Car Rental in France for US Travelers

Embarking on a French road trip is an experience of a lifetime.
As a US traveler, you may have questions such as:

Can I drive in France with my US license?
Do I need additional insurance coverage?
What should I know about toll roads and local traffic regulations?
Are there specific vehicle types suited for French roads?
How can I ensure the best deals on car rentals in France?

This guide provides detailed information to address these questions and more. By the end, you'll feel confident navigating France's roads and enjoying your journey.

Can US Citizens Drive in Spain?

Yes, US travelers can legally drive in Spain with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, and Master.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 19 and 80 years old. Young drivers aged 19-20 incur a fee of US$ 12.84 per day (capped at US$ 154.08 per rental), while those aged 21-24 incur a fee of US$ 10.49 per day (capped at US$ 125.94 per rental).

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Explore a variety of reputable car rental options in France. This includes both international chains with extensive networks and local companies offering tailored experiences.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
2636
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Established international presence
- Competitive pricing
- Loyalty rewards program
- Comprehensive insurance options
Best for
Leisure and business travelers looking for flexibility
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
460
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
634
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Easy online booking
- Flexible vehicle selection
- Customer-friendly policies
- Part of the Enterprise Holdings group
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
1331
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in many countries
- Easy online booking
- Wide range of vehicle types
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers seeking reliable options
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
1855
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong global presence
- User-friendly booking system
- Excellent customer service
- Loyalty rewards program
Best for
Business travelers and leisure travelers alike
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
1071
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide variety of vehicle types
- No hidden fees
- Easy online booking
- Customer loyalty program
Best for
Travelers looking for flexibility and a premium experience
GOLDCAR
global
8.5
Locations:
46
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Rentscape
local
8.5
Locations:
91
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Competitive pricing
- Convenient locations
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local residents
OK Mobility
local
8.5
Locations:
19
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Multiple pick-up and drop-off locations
- Personalized customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Sicily By Car
local
8.5
Locations:
22
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Multiple locations across Sicily
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking process
- Competitive rates
Best for
Travelers looking for value and convenience in Sicily

Recommendations for US Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer a familiar and standardized service experience.
You plan to travel extensively across regions.
You want the option for easy modifications or cancellations.
You require multilingual customer support.

Choose Local Brands If:

You aim to support the local economy and businesses.
You are looking for competitive pricing deals.
You want unique or specialized rental vehicles.
You are focusing your travel within specific cities or regions.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in the US
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most French rental cars are manual
  Consider your comfort level with manual driving
- For US travelers, automatic rentals might be less available in France
Insurance Included
Check the insurance coverage that comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Check with your credit card provider
  Some cards include rental insurance for international travel
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Calculate mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with the same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with the same level as pickup, ensures fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with manual transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Paris, Lyon, Nice
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Loire Valley, Provence, Normandy
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
French Riviera, Bordeaux, Corsica

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in France?

France is renowned for its charming cities, picturesque countryside, and famous landmarks. Travelers from the US can explore bustling Paris, scenic Provence, and the iconic French Riviera. Each destination offers unique experiences, from cultural highlights to exquisite cuisine.

What Insurance Do I Need?

Having appropriate insurance coverage is crucial when renting a car in France. While basic third-party liability insurance is typically included in rental agreements, additional coverage can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected costs. Understanding the available options will help ensure a safe and worry-free experience.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers the cost of damage to the rental vehicle in case of an accident.
$12-20/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Safeguards against financial liability in case the rental car is stolen.
$6-10/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Provides coverage for injuries or damages caused to other people or their property.
Included in most rentals
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Offers medical coverage for you and your passengers in the event of an accident.
$4-8/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW)
Reduces or eliminates the deductible for collision damage.
$15-25/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout France. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $5,277.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $5,277.00

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

Essential Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in France

Planning a trip from the US to France? Renting a car can be a fantastic way to explore the country. Follow these tips to save money and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Reserve your car at least 2-3 months in advance to secure the best rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Save up to 35%
Use Price Comparison Tools
Leverage online platforms like Kayak, Expedia, or QEEQ to compare rental prices across different companies.
Save $50-100
Choose Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for rental agreements that require the car to be returned with a full tank to avoid inflated refueling charges.
Save $20-50
Avoid Airport Rentals
Renting a car from a downtown location instead of the airport can help you avoid higher surcharges.
Save $30-70
Check for Credit Card Insurance
Many credit cards offer rental car insurance as a benefit, allowing you to skip extra coverage offered by rental companies.
Save $15-25/day
Understand Mileage Limits
Ensure the rental includes unlimited mileage if you plan to travel extensively to avoid extra fees.
Save up to $100

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in France.

Driving License Requirements
Ensure your driving license is valid and recognized in France.
- International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required.
- Check validity period and conditions.
- Verify requirements with rental agencies.
Driving Regulations
Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules to ensure safety.
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Special rules apply in roundabouts.
- Speed limits differ by road type and weather conditions.
Toll Roads and Charges
Be aware of toll roads and associated costs.
- Most highways in France have tolls.
- Toll fees can be paid in cash or via credit card.
- Consider obtaining a toll pass for convenience.
Fuel Costs and Policies
Understand the fuel policies to avoid extra costs.
- Diesel is commonly used; verify the fuel type.
- Keep receipts as proof if returning with a full tank.
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the vehicle.
Navigation and Parking
Plan your navigation and parking ahead of time.
- Use GPS or mobile apps for navigation.
- Parking in city centers can be limited and expensive.
- Pay attention to parking signs and restrictions.
Vehicle Inspection
Perform a thorough inspection before and after your rental period.
- Note any pre-existing damages.
- Take photographs as evidence.
- Verify the car's condition matches the rental agreement.

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rule Differences Between the US and France

Understanding the key differences and similarities in traffic regulations between the United States and France will ensure a safe and smooth driving experience during your travels.

Right Turn on Red
FR
Not allowed at red lights without a specific sign permitting it
US
Allowed after a complete stop unless prohibited by a sign
Speed Limits
FR
Posted in kilometers per hour, strict enforcement with cameras
US
Posted in miles per hour, enforcement varies by state
Blood Alcohol Limit
FR
0.05% BAC for most drivers, stricter for new drivers
US
0.08% BAC typically allowed
Mobile Phone Use
FR
Strictly prohibited unless hands-free
US
Hands-free allowed in most states
Seatbelt Laws
FR
Mandatory for all occupants
US
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
FR
Generally park in the direction of traffic flow, no parking signs and markings should be strictly observed
US
Varies by city, colored curbs indicate restrictions
Remember
- • Understand local traffic signs, as they might differ in design and language.
- • Carry your US driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- • Be cautious of automated traffic enforcement cameras present in many cities.
- • Study the rules for roundabouts, as they are more common in France.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from United States renting a car in France

What is the best way to book a rental car for France?

The most effective way is to use a reputable online car rental comparison and booking platform. We exclusively recommend QEEQ. It aggregates offers from major international and local rental companies, allowing you to compare prices, vehicle types, and rental conditions all in one place. QEEQ often features special package deals that can simplify insurance choices and offer better overall value.

How far in advance should I book my rental car for France?

For the best selection and prices, book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during the peak season (July-August) or if you require an automatic transmission or a larger vehicle. Last-minute bookings can be more expensive and have limited availability.

What size rental car should I choose for driving in France?

French roads and village streets are narrow, so think smaller than in the U.S. A 'Compact' or 'Economy' car is ideal for couples. For a family of four, a 'Compact Wagon' or 'Intermediate' vehicle offers a good balance of space and maneuverability. Avoid large SUVs unless you only plan to stick to major highways.

Should I book a manual or automatic transmission car in France?

If you're not fully comfortable with a manual transmission, you must book an automatic. Most rental cars in France are manual; automatics are less common, more expensive, and must be booked well in advance.

Is it better to pick up the rental car at the airport or a city/train station?

It depends on your itinerary. Airport pickup is convenient if heading straight to the countryside, avoiding city driving. City/train station pickup is ideal if staying in a major city first—pick up the car only when you leave the city to save on rental days and avoid parking hassles.

Can I rent a car in France and drop it off in another country?

Yes, most major rental companies allow international one-way rentals, but expect a substantial one-way fee, often several hundred Euros. Always verify cross-border policies and fees when booking. Dropping off within France at a different location usually incurs a smaller fee.

What documents do I need to rent a car in France as an American?

You will need: 1) A valid U.S. driver's license (held for at least one year), 2) An International Driving Permit (IDP), 3) Your passport as photo ID, and 4) A credit card in the primary driver's name for the security deposit.

Do I really need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for France?

Yes, the IDP is a legal requirement for American drivers in France. It serves as an official translation of your U.S. license. Police may fine you if you don't have it, even if the rental agent doesn't ask for it.

Where can I get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the USA?

You can get an IDP from the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Apply in person at a AAA office or by mail. The permit is inexpensive and valid for one year.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in France?

The minimum age is usually 21. Drivers under 25 are subject to a 'young driver surcharge.' Some vehicle categories (luxury, high-performance) may require drivers to be 25 or older.

Can I add an additional driver to my rental in France?

Yes, but usually for a daily fee. The additional driver must be present at pickup with their passport, valid license, and IDP. Only those listed on the rental agreement are legally allowed to drive.

Does my spouse automatically count as an additional driver in France?

No. Unlike in some U.S. states, your spouse must be officially registered on the rental agreement and pay any applicable fee. Some rental companies or promotions may include one additional driver for free—always check your booking.

What does the basic rental price in France usually include?

The base price typically covers the vehicle rental, mandatory third-party liability insurance, VAT (TVA), and unlimited mileage (kilométrage illimité).

What are CDW and LDW? Should I buy extra rental car insurance?

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) are not insurance but agreements that reduce your financial responsibility if the car is damaged or stolen. They usually come with a high deductible. Super CDW or zero-deductible packages reduce your out-of-pocket costs but cost extra.

Can I rely on my U.S. credit card for car rental insurance in France?

Many premium U.S. credit cards offer primary rental car insurance. Confirm your card covers France, decline the rental company's CDW/LDW, and pay with that card. If there's an incident, you'll pay the rental company first and file a claim with your credit card provider.

What is the security deposit for car rentals in France?

The rental company will place a hold on your credit card for a security deposit, usually equal to the insurance deductible (€1,000–€3,000). The hold is released after returning the car undamaged and with a full tank.

What are the different fuel policies for car rentals in France?

'Full-to-Full' is the best: you pick up and return the car with a full tank. Avoid 'Full-to-Empty' options, where you prepay for fuel at inflated rates and are not refunded for unused fuel.

Are there fees for driving a French rental car into other countries?

Yes. Inform the rental company if you plan to cross borders. There is usually a cross-border fee, and restrictions may apply to certain countries or vehicle types.

What are some common hidden fees in French car rentals?

Watch for location surcharges (airport/train station), young driver fees, additional driver fees, one-way fees, and GPS or child seat rentals. Booking a package on QEEQ can help make costs more transparent.

What should I have ready at the rental counter when picking up my car?

Bring your passport, U.S. driver's license, IDP, the credit card used for booking, and a printed or digital rental confirmation voucher.

How should I inspect the rental car before driving away?

Carefully check for any existing damage (scratches, dents) and make sure each one is noted on the rental agreement. Take timestamped photos or video of the car from all angles, including the wheels and interior.

What should I do if the rental agent pressures me to upgrade or buy more insurance?

Be polite but firm. If confident in your own coverage, decline the CDW/LDW with, 'No thank you, I have my own primary coverage.' Accept an upgrade only if it's free due to lack of availability of your booked class.

What questions should I ask before leaving the rental lot?

Ask: What type of fuel does the car use? Where are the emergency contact numbers and vehicle registration papers? How does the GPS/infotainment system work? Is there anything special about returning the car?

What if the automatic car I reserved is unavailable at pickup?

The rental company must provide a solution: waiting for another automatic, sourcing one from a nearby location, or a free upgrade to a higher class. Do not accept a manual if you are not comfortable with it.

How do I get my rental car out of a complicated airport parking garage?

Take your time. Adjust your seat and mirrors. Note exit signs (Sortie). You may need a ticket to exit—ask the agent. Drive slowly and let faster drivers pass if needed.

How do I know what kind of fuel to put in my rental car?

Look for a sticker inside the fuel door or on the key fob. Diesel is 'Gazole' (yellow or black pump), gasoline is 'Sans Plomb' (SP95 or SP98, green pump). Using the wrong fuel can destroy the engine and is not insured.

What should I do if I accidentally put the wrong fuel in the car?

Do NOT start the engine. Leave the car where it is and immediately call roadside assistance. The tank needs to be drained. Starting the engine can cause severe damage.

Should I rent a GPS from the rental company?

Usually, it's very expensive. Use your smartphone with Google Maps, Waze, or another app. Bring a phone holder and ensure you have an international data plan or offline maps.

What are the laws for child seats in France?

