Car Rental for Foreign Visitors in NYC
Visiting from abroad? Here's exactly what you need to rent in New York.
- Compare 500+ trusted suppliers
- Free cancellation on most bookings
- No hidden fees · 24/7 multilingual support
Foreign visitors can rent a car in New York with relative ease. Most suppliers accept a valid foreign driver's license, and the main things to get right are language, an International Driving Permit when needed, and a card for the deposit.
Your foreign license and the IDP
Most companies accept a current foreign driver's license as long as it's readable. If your license isn't in English, carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it. Some countries' licenses are routinely accepted; when in doubt, an IDP avoids problems at the counter.
What else to bring
Bring your passport and a credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit. If you're under 25, the young-driver fee still applies. Have your return travel details handy in case the counter asks.
FAQs
Yes — most suppliers accept a valid, current foreign license. If it isn't in English, bring an International Driving Permit with it. You'll also need a passport and a card for the deposit.
Not always, but it's strongly recommended if your license isn't in English. An IDP is inexpensive and prevents counter issues — bring it together with your home license.