Car Rental in Doral, Florida

Where to drive

• Drive to South Beach in Miami, approximately 15 miles (25 km) away, for a dynamic mix of art deco architecture, sandy shores, and lively nightlife. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes.
• Visit Everglades National Park, about 45 miles (70 km) west, to experience unique wetlands, airboat tours, and diverse wildlife. Allow about an hour's drive to reach the park entrance.
• Explore the charming historic streets of Coral Gables and its Venetian Pool, roughly 10 miles (16 km) south of Doral, a pleasant 20-30 minute drive.
• Take a day trip to Key Largo, the first of the Florida Keys, approximately 65 miles (105 km) south. Enjoy snorkeling or diving in the clear waters; the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Head north to Fort Lauderdale's beaches and Las Olas Boulevard, about 35 miles (55 km) away, for a different coastal vibe and upscale shopping. Expect a drive of 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.

What documents you need

To rent a car in the United States, you'll generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport (for international visitors), and a major credit card in the renter's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended for non-US license holders, though not always strictly required by law in Florida, it's often requested by rental agencies. The minimum age to rent is typically 21, but renters under 25 may incur a 'young driver' surcharge. Some agencies may require at least one year of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Doral vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around $30-40 per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from $60 to over $100 daily. Summer and holiday periods typically see prices increase by 20-50% due to higher demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Florida, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 30 mph (48 km/h) in residential areas, 55 mph (88 km/h) on major roads, and 65-70 mph (105-113 km/h) on interstate highways, unless otherwise posted. It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Headlights must be used from dusk till dawn and in adverse weather conditions. Seatbelt use is mandatory for all occupants, and children under five years old must be secured in a federally approved child restraint device.

Parking

Parking in Doral and surrounding Miami areas can vary. Many shopping centers and businesses offer free parking. Downtown areas and popular tourist spots often have metered street parking or paid parking garages. Metered parking typically accepts credit cards or payment via mobile apps. Always check signs for parking restrictions and rates to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Gasoline (petrol) is widely available at numerous gas stations across Doral and throughout Florida. Prices are generally displayed per gallon and can fluctuate. Most stations accept major credit cards, and some offer a small discount for cash payments. Diesel is also available at many stations.

Which car to choose

For exploring Doral and venturing to nearby cities and beaches, a compact or economy car is often sufficient and fuel-efficient. If you plan trips to the Everglades or need more space for luggage or passengers, a mid-size sedan or an SUV would be more comfortable. Automatic transmission is standard in almost all rental cars in the US, so manual transmission vehicles are rare.

Frequently asked questions