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Explore Washington D.C. with Ease

Travel from New York to Washington D.C. conveniently with our car rental service.

Can I rent a car from New York to Washington D.C.?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from New York to Washington D.C.. 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 1-2 year(s).
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-20 will incur a fee of US$ 84.00 per day, and those aged 21-24 will incur a fee of US$ 25.00-35.00 per day.
  • 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 1-2 year(s). 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 South Korea Driving License (English version) (An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.)
    • Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (Driver's Licenses printed in Roman alphabet such as English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc., are acceptable for car rental without the need for an IDP. Driver's licenses printed in a non-Roman alphabet must be accompanied by an IDP.)
    • Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English (Your English translation should be authorized by the embassy.)

    Notes: Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Supported card attributes include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 18 and 99. Young drivers aged 18-20 will incur a fee of US$ 84.00 per day, and those aged 21-24 will incur a fee of US$ 25.00-35.00 per day.
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How much does renting a car from New York to Washington D.C. 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$ 59/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 64/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 81-US$ 495US$ 0-US$ 399US$ 177-US$ 433Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 93-US$ 193US$ 0-US$ 100US$ 206-US$ 327Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 82-US$ 518US$ 0-US$ 399US$ 181-US$ 471Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 80-US$ 283US$ 0-US$ 399US$ 192-US$ 1,036Large groups, long drivers
VanUS$ 553US$ 399US$ 447Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 518-US$ 523US$ 399US$ 353-US$ 368Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand One-Way Fees: Be aware of the additional charges that may apply for returning the car to a different location.
  • Check Cross-Border Restrictions: Ensure your rental company allows cross-state travel and verify any restrictions that may apply.
  • Plan Rental Duration: Schedule your rental period appropriately to avoid excessive rental fees or unnecessary returns.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy, such as full-to-full or prepaid, and comply to avoid additional charges.
  • Vehicle Options: Choose the right vehicle category for your trip's comfort and luggage capacity needs.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early for Better Deals: Reserve your vehicle in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
  • Plan Your Route in Advance: Map your journey beforehand to identify key stops and alternate routes.
  • Pack Appropriately: Ensure your luggage can fit within the space available in your selected vehicle type.
  • Consider Insurance Options: Review and understand rental insurance coverage options to avoid unforeseen costs.
  • Car Drop-Off Inspection: Inspect the vehicle upon drop-off for mutual acknowledgement of its condition, avoiding disputes later.
  • Allow Extra Travel Time: Account for potential traffic or delays to ensure timely vehicle drop-off.
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 to the agreed fuel level before returning it to avoid extra charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Use local gas stations near the drop-off location to minimize costs.

Fuel Cost

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

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control when possible.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to improve mileage.

Avoid heavy acceleration and excessive idling.

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New York Parking

Street parking is limited and often metered; check for restrictions.

Parking garages are available but can be expensive, averaging $20-$50 per day.

Consider using public transport to reach the rental location to avoid parking fees.

Washington D.C. Parking

Street parking is available but limited; pay attention to time limits and restrictions.

Parking garages near downtown average $15-$25 per day.

Use parking apps to reserve spots in advance for convenience.

Recommended Parking Apps

SpotHero

ParkWhiz

Parking Panda

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Driving Routes from New York to Washington D.C.:
I-95 via Philadelphia
Highway Route 3h 45m

This is the most direct route and takes travelers through Philadelphia, known for its historical landmarks and vibrant culinary scene.

Philadelphia , Baltimore
US-1 Coastal Route
Scenic Route 4h 15m

Offers a more scenic drive by the coast, bypassing the major highways and providing various seaside points of interest.

Jersey Shore , Chesapeake Bay
I-78 and I-81 Internal Route
Rural Route 4h 30m

Enjoy a less-traveled path through scenic rural areas, showcasing beautiful landscapes and charming small towns.

Harrisburg , Frederick
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the right vehicle: Ensure your rental car matches your route needs, whether for city driving, comfort, or off-road capabilities.

Understand rental costs: Be aware of additional fees for one-way rentals and consider fuel-efficient cars to save on gas expenses.

Prepare route navigation: Carry a GPS or download offline maps to stay on track, especially in areas with limited mobile signal.

Plan your stops: Identify rest stops and dining options along the route to ensure a comfortable journey.

Refuel wisely: Research gas station locations along your route to avoid running low on fuel in remote areas.

Drive safely: Follow traffic laws, resist the urge to speed, and always have emergency supplies on hand.

Choosing the Best Car Rental Company for Your Journey

Selecting a suitable car rental company for a New York to Washington D.C. one-way trip involves evaluating pricing, fleet options, and coverage settings.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$$HighExtensive Diverse vehicle fleet , High location availability , Flexible booking options
Enterprise$$MediumExtensive Good customer service , Competitive pricing , Wide presence in urban locations
Avis$$HighExtensive Premium vehicle options , Quick rental process , Convenient app features
Budget$MediumModerate Affordable pricing , Economy vehicles availability , User-friendly booking process
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

Details About Car Rental Centers Along Your Route

Location of Car Rental Centers:

Find car rental centers at major transportation hubs in New York and Washington D.C., such as airports and downtown stations.

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers operate from 8 AM to 10 PM, with some facilities offering around-the-clock services.

Shuttle Services:

Complimentary shuttles connect airports to rental centers, ensuring convenient access for travelers.

Pro Tips for John F. Kennedy Intl Airport(JFK) Car Rentals

Check online reviews and book your vehicle ahead to avoid peak-hour rush.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to rent a car for this route?

Drivers typically need a valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter’s name, and proof of insurance. International travelers might require an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Are there any additional costs for one-way car rentals?

Yes, one-way rentals generally include a drop-off fee, which varies depending on the rental company and locations involved. This fee covers the cost of returning the vehicle to its original location.

How long does it take to drive from New York to Washington D.C.?

The driving distance is approximately 225 miles, which takes about 4-5 hours depending on traffic and the specific route chosen.

Can I choose from different types of vehicles for my rental?

Yes, rental companies usually offer a variety of vehicle categories for this route, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. Availability might depend on the rental location.

What are the fuel policies for one-way rentals?

Most companies require renters to return the car with the same fuel level as when it was picked up. Some companies also offer pre-paid fuel options.

Ready to Book Your New York to Washington D.C. Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes