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Need help with your car rental? Phone: 1888-269-6248
Need help with your car rental?
Phone: 1888-269-6248

Crossing the U.S. Border in a Rental Car

Crossing the U.S. borders banner

Cross-country road trips are quite popular in the United States because it shares international land borders with Canada and Mexico. If you have your own vehicle, then it is quite easy to cross the borders as long as you provide all the proper documents. However, there are some people who prefer renting a car when going on a cross-country adventure in America. This option requires major planning because of the restrictions, but it is definitely worth it.

Can I cross the Canadian border with a rental car?

Yes. Most rental car companies in the USA, including Budget, Dollar and Hertz, allow their vehicles to cross the Canadian border, but make sure to inform your provider in advance and read their terms and conditions carefully. Once everything's settled, you now have to prepare all the documents you need for your cross-country road trip.

For more information, read our guide on Driving Across the U.S. Border Into Canada.

Can I cross the Mexican border with a rental car?

Yes, you can drive a rental car from the United States into Mexico, but you must pay for a Mexican Automobile Liability Insurance which is only available in specific U.S. states such as Arizona, Texas and California. Some car rental companies also allow drivers to take their cars into Mexico if rented in certain states and may charge an extra fee.

For more information, read our guide on Driving Across the U.S. Border into Mexico.

Important

Before you drive your rental car across the U.S. border…

It is best if you would notify the rental staff where you intend to rent a vehicle as some suppliers will provide written authorization. If you are granted permission by the renting location, additional rental qualifications may apply. You will need to have proof of citizenship, the car rental agreement and your driver's license with you when you cross the border.