Car Rental in Cleveland - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Cleveland is highly recommended for tourists, as the city's public transportation system is limited compared to other major U.S. cities. While downtown Cleveland is walkable and served by the HealthLine rapid transit, a car provides essential flexibility for exploring attractions spread across the metro area, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Museum of Art, and neighborhoods like Little Italy and Ohio City. Car rental is particularly valuable for visiting nearby destinations such as Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Lake Erie shoreline, or taking day trips to Cedar Point amusement park. Roads are well-maintained and driving is on the right side, following standard U.S. traffic rules. Winter driving can be challenging due to lake-effect snow, so visitors between November and March should be prepared for winter conditions. Downtown parking can be expensive and congested during business hours and events, so if you're staying exclusively in the city center, you might skip the rental. However, for most visitors wanting to experience Greater Cleveland and surrounding areas, a car offers the freedom and convenience that public transit cannot match. Driving is straightforward for tourists familiar with U.S. road systems.

International Driving Permit

Foreign visitors should check if an IDP is required based on their home country. Obtain from your home country's automobile association before travel if needed.

Minimum Age

Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some agencies setting the minimum at 25. Young driver surcharges typically apply for renters under 25.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. License must be in Roman alphabet or accompanied by an official translation.

Credit Card

A major credit card in the driver's name is typically required for the security deposit. Debit cards may not be accepted by all rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but additional coverage options are available. Check if your personal auto insurance or credit card provides rental car coverage before purchasing extra protection.

Passport

International visitors should carry their passport as a form of identification when renting and driving. May be requested along with your driver's license.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) offers the most rental car options with major agencies located in the on-site Rental Car Center, accessible via a short walkway from baggage claim - generally more convenient than searching for city locations.

Before driving off, inspect the vehicle thoroughly for existing damage and ensure it's documented, verify you have the correct insurance coverage for Ohio, and familiarize yourself with the car's controls - Cleveland winters can be harsh, so check that heating and defrosting systems work properly.

Download offline maps or ensure your GPS is updated before departure, as cell service can be spotty in some areas - Cleveland's street grid can be confusing with numbered streets running at angles, so reliable navigation is essential.

Most rental cars come with a full tank and require return with a full tank - gas stations are readily available near the airport on Brookpark Road, and be aware that downtown Cleveland parking typically requires payment at meters or garages with rates varying by location.

Allow extra time for your return, especially during peak travel periods - follow signs to the Rental Car Center at CLE, and keep your receipt and fuel documentation until charges are finalized on your credit card.

Cleveland experiences severe winter weather from November through March with heavy snow, ice, and lake-effect storms that can create hazardous driving conditions - winter tires and experience driving in snow are essential during these months.

Rush hour traffic is heaviest on I-90, I-71, and I-77 from 7-9 AM and 4-6:30 PM on weekdays, particularly around downtown interchanges and the Innerbelt Bridge area.

Potholes are a significant road hazard, especially in spring after freeze-thaw cycles - stay alert and maintain safe following distances as road conditions can deteriorate quickly after winter.

Ohio has strict distracted driving laws and active traffic enforcement - avoid using handheld devices while driving and be aware that speed limits are enforced with both marked and unmarked police vehicles.