Children up to age 10 must use an approved child restraint. You can rent one from the rental company (reserve in advance), bring your own, or buy one locally.

What safety equipment must be in the car by law?

French law requires a reflective safety vest (gilet de sécurité) and a warning triangle (triangle de présignalisation) in every car. Check they are present before leaving the lot.

How do I operate features like headlights and wipers in a French rental car?

Controls are usually on stalks around the steering wheel, but symbols may differ. Familiarize yourself before driving. Headlights are often required in poor visibility (rain, fog).

What are the main differences between driving in France and the USA?

Key differences: 1) Roundabouts are common; cars inside have right of way. 2) Left lane on highways is for passing only. 3) Speed cameras are frequent. 4) At unsigned intersections, vehicles from the right have priority.

What are the general speed limits in France?

Limits are in km/h: Autoroutes - 130 (110 in rain), dual carriageways - 110, other roads - 80, towns/cities - 50 (sometimes 30 in residential areas).

How do I navigate a roundabout in France?

Slow down on approach, yield to traffic already in the roundabout (from your left), use your right turn signal when exiting.

What is the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in France?

The limit is 0.5 mg/ml—lower than most U.S. states. Even a single glass of wine can put you over. The best rule: if driving, don't drink.

Can I use my cell phone while driving in France?

It is strictly illegal to hold or use a cell phone while driving, even at red lights. Only hands-free systems are allowed. Fines are high.

What should I do if pulled over by the police in France?

Pull over safely, stay in your car unless told otherwise. Have your license, IDP, passport, and rental documents ready. Be polite. Fines may be payable on the spot.

What does it mean if a car behind me flashes its headlights?

It's a signal that they want to pass. If you're in the left lane, move over to the right as soon as it's safe.

How do French toll roads (autoroutes) work?

Take a ticket on entering the toll road and pay when you exit. Keep the ticket safe until you pay.

How do I pay at French toll booths?

Look for lane symbols: green arrow or cashier for cash, credit card symbol (CB) for chip-enabled cards. Some U.S. cards may not work at unmanned booths—carry some Euro cash. Do not use orange 't' (Télépéage) lanes unless you have a tag.

Is driving in Paris a good idea for visitors?

It is strongly discouraged for first-timers. Traffic is chaotic, navigation is complex, and parking is expensive and scarce. Use public transport in Paris and rent your car when leaving the city.

What is a Crit'Air sticker, and do I need one?

It's an Air Quality Certificate required for driving in Low Emission Zones in major cities (Paris, Lyon, Grenoble). Rental cars should already have the sticker—confirm this if you plan to drive into these areas.

How does parking work in French towns?

White lines indicate paid parking (use a meter and display ticket on dashboard). Yellow lines mean no parking. Blue lines are free but time-limited (zone bleue), requiring a paper parking disc, often provided in your rental car.

Where should I park when visiting small villages or historic centers?

Avoid driving into the old center. Look for public parking lots ('Parking') on the outskirts, which are usually well-signed. Walk into the center from there.

What should I do if I get a parking ticket in France?

You'll find a slip under your windshield wiper. Pay it promptly online or at a Tabac. If ignored, the fine will go to the rental company, who will add an administrative fee.

What is the process for returning a rental car in France?

Follow signs for 'Rental Car Return' at the airport or station. An agent will check for damage and fuel level. Allow at least 30 minutes for this process, especially at busy locations.

Why is the 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy important at return?

Refuel just before returning the car and keep the receipt. If you don’t, the rental company will refuel at much higher rates and add a service charge.

What should I do if my rental car breaks down or I'm in an accident?

Ensure safety first. Move to the side, turn on hazard lights, put on the reflective vest, and place the warning triangle 30 meters behind the car. Call the rental company's roadside assistance number. The European emergency number is 112.

What happens if I get a speeding ticket from a camera in France?

You may not know until weeks or months later. The authorities will contact the rental company, who charges your card an admin fee and passes along the fine. Pay it to avoid future entry issues.

What if I am running late for my rental car return?

Call the rental agency's local office immediately. Most have a short grace period, but significant delays may result in extra charges. Communication can help avoid excessive fees.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in France for US Travelers

Embarking on a French road trip is an experience of a lifetime. As a US traveler, you may have questions such as:

Can US Citizens Drive in Spain?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for US Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in France?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Essential Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in France

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rule Differences Between the US and France

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Embarking on a French road trip is an experience of a lifetime.
As a US traveler, you may have questions such as: