Car Rentals in Downtown Washington D.C., USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Downtown Washington D.C.

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Downtown Washington D.C. car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

Renting a car in Downtown Washington D.C. offers you the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Smithsonian American Art Museum, located right in Downtown, or the iconic White House, which is less than 1 km away. The National Mall, a national park ideal for outdoor adventures, is also a short drive at 1 km from Downtown. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families, allowing you to manage luggage easily and adapt your travel plans as needed. Furthermore, you can venture beyond Downtown to nearby areas like Arlington, just 4 km away, where you can enjoy the Washington Golf and Country Club, or explore the vibrant Penn Quarter, less than 1 km from Downtown. With a rental car, you have the convenience to fully immerse yourself in the city-themed experiences, outdoor scenery, and cultural attractions that Washington D.C. has to offer, ensuring a memorable trip tailored to your interests.

Most popular car hires in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

  • Midsize: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families looking to explore Downtown Washington D.C. at their leisure. The midsize option strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, ensuring that you have ample room for both passengers and luggage while navigating the city.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the economy car accommodates 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is not only budget-friendly but also allows for easy manoeuvrability in the bustling streets of Downtown Washington D.C. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring the area while keeping your travel costs low.
  • Fullsize: Ideal for families or groups, the fullsize car can accommodate 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious option provides the comfort needed for longer journeys and allows for easy luggage management, making it a suitable choice for those planning to visit various attractions in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

  • Avis: Avis is a popular choice among travellers in Downtown Washington D.C., featuring 3 rental locations in the area. Known for its excellent range of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, providing ample space and comfort for your adventures. Renting from Avis allows you the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace, making it a convenient option for those managing luggage and itineraries.
  • Budget: Budget is another fantastic supplier with 2 rental locations in Downtown Washington D.C. Offering competitive rates, Budget is known for its Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are popular choices among renters. This supplier is ideal for those seeking value without compromising on quality, making it easy to enjoy your trip while saving on transportation costs.
  • Hertz: With 2 rental locations in Downtown Washington D.C., Hertz is a well-regarded option for car hire. Travellers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which provide comfort and practicality for your journey. Hertz is recognised for its reliable service and diverse fleet, ensuring you have the right vehicle to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of the area.

Where to stay around Downtown Washington D.C.

  • Downtown Washington D.C.: As the heart of the metropolis, Downtown Washington D.C. offers a vibrant mix of cultural and historical experiences. Notable attractions such as the iconic White House and the expansive National Mall are within close reach. Visitors can enjoy educational opportunities at the Smithsonian Institution and explore urban parks for outdoor activities. The area is also home to numerous shopping centres and dining options, making it ideal for both family and city-themed trips.
  • Arlington: Located just 4 km from Downtown, Arlington is a lively city that caters to both families and business travellers. Renowned for its shopping centres and educational venues, it also features historic sites and urban parks. Highlights include the Washington Golf and Country Club for leisure activities and easy access to the National Mall and White House for culture enthusiasts. Arlington's selection of wineries and sweet treats adds to the local charm.
  • Northwest: Situated 5 km away, Northwest is a family-friendly neighbourhood that combines outdoor activities with cultural exploration. The area offers access to significant landmarks such as the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, perfect for those interested in history and art. With nearby urban parks and various shopping options, Northwest is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a blend of leisure and cultural experiences.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be justified by the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should any unforeseen circumstances arise during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Washington D.C.

The best value period for renting a car in Downtown Washington D.C. is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is also low. February follows closely with average prices and low demand, making it another good option. Moving into the spring, April and May see average prices with moderate demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, experiencing high demand as well. August also remains busy with average prices but increased demand, making it a peak time for rentals.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly High
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly Low
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Downtown Washington D.C.?
Within the past seven days in Downtown Washington D.C, you could have taken off in a hired car for as low as a day.
What happens if I need to cancel my Downtown Washington D.C. Car reservation?
You should get your money back on your car hire if you let us know a minimum of six hours ahead of pick-up. Scan the rental agreement for the finer details. Our Customer Service Portal may have what you need too.
What types of cars can I rent in Downtown Washington D.C.?
Take the wheel of a compact vehicle in Downtown Washington D.C. And you'll be in great company. The most booked type of hire car, these rides are easy on the purse strings, good on fuel and a breeze to park. With a compact car, you'll easily navigate bustling city streets. Of course, you can always think big. Check out our range of larger hire categories including mid-size, full-size and premium. However you want to roll, we'll have your perfect ride.
Where can I go on a road trip from Downtown Washington D.C.?
When you've covered all the well-known attractions in Downtown Washington D.C, there's a lot more to discover in the surrounding area. Grab the keys to a hire car, toss your bags in the trunk and get going. We've pulled together some road trips we think you'll enjoy:

  • Head off to Baltimore for an excellent sightseeing adventure. Approximately 35 miles from Downtown Washington D.C, it has lots of inspiring attractions like National Aquarium in Baltimore.
  • Why not check out all that's on offer in Philadelphia too? Top sights in this buzzing city include Liberty Bell Centre. Philadelphia is around 120 miles from Downtown Washington D.C..
  • Visit First Landing State Park to reconnect with nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just chill out in the fresh air. From Downtown Washington D.C, it's approximately 150 miles away.

How do I find the best car hire deals in Downtown Washington D.C. With Expedia?
Whatever sort of wheels you're searching for, Expedia will help you nab the best deal. Simply compare offers from well-known hire providers and pick the option that's right for you. Love to drive away with even more in your wallet? Combine your Downtown Washington D.C. Car hire with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Downtown Washington D.C.?
Anyone with a valid driver's license 21 and above can hire a vehicle in Downtown Washington D.C.. While some providers may be willing to accommodate drivers younger than 21, you can expect additional fees. Find out what ages the young driver surcharge applies to, and associated costs, before booking your ride. Outlets also restrict the categories of cars young drivers can rent. Higher age limits apply for luxury and specialty vehicles.
What do you need to hire a car in Downtown Washington D.C.?
While terms and conditions can differ between car hire outlets in Downtown Washington D.C, the basics are a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. You don't need to take out auto insurance with your rental provider. However, proof of alternative coverage may be necessary.
What is the cheapest car rental in Downtown Washington D.C.?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a car rental in Downtown Washington D.C. Was . The next lowest was per day. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Downtown Washington D.C.?
Visit our long-term car hire deals page, enter your trip information and then lock in a ride that suits. Whether you're staying put in Downtown Washington D.C. Or venturing beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term hire at a fantastic rate.
Where can I find a Downtown Washington D.C. Hire car if I am younger than 25?
Some Downtown Washington D.C. Companies will rent cars to drivers under 25, and others won't. Age policies differ between suppliers, so you should do your homework. Also, find out if there are additional costs. Some places will have a surcharge for young drivers between 21 and 24. Be sure to read through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
Can I drive in Downtown Washington D.C. With my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in the United States, then you may need to organise an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before hiring a car. If you find that an IDP is required, be aware that you'll also have to show your current driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, the credit card you used to hire the vehicle must match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car hire. Other things you should know about hired a car in the U.S. Are:

  • Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or older in most states to be able to hire a car, although in some areas, 21 years and older is allowed. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as with the company you're hiring from before your trip to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before you slide behind the wheel so you can avoid any unnecessary charges. When hiring a car in the U.S, it's usually prohibited to cross country borders into Canada or Mexico, use car ferries or go off-roading with a hire car. We recommend reading all the rules and regulations before booking!

Why should I rent a Downtown Washington D.C. Car with Expedia?
Expedia is the ideal place to book a set of wheels. With multiple suppliers in Downtown Washington D.C. To select from, we search high and low to get you incredible deals. Save with our member prices and exclusive offers, and earn rewards with each booking you make. You'll save even more when you bundle your bookings into a Downtown Washington D.C. Holiday package. Hire cars, hotels, flights, activities — Expedia has everything you need in one place. Plus, when you become a member of our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and spend it on eligible hotels, car rentals, activities and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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