Car Rental in Miami: Local Tips You Won't Find Online
Renting a car in a new city is easier when you know what locals know. Traffic patterns, parking tricks, and the best pickup locations are different everywhere.
• Check local toll and parking costs before renting
• Some cities are better explored without a car
• Off airport locations can save 15 to 25 percent
• Factor in congestion charges in European cities
Compare car rental prices now and see how much you can save.
MIA Airport Pickup Tips
Miami International Airport's rental car center (MIA Rental Car Center or RCC) is connected to the terminal by the MIA Mover — a free automated train. Follow signs to "Rental Cars" and take the MIA Mover from the 3rd level of the airport. The ride takes about 5 minutes. All major rental companies are in one building, making comparison easy if you walk up.
Toll Roads Are Everywhere
Miami and South Florida use SunPass for electronic tolls. The Turnpike, 836, and most expressways are tolled. Your rental company will offer a SunPass for $3-5/day or charge you per toll at a markup. If you are staying more than 3 days, buy a $5 SunPass Mini at a Publix or CVS and load it with $20 — cheaper than the daily rental fee.
Parking in South Beach
Street parking in South Beach is metered and expensive ($4-6/hour). The municipal garages at 7th Street, 13th Street, and 17th Street are cheaper for all-day parking. Never park in unmarked lots with attendants waving you in — these are often unofficial and your car may be towed or damaged with no recourse.
The Keys Road Trip
Driving to the Florida Keys from Miami takes about 3.5 hours to Key West. The Overseas Highway (US-1) is one of the most scenic drives in America but has no alternative routes — if there is an accident, traffic stops completely. Leave Miami by 7 AM to avoid the worst traffic through Homestead and Key Largo.
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