Rental Companies Allowing Travel To Canada: Who's On Board?

Planning a trip to Canada and want to take a rental car across the border? It's important to know which rental companies allow this and what you need to do to prepare. Most major rental companies in the United States, such as Budget, Avis, Hertz, Alamo, and Enterprise, generally permit their customers to drive their rental vehicles into Canada. However, smaller or off-brand companies may have restrictions, so it's always good to check with the company directly. When taking a rental car to Canada, it's crucial to have a Canadian non-resident insurance card, which you can usually obtain for free from the rental company. This card indicates that you have auto insurance that is valid in Canada and needs to be kept in the car at all times. In addition, make sure to inform the rental company in advance about your travel plans, as taking a rental car across the border without their consent can lead to problems.

Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, Enterprise, etc. allow travel to Canada

All travellers must comply with the restrictions determined by the Canadian Border Services (CBSA) officials, which include providing proof of citizenship or permanent residency, such as a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card. Obtaining a Canadian non-resident insurance card is also essential, as it serves as proof of auto insurance that is valid in Canada. This card can typically be acquired for free at the rental counter or from your rental agent. Remember to keep it in the vehicle at all times, as it is required by Canadian law.

When renting a car from Hertz, they require renters to advise the rental counter of their intention to drive into Canada. Additionally, Hertz emphasizes the need for a valid license, rental record, and passport for everyone in the vehicle. It is worth noting that Hertz vehicles are not permitted to be driven into Mexico.

Other major rental companies, such as Avis, Budget, and Enterprise, also allow travel to Canada. It is always recommended to review the specific requirements and restrictions of each rental company before finalizing your plans.

Overall, while it is possible to travel to Canada in a rental car from major companies like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Enterprise, it is important to be well-informed about the necessary documentation, insurance requirements, and company-specific policies to ensure a smooth cross-border experience.

Smaller rental companies may have restrictions on travel to Canada

For example, Fox Rent A Car does not allow cars rented in Florida to leave the state, but does allow cars rented in Seattle to enter Canada. EZ Rent A Car won't let their cars out of Washington or Oregon states.

When renting a car in the US, it's worth noting that all rental companies at airports are located in an off-site rental facility, and you will need to take a shuttle to get to the rental location. The airport charges a per-day fee on all rentals from its rental location, so it may be cheaper to rent from a location in the city.

When driving a rental car from the US into Canada, you will need to be prepared with the necessary documents. These include:

• Proof of citizenship (e.g. passport, birth certificate, certificate of citizenship)
• Membership card for members of NEXUS or FAST programs
• Passport and valid visa for international visitors
• Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative enhanced driver's license
• Tribal ID card for Native Americans
• Military ID for those travelling on military orders
• Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card or US auto insurance
• Car rental documentation

You must notify the rental company of your travel plans

When planning a trip to Canada, it is important to notify your rental company of your travel plans. This is because taking a rental car across the border often comes with specific requirements and restrictions. While most major rental companies will allow cross-border travel, smaller companies may have limitations. For example, Fox Rent A Car does not allow their cars rented in Florida out of the state, and EZ Rent A Car does not permit their vehicles to leave Washington or Oregon states.

To avoid any issues, it is essential to communicate your intentions to the rental company in advance. Some companies, like Avis, require you to notify the rental agent about your travel plans so they can provide you with a Non-Resident Insurance Card, also known as a yellow card. This card verifies that you have auto insurance that is valid in Canada. Budget also provides these cards for free, and they must be kept inside the rental car at all times.

Additionally, one-way rentals into Canada may be allowed, but they are often subject to availability and specific location restrictions. For instance, Budget and Avis allow one-way rentals to Canada only at select locations near the U.S.-Canada border. Therefore, it is crucial to check the terms and conditions of your desired rental company and location before booking.

By informing the rental company of your travel plans, you can ensure that you have the necessary documentation, insurance, and authorizations in place to drive their vehicle into Canada. This proactive step can help you avoid any legal complications, fines, or unexpected expenses during your trip.

You will need a Canadian non-resident insurance card

When renting a car to travel from the US to Canada, you will need a Canadian non-resident insurance card. This is a basic document that indicates that your vehicle is properly insured and that your US auto insurance policy meets the minimum requirements for all Canadian provinces and territories. It is a yellow card that must be kept inside the car at all times.

You can obtain a Canadian non-resident insurance card at no cost from your rental company. For example, Budget offers free non-resident insurance cards at their rental counter, so be sure to inform your agent of your travel plans when you pick up your rental car. Other major rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Enterprise should also be able to provide you with the necessary insurance card for travelling to Canada.

It is important to note that if you are a US traveller in Canada and are unable to present a Canadian Non-Resident Interprovincial Motor Vehicle Liability Card to the Canadian police or are involved in an accident, you risk being fined or having your vehicle impounded until you can provide proof of proper insurance coverage. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you obtain this insurance card before beginning your trip to Canada.

In addition to the non-resident insurance card, you will also need to carry a motor vehicle liability card and your vehicle ownership papers. A copy of your automobile policy is also recommended.

You must carry the necessary documents for a border crossing

When crossing the border from the US into Canada, you must carry the necessary documents. Without these documents, you will not be allowed into the country. Here is a list of documents you may need:

• A Canadian immigrant visa (if applicable)
• Confirmation of Permanent Residence for each family member travelling with you
• A valid passport or other acceptable identification for each family member travelling with you. This includes a Canadian passport, Canadian emergency travel document, Canadian citizenship card, birth certificate, driver's license, etc.
• A detailed list of all personal or household items you are bringing with you, including their value, make, model, and serial number.
• A list of items that are arriving later and their monetary value
• Health documentation, including vaccination records
• Marriage certificates
• Driver's license, including an International Driver's Permit
• A reference from your auto insurance company
• Adoption, separation, or divorce papers
• School records, diplomas, or degrees for each family member travelling with you
• A list of your educational and professional qualifications and job experience for your resume
• A completed Customs Declaration Card, which can be filled out in advance or upon arrival
• If you are a US citizen or permanent resident, you must carry proof of citizenship such as a certificate of citizenship, naturalization, Indian Status with photo ID, or a US Permanent Resident Card.
• If travelling with minors, carry copies of any legal custody documents and a consent letter if the other parent or guardian is not present
• If you are taking a rental car into Canada, you will need a Canadian non-resident insurance card, which you can obtain for free at the rental counter

It is important to note that some rental car companies may have restrictions on cross-border travel, so it is recommended to check with the company in advance. Keep your important documents easily accessible and translated into English or French to facilitate the border crossing process.

Frequently asked questions