 10-15 % in surcharges. Downtown or suburban branches often cancel those fees, so run a quick search for each location before locking in.
Book then stalk the price: Raleigh rates swing—winter (Jan-Feb) can be 40-50 % cheaper than peak April. Grab a free-cancellation deal about 4 weeks out and re-quote it every week; rebook if the number drops.
Shift your calendar: Mid-week pickups and returns in Raleigh are usually cheaper than Friday–Sunday. Moving your rental by a day can shave serious dollars.
Mind the Triangle Expressway (NC-540): If you won't be heading to the far suburbs, skip this toll road to avoid the rental company's admin fees on top of the toll.
Use Raleigh's parking perks: Downtown street meters are free after 6 pm and all day Sunday. A smaller car not only costs less to rent but also fits those free curb spots, saving garage fees.
Refuel smart: Top off within 5–10 miles (8–16 km) of the return center—airport pumps are priced like designer coffee and the rental company's "convenience" refill is worse.
Downtown Raleigh Parking:
| Parking Type | Rates | Hours | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| City-owned Decks | Hourly and daily rates vary | Vary by deck | Free short-term parking may be offered in some decks |
| Street Meters | Hourly rates vary | Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm | Free after 6pm weekdays and all day Sunday Use Passport mobile app for payment |
| Surface Lots | Flat rates vary | Varies by lot | Some offer evening or weekend flat rates for events |
| Hotel Parking | Overnight rates vary | 24 hours | Valet options often available |
Parking Tips:
Traffic Rules & Regulations:
Toll Roads: The Triangle Expressway (NC-540) is Raleigh's primary toll road and uses cashless electronic tolling. Cameras will capture your license plate and bill you by mail if you don't have a transponder. Rental companies may add administrative fees, so ask about toll policies when picking up your vehicle.
Get a car so you can easily:
Durham – Duke University, Duke Gardens
Chapel Hill – UNC campus, Franklin Street, Morehead Planetarium
Wilmington beaches – Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – beaches, boat ramps
Blue Ridge Mountains – Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking trails
Outer Banks – lighthouses, sand dunes
Do I need a special license to rent a car in Raleigh?
Usually, a valid driver's license from your home country is all you need. If your license isn't in English, we recommend getting an International Driving Permit, but North Carolina law does not require it.
How old must I be to rent a car in Raleigh?
You usually need to be 21 to rent a car. Drivers under 25 will have to pay a young driver fee of about $25 per day. To rent some specialty cars, you might have to be 25 or older.
What documents do I need to pick up my rental car?
You'll need a valid driver's license, a major credit card in your name and your booking confirmation. Visitors from other countries should also bring their passport.
Are there any toll roads around Raleigh?
Yes, the Triangle Expressway (NC-540) is the main toll road in the area. It uses all-electronic tolling, so there are no cash booths. Be sure to ask your rental company about their toll policy and fees.
What is the best time to rent a car in Raleigh to avoid high prices?
You can find the lowest rates in January and February, outside of holidays. The prices are about 40-50% lower than during the peak season in April.
Do rental cars come with GPS navigation?
Most rental cars have Bluetooth so you can connect your phone for navigation. You can rent a separate GPS unit for about $10-15 per day, but it's often cheaper to use your smartphone.
What are the speed limits in and around Raleigh?
Usually, the speed limit is 35 mph in city areas, 55 mph on two-lane rural roads and 65-70 mph on highways and interstates. You should always watch for posted signs, as the limits can change.
Is parking difficult to find in downtown Raleigh?
Downtown Raleigh has plenty of parking in garages and on the street, though it can get busy during major events. Most street parking is free after 6 p.m. on weekdays and all day Sunday.
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