What Happens If You Take A Rental Car Out Of State (Explained)

Renting a car for leisure or work has its own advantages. It provides the convenience of exploring new places without waiting for public transportation. Are you planning an adventurous cross-country road trip? If yes, we know how excited you are. But hold on! You are not sure if you can take a rental car out of state. You will first have to go through the car rental agreement, as some companies may not allow you to take the rental car out of state.

Generally, if you rent a car from a small car rental company, they have limited locations. They do not allow the drivers to take rental cars out of state because they are not equipped to offer some necessary things. For instance, once the customer crosses the state border, they are confined to offering roadside emergency assistance to the customer. However, bigger rental car companies will allow out-of-state travel but with some restrictions.

However, before you rent a car, consider "What happens if you take a rental car out of state." We discusses things that will help you avoid fees and restrictions.

When You Cannot Take Your Rental Car Out Of State?

Generally, there are three scenarios in which you cannot take your rental car out of state. Gratefully, these are rare scenarios and only applicable in specific circumstances.

For instance, mileage limitations, geographic restrictions, and specific location rules. These things may stop you from taking a rental car out of state.

Let's dive deeper into the reasons that may stop you from taking a rental car out of state.

Mileage Limitations

Suppose the car rental company provides limited mileage and does not offer unlimited mileage. The limitation might be over if you take the car out of state.

However, rental companies that provide unlimited mileage allow you to take the car across state lines. But may charge an additional fee if you drive the car out of state.

Geographic Restrictions

Few car rental companies may not allow you to take the car beyond certain geographic restrictions. It can be a state, country, or geographic region. However, it depends on the car rental company and the pickup spot.

Remember, do not take all this for granted, as you cannot get away from all this because the rental cars have GPS tracking.

If you violate geographical restrictions, you may have to pay hefty fees. Moreover, having a lack of liability coverage or insurance during an accident will lead you to pay the entire cost of the vehicle.

Specific-Location Rules

Some states and locations have more stringent rental car regulations. If you rent a car, you may not be allowed to leave the rental state or the island from which the car was rented.

Things To Consider When Renting A Car For Out Of State Travel

What other things must you consider to take a rental vehicle out of state? Below are some important points you must consider before you plan to drive a rental car to another state.

Beware Of One-Way Car Rental Drop Charges

You might have to pay a hefty charge for one-way dropping because you pick up the car from one location and drop it off at another. Before renting a car, get a written confirmation about the one-way drop charge.

Be Comfortable With Other Vehicle Classes

In some situations, a rental car company will not allow you to drive large vehicle classes (for example, SUVs, exotic cars, or large cargo vans) after a mileage limitation is set. It makes taking the vehicle across the state lines impossible without paying the charge. If you are comfortable renting a smaller vehicle class, you will not face this problem.

Go Through Your Rental Agreement

On your rental agreement, there is some fine print that you have to read carefully. It will be better that you go through the terms and conditions that are mentioned on the website of the rental car company.

Also Read: How Long Can You Keep A Rental Car Before They Report It Stolen?

Do Not Ignore The Rules

It can be thrilling when you ignore the rules and drive the vehicle across the state lines. But you cannot take the rental car out of state after some time. Even the rental cars have GPS trackers installed, and now you may be charged a heavy fine. Suppose you get into an accident around the state lines where you should not be. You may be liable for violating the rules and for damages.

Key Aspects Of Crossing Border Car Rental

Below are some of the questions you may consider before renting a car. Go through them and find all your answers.

How The Rental Company Knows You Cross The State Border?

All rental companies' cars are equipped with GPS trackers. They follow wherever you are going and know whether you have crossed the border. It's better to tell the rental car company about your plans to take the car out of state. It will give you clarification on whether that particular rental car company will allow it or not.

Why You Are Not Able To Drive A Car Over The State Border?

Most rental car companies allow you to take rental cars out of state, but some may charge additional fees for crossing the state or country border. So, if you wish to take the car out of state, ask the rental car company if they allow it and charge no penalties. If that particular company doesn't allow it, search for another company.

Do not violate any of the rules. Remember, if you rent a car, you must keep the car safe.

Do I Have To Pay An Extra Fee To Drive Rental Car Out Of State?

Most rental cars do not charge any extra fee for taking the car out of state. But few of them do! In different locations, the price can be different. So, before you choose your favorite car, it is better that you go through the rental car policy.

Can You Take Rental Cars Out Of State At Low Price?

Are you looking to travel out of state? Searching for the best rental car company that offers you a car at a low price? The below tips can help you grab a good deal and find the best car at a low price for out-of-state trips. You just have to be sure that you have all the essential documents and drive safely. 

You Should be Honest

If you are planning to take the vehicle out of state, do not forget to inform the rental car company. Yes, there can be situations where the rental car company may tell you to pay an extra fee for crossing the border. Even some rental car companies may not allow you to go out of state. But you can secure yourself from paying high penalties for any damage.

Unlimited Mileage

Most big rental car companies have a policy to provide unlimited mileage. Find those rental car companies that follow this policy for out-of-state travel. Also, you may have to pay an extra charge if you do not follow the limitations.

Fill The Tank Full

When you return from your trip, try to return the vehicle with a full tank. It is the rule that you have to follow. If you break this rule, you may have to pay the charge.

Look For Discounts

If you want to rent a car out of state, check for coupons or discounts. Once you have booked the vehicle, do not hesitate to make changes if you find some other vehicle at a lower price or want to change the route.

Conclusion

The answer to what happens if you take a rental car out of state depends on various factors. These factors include the car rental company you choose, whether they allow you to travel to another state, whether you made the car rental company aware before taking the car out of state, and many more. However, to avoid paying extra charges and penalties, the best choice is to make the rental company aware of your intent to drive the car to another state.

Looking to plan a road trip out of the state? Seeking an affordable option? Then, reach out to Bon Voyage Car Rentals. Bon Voyage Car Rental is one the leading car rental companies in Lanham, MD. We provide the best car rental service at an affordable price.