EN
No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Finding a car rental in Reno is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers across Nevada with no reservation fees. Whether you need a car right at Reno-Tahoe International Airport or prefer a cheaper downtown pickup, our search brings you live rates and clear inclusions. Filter for snow-ready SUVs for Lake Tahoe or compact cars for casino hopping and lock in your ride with free cancellation on most deals.
Reno offers several car rental options, at the airport and in the city.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Reno-Tahoe Airport (RNO) |
|
|
| Downtown Reno |
|
|
Airport Rental Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National and Thrifty. All have counters inside the terminal in the baggage claim area.
City-Based Options: Several neighborhood branches across Reno, including multiple Enterprise locations, Hertz, Avis and Budget offices.
On average, car rentals in Reno cost around $71 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $22 per day.
Skip the airport premium: Downtown Reno branches can be 10-15 % cheaper because they dodge the airport concession fee. Even after a $15-$20 rideshare from RNO, you often come out ahead.
Time your trip around events: Prices skyrocket for Burning Man, ski-season weekends and Hot August Nights. If you must travel then, lock in months early. Traveling in May, October or November? Relax—rates are usually lower and stock plentiful.
Play with pickup/return days: Mid-week pickups and Monday or Tuesday returns avoid weekend surcharges and the Sunday-afternoon counter crush. A quick date shuffle in the search box can shave real dollars.
Look at weekly pricing: Staying 5+ days? Weekly rates in Reno often beat a string of daily charges, even if you hand the keys back early.
Reno Parking:
Lake Tahoe Parking:
Local Driving Rules:
Winter Driving Regulations:
Get a car so you can easily:
Lake Tahoe – beaches, ski resorts, vistas
Virginia City – boardwalks, mining museums
Pyramid Lake – tufa formations, tribal lands
Carson City – Nevada State Museum, capitol grounds
Do I need a 4WD or AWD vehicle in the winter?
You don't need a 4WD or AWD vehicle in Reno, but we highly recommend one if you plan to visit Lake Tahoe or other mountain areas in the winter. These vehicles give you better grip in the snow and you can drive through some winter weather without chains.
Are there any toll roads in the Reno area?
No, Nevada does not have any toll roads. You can drive anywhere in the state and you won't need to worry about tolls or toll passes.
What should I do if I encounter a chain control checkpoint?
If your 4WD/AWD vehicle has the right tires (M+S rated), you can usually drive through R-1 and R-2 control points. If you drive a 2WD vehicle, you might have to turn around or put on chains, but most rental companies don't allow chains. You should always check road conditions before you drive in the winter.
How far in advance should I book a rental car for Burning Man?
You should book at least 3–4 months early if you're renting for Burning Man (in late August). All the rental cars get booked up and prices go up a lot. Also know that many rental companies will charge you a cleaning fee (up to $350) if you bring the car back covered in playa dust.
Can I take a rental car to ski resorts in the winter?
Yes, but you should be ready for winter driving. Most rental cars have all-season tires, not special snow tires. You should check weather forecasts and road conditions before you leave and try to avoid driving during a snowstorm.
What happens if roads close due to snow while I have a rental car?
Officials might temporarily close mountain roads like Mt. Rose Highway or parts of I-80 during heavy snowstorms. You should have a flexible schedule and a backup plan if you travel in the winter. Road crews usually clear the roads within a few hours after a storm passes.
Is it possible to rent a car in Reno and return it in Las Vegas?
Yes, most major rental companies let you do one-way rentals between Reno and Las Vegas. You should expect to pay a one-way drop fee. The fee can be $100 to $300 and it changes based on the company and which cars they need.
How does the elevation in Reno affect driving?
Reno is at about 4,500 feet elevation, which usually doesn't affect your driving. However, when you drive on mountain passes to Lake Tahoe, you'll climb to around 8,900 feet (Mt. Rose Summit). Up there, your car's engine might feel a little weaker and you should be ready for the weather to change quickly.
Popular Countries
24/7 Support