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Car Rental at Tampa International Airport, Florida USA

If you're looking for car rental in Tampa International Airport, look no further. We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology, with a choice of hire vehicles right across the range, from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give our customers the opportunity to reduce their CO2 emissions.

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is a dynamic and sun-soaked city known for its beaches, sports, Cuban culture, and family-friendly attractions like Busch Gardens and the Florida Aquarium. It’s also the perfect starting point for road trips across Central and Southwest Florida, offering easy access to cities like Orlando, Sarasota, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg.

Tips for renting a car in Tampa FL

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Car rental at Tampa International Airport – Good to know about driving there

 

Driving in Tampa is much like driving elsewhere in the United States. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and speed limits are posted in miles per hour (mph). Roads are generally in excellent condition, with multi-lane freeways, good signage, and efficient layouts. If you're arriving at Tampa International Airport (TPA), rental car pick-up is quick and direct via the airport’s Rental Car Center.

Speed limits in the Tampa area are typically:

25–35 mph in residential and urban areas

45–55 mph on larger city roads and boulevards

65–70 mph on highways and interstates like I-275 and I-75

Florida’s traffic enforcement includes speed cameras, highway patrol, and red-light cameras, particularly in school zones and intersections. Always obey traffic signals, stop fully at red lights and stop signs, and use seatbelts — they are mandatory for all passengers.

Right turns on red lights are allowed after a complete stop, unless posted otherwise. Distracted driving laws are enforced, meaning mobile phone use while driving (especially texting) can result in fines.

Fuel stations are frequent and self-service, with 24-hour locations available in most neighborhoods and along highways. Payment by credit/debit card is standard, but some pumps require ZIP code validation, which may be problematic for international visitors. You can pay inside the station if needed.

Parking is easy in most areas, especially outside of downtown. In the city center and tourist spots like Ybor City or Channel District, you'll find metered street parking, public garages, and valet options. Avoid parking in spaces marked with "No Parking," "Tow Away Zone," or yellow-painted curbs, as towing is enforced.

Tampa has a generally calm and courteous driving culture, but rush hours (especially 7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM) can cause delays on major highways. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so drive cautiously during heavy rain and avoid flooded streets.

Useful Information about renting a car at Tampa International Airport

Where to collect your car?

Upon arrival at Tampa International Airport, please follow the signs to the Rental Car Center. You will be guided to the Mover Train that will take you from the main terminal to the Rental Center. Once there, please follow the sign to the Off-Airport Rental Cars area located on floor 1, by taking the elevator. Please find the bus stop and look for our shuttle labeled with the Green Motion sign. You will have a short ride to our office located next to the airport. If any assistance is required, please call (877) 342-0999.

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

US Dollar (USD)

Nearest Gas Station

Chevron: Located on Kennedy Boulevard, just off the Hwy 60 exit from I-275, or BP: Also situated on Kennedy Boulevard near the airport

Nearest Train Station

The closest Amtrak station to Tampa International Airport is Tampa Union Station, located at 601 North Nebraska Avenue, approximately 8.5 miles from the airport.

Nearest Bus Station

Tampa International Airport is well-connected to the city and surrounding areas through various bus services! All public buses depart from the Rental Car Center, which is connected to the Main Terminal via the SkyConnect train.

Average temperatures

13°C (55°F) - 32°C (90°F)

Car hire in Tampa Florida – FAQs about renting a car

Do I need a car in Tampa Florida?

Yes. Renting a car is highly recommended anywhere in the USA.

Is it easy to drive in Tampa for first-time visitors?

Yes. Roads are wide, well-marked, and traffic is moderate. GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze are very helpful for navigation and traffic updates.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the USA?

If your driver’s license is written in the Roman alphabet (e.g., English, Spanish, German), it’s accepted. Otherwise, an IDP is recommended alongside your license.

Can I turn right on red in Florida?

Yes, unless a sign prohibits it. Make a full stop first and yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

Are toll roads used in and around Tampa?

Yes — some highways use electronic tolls (like Selmon Expressway and Veterans Expressway). Most rental cars come with a SunPass transponder, and tolls will be billed to your rental agreement.

Is parking easy in the Tampa Bay area?

Yes. Parking is generally abundant and affordable, especially outside downtown. In busier districts, use garages or pay stations.

Is it safe to drive at night in Tampa?

Yes. Roads are well-lit, and city streets are active in the evening. Still, as in any city, stay alert in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.