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Explore With Ease: From New York to Washington D.C.

Your ultimate guide to stress-free one-way car rentals on this iconic route.

Document required for international visitors
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements.

    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 physical United States national photo ID.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Some policies may support XpCard, DcCard, or UnCard.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is between 18 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 25.00-84.00 per day, depending on the specific age and rental policy.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted documents include: 1) Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is only a translation and must be accompanied by the original driving licence); 2) Original South Korea Driving License (English version) with an English translation on the back; 3) Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (e.g., English, French, German, etc.) without the need for an IDP; 4) Original driving licence + Official embassy translation in English (authorized by the embassy).

    Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will be required to present a return airline ticket. 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, MasterCard, Diners Club, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. Some policies may support XpCard, DcCard, or UnCard.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is between 18 and 99 years. Young drivers aged 18-24 may incur additional fees, such as US$ 25.00-84.00 per day, depending on the specific age and rental policy.
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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

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 113-394US$ 0.00-151.75US$ 228-762Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 184-394US$ 0.00-100.00US$ 313-762Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 131-541US$ 0.00-150.00US$ 275-1068Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 129-478US$ 0.00-150.00US$ 276-939Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 228-228US$ 50.58-50.58US$ 574-574Families, comfort seeker

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-Way Fee Awareness: Understand the additional charge sometimes applied for returning the car to a different location.
  • Verify Cross-State Policies: Ensure there are no restrictions or fees for crossing state borders during your trip.
  • Mileage Limits: Check if your rental comes with unlimited mileage or if there are additional fees for excess miles.
  • Rental Duration Flexibility: Verify the rental period and options to extend it in case of changes in plans.
  • Gas Filling Policy: Understand whether you need to return the car with a full tank or if a prepaid fuel option is available.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Your Rental Early: Secure the best rates and vehicle availability by reserving your rental in advance.
  • Check for Promotions: Look into rental discounts, special offers, and loyalty rewards that could lower your costs.
  • Understand the Insurance Options: Review the coverage included and consider additional insurance for peace of mind on the road.
  • Choose a Drop-Off Location Wisely: Consider a drop-off location close to your final destination to save time and transportation costs.
  • Plan Your Route with Stops: Factor in key attractions along your route to make the journey enjoyable and memorable.
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
Tolls
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Exxon - 2300 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, VA 22202, United States

Sunoco - 2643 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037, United States

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to reduce fuel consumption.

Avoid excessive idling to save fuel.

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New York Parking

Reserve parking in advance to secure a spot and potentially save money.

New York parking can be expensive and limited, especially in Manhattan. Consider using parking garages or lots for convenience.

Washington D.C. Parking

Check for parking regulations and time limits to avoid fines.

Washington D.C. offers various parking options including street parking and garages, but availability may vary depending on the area.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can assist in finding and reserving parking spots in advance.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure you have cash or an EZPass for toll payments.

Using an EZPass can expedite toll payment and sometimes offer discounts.

Toll roads may be encountered along the route, such as the New Jersey Turnpike and Delaware's toll roads.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes Between New York and Washington D.C.:
Scenic Hudson Valley Route
Scenic Drive 6 hours

This route takes you through the Hudson Valley, offering breathtaking views of the river, historic landmarks, and charming towns.

Bear Mountain State Park , West Point , Sleepy Hollow
Direct Interstate Route
Highway Route 4 hours

The quickest route via Interstate 95, offering smooth and direct transit between New York and Washington D.C.

Newark , Philadelphia , Baltimore
Blue Ridge Mountain Route
Nature Lover's Route 6.5 hours

This route diverts through the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing scenic mountain views and outdoor activities.

Harpers Ferry , Great Falls Park , Shenandoah Valley
Tips for Planning Your One-Way Trip

Vehicle Selection: Choose a car that suits your travel type, such as a fuel-efficient compact car for city routes or an SUV for countryside trips.

Route Navigation: Plan your stops, and consider using GPS navigation for optimized travel time and pre-locate fuel stations along your route.

Fuel Management: Be aware of fuel refill charges in the rental agreement and fill up the tank before return if required to avoid extra fees.

Cost Optimization: Check for additional fees for one-way drop-off in rental agreements and compare rental packages for best offers.

Safety Precautions: Ensure your rental car is insured and familiarize yourself with emergency roadside assistance contacts provided by the rental company.

Local Traffic Laws: Be informed about local driving regulations and speed limits to avoid penalties.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Introduction to company selection for one-way rentals between New York and Washington D.C., providing insights on fees, coverage, and vehicle variety.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Hertz$$High-quality selection ranging from economy cars to luxury SUVsExtensive network with accessible locations in both New York and Washington D.C. Premium service , Wide range of vehicles , Frequent customer programs
Avis$$Well-maintained fleet including economy, luxury, and hybrid vehiclesModerate with key hubs in metropolitan areas Flexible booking options , Rewards program availability
Enterprise$Standard selection with affordable optionsHigh-level geographic accessibility including urban and suburban areas Affordable pricing , Widely available even in suburban areas
Budget$Economical selection suited for budget-conscious travelersStandard options with services at major city centers Cost-effective booking , Transparency in billing
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

Information About Car Rental Centers

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers in New York and Washington D.C. operate 24/7, but it's recommended to confirm specific timings.

Rental Car Center Locations:

Centrally positioned near airports and city centers for ease of access.

Shuttle Frequency:

Free shuttles to rental garages available at 15 to 30-minute intervals.

Airport Transportation Options:

Connections to airports via dedicated shuttles and public transit options.

Consider booking your vehicle in advance to secure better rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost difference for a one-way rental versus a round trip?

One-way car rentals often include a surcharge called a drop-off fee. This fee compensates for the car being left at a different location than it was picked up. Fees vary by company and location, generally ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars.

Do I need special insurance for a one-way rental from New York to Washington D.C.?

Standard rental insurance typically covers one-way trips, but it's recommended to confirm this with the rental company. Additional insurance options may be available if desired.

Can I choose the type of vehicle for a one-way rental?

Yes, most companies allow you to select a preferred vehicle type during booking. Availability might vary by location and timing, so earlier reservations can help secure your desired car.

Are there any mileage limits for the trip?

Most rental agreements offer unlimited mileage, but it's crucial to verify the terms. Some companies have restrictions for long-distance one-way rentals.

How do I find the designated car return area in Washington D.C.?

Car return areas are usually well-marked near the destination city’s airport or specified downtown locations. Instructions are provided at pickup, and signs typically guide you upon arrival.

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes