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One-Way Car Rentals from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale

Convenient and efficient one-way car rental options tailored for your journey

Can I rent a car from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale. 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 UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX. Supported card types include XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 99 years. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver fee of US$ 27.00 per day applies.
  • 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 International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
    • Original South Korea Driving Licence (English version). An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.
  • 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, and AMEX. Supported card types include XpCard and DcCard.
  • Age requirements: Drivers must be aged between 20 and 99 years. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver fee of US$ 27.00 per day applies.
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How much does renting a car from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale 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$ 45/day
Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

US$ 50/day
Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 45-US$ 58US$ 0US$ 133-US$ 161Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 47US$ 0US$ 134Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 46-US$ 72US$ 0US$ 136-US$ 200Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 54-US$ 63US$ 0US$ 149-US$ 531Large groups, long drivers
PremiumUS$ 59-US$ 81US$ 0US$ 177-US$ 242Families, comfort seeker
VanUS$ 101-US$ 104US$ 0US$ 301-US$ 940Large families, groups
Pickup TruckUS$ 60-US$ 70US$ 0US$ 182-US$ 210Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

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

Key Consideration:
  • Understand one-way fees: Some car rental companies might charge an additional fee for one-way rentals. Make sure to review and include this in your budget.
  • Cross-border restrictions: Ensure whether the rental car is permitted to be driven across state lines if applicable.
  • Flexible drop-off times: Check if the drop-off location offers flexible or extended after-hours drop-off times.
  • Drop-off location differences: Confirm the exact drop-off address to avoid any confusion or additional transit.
  • Fuel policies: Some rental companies have specific fuel policies; it's good to know whether to return the car with a full tank.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route ahead: Planning the stops and checking for fuel stations along your journey ensures a smoother trip.
  • Check travel duration: Verify the travel time and factor in unexpected delays such as traffic or weather.
  • Inspect the rental vehicle: Before driving off, inspect the car for any dents or damage and report them to the rental company.
  • Verify insurance coverage: Check if your credit card or personal car insurance covers rentals to avoid overlapping policies.
  • Pack essentials: Keep emergency and travel essentials such as a first-aid kit, water, and navigation tools handy.
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 vehicle before returning it to avoid extra charges.

Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.

Plan refueling stops along the route to avoid running low on fuel.

Fuel Cost

The average fuel price along this 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 fuel efficiency.

Limit the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.

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St Petersburg Parking

Metered parking is available in downtown areas.

Hourly rates range from $1 to $2 depending on the location.

Look for free parking zones during weekends or holidays.

Fort Lauderdale Parking

Public parking garages are available near major attractions.

Daily parking fees range from $10 to $20.

Consider using park-and-ride services for cost savings.

Recommended Parking Apps

ParkMobile - for finding and paying for parking spots.

SpotHero - for reserving parking in advance.

PayByPhone - for convenient metered parking payments.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Driving Routes from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale:
Coastal Scenic Route
Scenic Drive 6 hours 30 minutes

Enjoy picturesque views of Florida's coastal landscapes.

Tampa , Sarasota , Naples
Inland Direct Route
Direct Drive 6 hours

A quick and straightforward route through Florida's central highways.

Lakeland , Orlando , West Palm Beach
Heritage and Culture Route
Cultural Drive 7 hours

Explore historical sites and cultural attractions along the way.

St Petersburg , Fort Myers , Cultural Fort Lauderdale District
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Right Vehicle: Opt for a fuel-efficient car if traveling solo, or an SUV for family trips.

Understand Rental Agreements: Familiarize yourself with one-way fees and accept the terms carefully before booking.

Plan Your Route in Advance: Download maps and note highway exits before you set off.

Keep Track of Gas Stations: Refuel regularly and know the location of gas stations along your route.

Book Accommodations Early: If staying overnight, make your hotel reservations in advance.

Stay Alert and Safe: Adhere to local traffic laws and take breaks if driving for an extended period.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Selecting a car rental company is essential in planning your one-way trip from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale. Here are some top providers offering this service.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$Wide selection of vehicles available for multiple purposes, from compacts to SUVs.Extensive coverage across Florida, including both cities. Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations. , Strong focus on customer service. , Wide range of vehicle types.
Hertz$$Diverse fleet ranging from economy to luxury cars.Operates in many cities across the U.S., including St Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale. Reward programs for frequent renters. , Several insurance options available. , Vehicles equipped with modern features.
Alamo Rent A Car$$Mostly compact, family, and SUV options.Fair availability at major destinations. Affordable pricing for long distances and one-way travel. , Online check-in for faster pick-ups. , Exclusive offers for students and young drivers.
Avis$$Includes premium vehicles and high-mileage options.Wide coverage through national locations. Flexible pick-up/drop-off policies. , Frequent special offers and promotions. , Enhanced loyalty program with benefits like upgrades and discounts.
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

Rental Information for St Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale Locations

Operating Hours:

Both locations operate typically from 8 AM to 10 PM. Check specific company details for variations.

Rental Car Center Locations:

In St Petersburg, the rental centers are situated near the downtown area. In Fort Lauderdale, car return is conveniently near the main airport terminal.

Airport Shuttle Service:

Shuttles run from key transit points like airports and train stations to rental centers every 20-30 minutes, depending on the service.

Pro Tips for St Petersburg Airport(PIE) Car Rentals

It's recommended to call ahead to confirm your reservation and inquire about any current promotions or policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a car at one location, such as St Petersburg, and drop it off at another, like Fort Lauderdale, without needing to return it to the original rental location.

Are there additional fees for a one-way car rental?

Yes, many car rental companies charge a one-way fee or drop-off charge for the convenience of returning the vehicle to a different location than the pickup point. This fee varies by rental company and route.

How long does it take to drive from St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale?

The driving distance between St Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale is approximately 265 miles and takes about 4–5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Can I choose the type of car for my rental?

Yes, car rental companies typically offer a range of vehicle options, from economy cars to luxury SUVs. Availability may vary, so it’s recommended to book in advance.

What should I consider when planning a one-way car trip?

Factors to keep in mind include rental costs, one-way fees, toll roads, fuel expenses, and making sure the rental company has a location at your destination in Fort Lauderdale.

Ready to Book Your St Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale Adventure?

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes