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Explore the Scenic Drive from Fort Lauderdale to Key West

Enjoy a one-way car rental adventure on the Overseas Highway

Can I rent a car from Fort Lauderdale to Key West?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Fort Lauderdale to Key West. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Documents required for US residents
Documents required for international visitors
  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit card types include UnionPay, Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is 20-99 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Please note that an IDP is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
    • Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English. Please note that your English translation should be authorized by the embassy.
    • Original South Korea Driving License (English version). An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit card types include UnionPay, Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is 20-99 years. Young drivers aged 20-24 may incur an additional fee of US$ 25.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from Fort Lauderdale to Key West cost?

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

US$ 39/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 40/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 39-US$ 543US$ 0-US$ 119US$ 116-US$ 1,684Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 40US$ 0US$ 119Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 40-US$ 84US$ 0US$ 119-US$ 251Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 41-US$ 100US$ 0US$ 119-US$ 298Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 59-US$ 543US$ 0-US$ 100US$ 172-US$ 1,728Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 91-US$ 543US$ 0US$ 276-US$ 1,728Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 50-US$ 543US$ 0US$ 126-US$ 1,728Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Rental Fee: Check if there are any additional fees for dropping off the car at a different location.
  • Mileage Limit: Confirm if the rental includes unlimited mileage for the drive to avoid unexpected extra charges.
  • Drop-Off Location: Ensure the rental company's policy allows one-way rentals to Key West and confirm the exact drop-off spot.
  • Refueling Requirements: Understand the fuel policy, especially if a specific tank level is required upon return.
  • Booking in Advance: Reserve your vehicle early to secure availability and potentially better rates for the specific route.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan Fuel Stops: Research fuel stations along the Overseas Highway to avoid any inconvenience due to limited gas options.
  • Check Traffic and Weather: Monitor traffic forecasts and weather conditions to pick an ideal time for your journey.
  • Pack Light: Ensure you pack lightly as most compact rentals might have limited luggage space.
  • Prepare for Scenic Stops: Schedule time for impromptu stops along the highway to enjoy scenic views and recreational sites.
  • Know the Road Rules: Review Florida's driving laws and any specific rules for the Overseas Highway route.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Refuel Policy Basic

Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges from the rental company.

Keep the last receipt as proof of refueling.

Use gas stations near the drop-off location to ensure the tank is full upon return.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel cost along the route is approximately $3.50 per gallon.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden accelerations.

Check your tire pressure before starting the trip.

Limit the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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Fort Lauderdale Parking

Parking costs in Fort Lauderdale range from $2 to $5 per hour.

Street parking is available but may have time restrictions.

Consider using parking garages for long-term parking.

Key West Parking

Parking in Key West can be limited and expensive, averaging $4 per hour.

Look for municipal parking lots for more affordable rates.

Avoid parking in residential areas without a permit.

Recommended Parking Apps

Use apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero to find and reserve parking spots in advance.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Fort Lauderdale to Key West:
Overseas Highway (US-1)
Scenic Route 4 hours

Travel through the iconic Florida Keys over countless bridges surrounded by blue waters.

Key Largo , Islamorada , Seven Mile Bridge
Old Dixie Highway Alternative
Quieter Option 4.5 hours

An alternative to US-1, offering a quieter and more relaxed drive through residential areas.

Homestead , Tavernier
Florida Turnpike to US-1
Fastest Route 3.5 hours

A quicker route if time is limited, bypassing outdoor detours to reach Key West efficiently.

Florida City
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Vehicle Selection: Choose a comfortable vehicle, considering fuel economy for a longer drive.

Budget Travel: Watch out for toll roads and plan additionally for fuel costs.

Route Planning: Familiarize yourself with the road conditions and stops along the Overseas Highway.

Fuel Stops: Check for service stations in advance since options become limited in the Keys.

Weather Considerations: Pack and plan according to the tropical climate, ensuring safety and comfort.

Insurance Coverage: Consider rental insurance and verify your policy for a one-way trip.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Below is a comprehensive guide to selecting a car rental company for a one-way trip from Fort Lauderdale to Key West.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$Wide variety, includes SUVs and convertiblesExtensive throughout Florida Convenient pick-up locations , Reputable customer service , Flexible rental policies
Enterprise$$$Diverse selection including luxury modelsBroad coverage across states Excellent roadside assistance , Multiple payment options , High customer satisfaction ratings
Avis$$Solid range, includes compact and electric vehiclesHigh availability within Florida Affordable prices , Frequent customer loyalty programs , High on-time pickup record
Budget$$Good range of fuel-efficient carsModerate coverage Low mileage cars , Simple booking process , Affordable insurance options
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Fort Lauderdale Airport Rental Car Center

Operating Hours:

Open 24/7 for convenient pick-ups and drop-offs.

Location:

Located adjacent to Terminal 1 at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Shuttle Availability:

Complimentary and frequent shuttles are available from all other terminals.

Payment Options:

Accepts major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

Pro Tips for Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) Car Rentals

Book your rental in advance to secure the best deals and vehicle availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of a one-way car rental for the Fort Lauderdale to Key West route?

One-way car rentals offer a flexible and convenient travel option for getting from Fort Lauderdale to Key West. You can pick up the car in Fort Lauderdale and drop it off in Key West, saving time and effort compared to returning to the starting location. This is an ideal choice for travelers who want to explore other locations or prefer a different mode of transport on the return.

Are there any extra fees for one-way car rentals?

Yes, one-way rentals often include a surcharge, known as a drop-off fee, to account for repositioning the vehicle. The fee can vary based on the rental company, car category, and location of the drop-off. It is recommended to compare options and inquire with the rental company about these fees before booking.

What documents are required to rent a car for this route?

You will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name for the deposit, and a booking confirmation. International travelers may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their passport.

Are there specific car rental companies that support this route?

Many major car rental companies, like Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, and Avis, offer one-way rentals from Fort Lauderdale to Key West. It is advisable to check with individual providers regarding availability and specific terms for this service.

Can I choose my preferred car type for the rental?

Yes, when renting a car, you can usually select the type of vehicle based on availability and your needs. Options may include compact cars, sedans, SUVs, or convertibles, with each having different pricing and features. It's best to book early to secure your preferred vehicle, especially during peak travel seasons.

Ready to Book Your Fort Lauderdale to Key West Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes