Renting A Car in Virginia

A Guide for Tourists and Business Travelers Renting a Car in Norfolk, Virginia

Welcome to Norfolk, Virginia. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, renting a car is the perfect way to explore the city. With Norfolk International Airport being the primary gateway into the city, it's no surprise that plenty of car rental options are available at your convenience. This guide provides everything you need about renting a car in the area – from driving directions, rental requirements, and alternative transport options to must-see attractions and accommodations.

Car Rental Options in Virginia

Virginia has several on-site rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and more. These companies offer a variety of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.

Avis and Budget are in the baggage claim area, while Enterprise is in the arrivals terminal. Hertz and National/Alamo are near the parking garage across from the arrivals terminal. All these locations are easily accessible from the main airport building by shuttle service or a short walk.

Suppose you prefer to book your car rental online before arriving at the airport. In that case, most major car rental companies have websites where you can choose your preferred vehicle type and make reservations.

Additionally, off-airport car rental agencies provide shuttle service to their facilities outside the airport grounds. However, it's important to note that renting a car from an off-airport location may require additional planning and travel time.

For prices and rental car availability, see car rental services in Virginia.

Driving Directions at Norfolk Airport

Once you land at the airport, follow the signs leading to baggage claim and rental cars. You can pick up your rental car from one of several on-site companies.

When leaving the airport, take Norview Avenue westbound towards downtown Norfolk. If you're heading out of town towards Virginia Beach or the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, take I-64 East.

If this is your first time driving in Virginia or if you need assistance with GPS navigation, most rental car companies offer GPS devices for rent along with their vehicles.

It's important to note that traffic in Norfolk can be heavy during rush hours and major events such as concerts and festivals. Be sure to plan accordingly and allow plenty of time for travel.

Benefits of Renting a Car in Virginia

Renting a car in Virginia, can be a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas. One of the biggest benefits is flexibility – you can go wherever you want, whenever you want.

With a rental car, you won't be dependent on public transportation or ride-sharing services. You'll also save time by not waiting for buses or trains. Plus, you can avoid surge pricing during peak travel times.

Another benefit is convenience. Most major car rental companies have locations at Norfolk International Airport, making it easy to pick up your vehicle upon arrival. Additionally, many hotels offer free parking for guests with cars.

Your rental car also lets you see more sights outside of Norfolk. For example, Colonial Williamsburg and Virginia Beach are just a short drive away.

Renting a car gives you privacy and comfort while traveling around the city. You don't have to share space with strangers or adhere to their schedules – it's up to you.

What are the requirements to rent a car in Virginia?

To rent a car in Virginia, you must meet certain requirements. First and foremost, you need to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may have to pay an additional fee due to their lack of driving experience. While most car rental companies rent to drivers aged 21 and above, every car company has its policy.

You will also need a valid driver's license issued in your state or country of residence. If you are an international traveler, ensure your license is written in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit.

Learn more on how to obtain an International Driving Permit to drive in the United States.

It is important to note that some rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security purposes. Additionally, they may run a credit check before letting you rent a vehicle.

Ensure you have adequate car insurance coverage before renting a car in Virginia. Some rental companies offer optional insurance coverage for an extra fee. It is always recommended to check with your personal insurance provider first.

By fulfilling these requirements, tourists and business travelers can enjoy exploring Norfolk and other parts of Virginia easily and conveniently by renting cars from trusted agencies in Virginia.

What are the payment options for renting a car in Virginia?

In Virginia, the payment options for renting a car vary depending on the rental company you choose. Most companies accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. You can also use cash or debit cards as payment in some cases. Before renting a car in Virginia, ask what types of payments are accepted so you can plan accordingly.

Ultimately, the payment options available will depend on your rental company. Read the terms and conditions carefully before making a reservation to know what payment methods are accepted and any associated fees or restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions when Renting a Car in Virginia

When renting a car in Virginia, there are some frequently asked questions that renters should be aware of. Here are the answers to some of those commonly asked questions:

Q: What are the basic requirements to rent a car in Virginia?

A: To rent a car in Virginia, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver's license and credit card.

Q: What are the payment options for renting a car in Virginia?

A: Most rental agencies accept major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover Card. Debit cards may also be accepted, but checking with your rental agency beforehand is important.

Q: Do I need insurance when renting a car in Virginia?

A: Yes. All drivers must carry liability insurance coverage while driving on public roads and highways in Virginia. Rental agencies typically offer additional collision damage waiver (CDW) coverage for an extra fee. Renting a car in the Commonwealth of Virginia necessitates the driver to have liability coverage.

Several firms offer rental car insurance in the state. It includes basic liability coverage and the option to purchase additional coverage, including personal accident insurance and collision damage waivers.

Q: What happens if I return my rental car late?

A: You may be subject to additional fees if you return your rental vehicle late in Virginia. Fee fees can range from hourly to daily depending on the rental agency and your initial due date for returning the car.

Some companies will also charge an extra fee if they wait a few hours past the original due date before receiving payment or pick-up for their vehicles. It is important to ensure that all details regarding late returns are discussed with your rental company beforehand so there are no surprises when it comes time to pay.

Q: Can I rent a car one-way from Norfolk Airport to another city within the state?

A: Yes, renting a car one-way from Norfolk International Airport to another city within the state is possible. Most major car rental companies offer this service, and you may even be eligible for discounted rates depending on your destination. However, additional fees may apply depending on the distance between pickup and drop-off locations.

It's always a good idea to check with the individual company before booking to get the best deal available. Be sure to read through their terms and conditions thoroughly to ensure everything is covered during your journey.

What to do when driving in Virginia for the first time?

The city has plenty of one-way streets, and paying close attention to traffic signs is important. Trucks are restricted to 45 mph, and other vehicles are allowed 55 mph on secondary routes. The standard speed limit for dirt roads is 35 mph. Here are some tips to help make your first-time driving experience less stressful.

• Familiarize yourself with the city's layout before hitting the road. Knowing where you're going is always better than relying on GPS alone. Before your trip, study maps and plan out your route.
• Pay extra attention when entering or exiting highways, as they tend to be busy during peak hours. Use turn signals appropriately, especially when changing lanes or turning onto major roads.
• Be aware of pedestrian crossings and yield accordingly - pedestrians always have the right of way.
• Watch for parking regulations around residential areas, as certain restrictions may apply on different days.
• Stay patient and calm throughout your drive – remember that everyone was once new here.

Do I need snow chains for car rentals in Virginia?

When planning a visit to Virginia during the winter months, it's important to consider the driving conditions that you may encounter. Snow and ice can make roads slippery and dangerous, so taking precautions when renting a car is important.

While snow chains are not required by law in Virginia, they can be useful for navigating snowy or icy roads. Suppose you plan on driving through mountainous regions or areas with heavy snowfall. In that case, renting a car equipped with snow tires or bringing your snow chains is recommended.

Be sure to check with your car rental company before deciding whether or not to use snow chains. Some rental companies have policies against using them due to liability concerns.

If you use snow chains, ensure they are properly installed before hitting the road. It's also important to drive slowly and carefully when using them, as they can affect steering and braking performance.

Whether or not you need snow chains depends on your specific travel plans and the weather conditions during your visit. Be sure to stay informed about local weather patterns and adjust your plans accordingly for safe travels.

What to do if a traffic police in Virginia stop you?

It's important to know traffic laws and regulations. In case you get stopped by a traffic police officer in Virginia, here are some tips on what to do:

• Remain calm and polite. Turn off your engine and lower your window so the officer can communicate easily. Keep your hands visible on the steering wheel to avoid any suspicion.
• Provide all requested documents, such as driver's licenses, car registration papers, and insurance proof when asked. Please make sure they are valid and up-to-date.
• Listen carefully to what the officer says or asks for. If you need help understanding something, politely ask them for clarification.
• Refrain from arguing or trying to negotiate with the officer about any violations they might inform you have committed. You may present evidence of an alleged violation in court later if necessary.

Make sure that you follow whatever instructions are given by the police regarding further actions like paying fines etc., failing which legal action could be taken against you later on.

What are the parking and traffic regulations in Virginia?

It's best to familiarize yourself with Virginia's parking and traffic regulations before renting a car to avoid any potential fines or legal issues during your travels. Parking on public streets within city limits is usually limited to two hours unless otherwise posted. In some areas, there are designated parking zones where you must pay for a permit or metered spots that require payment.

You should always follow posted signs and obey all traffic laws when driving in Virginia. This includes following speed limits, wearing seat belts, and not using your phone while driving. You must also yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and give right-of-way to emergency vehicles with sirens or flashing lights.

It's important to note that Virginia has strict drunk driving laws with severe penalties for those caught operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The legal limit is 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for drivers aged 21 years or older. Any driver with a BAC of.08 or greater is regarded to be driving under the influence (DUI), and anyone aged 21 or older who is impaired while driving is equally guilty of DUI.

For more details about parking needs, see parking options in Virginia.

What are the alternatives to renting a car in Virginia?

The city offers an efficient public transportation system with buses and light rail services. Hampton Roads Transit is the agency in charge of providing these services, which are affordable and reliable.

Norfolk public buses and light rail services provide efficient and affordable ways to get around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft are also available. For those who prefer a more active form of transportation, several bike-share programs throughout Norfolk allow users to rent bicycles hourly.

For comfortable and affordable transport alternatives, see more information about available transport options in Virginia.

What are the must-see attractions I can visit using a rental car in Virginia?

Norfolk is a vibrant city with plenty of exciting attractions for tourists and business travelers. If you plan on renting a car in the area, add these must-see attractions to your itinerary.

First up is the Chrysler Museum of Art, which boasts an impressive collection of over 30,000 pieces spanning 5,000 years of history. There's something for everyone here, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art exhibits.

Another popular attraction in Norfolk is the USS Wisconsin BB-64 Battleship Museum. This historic battleship was commissioned during World War II and played a vital role in many conflicts throughout its service. Visitors can take self-guided tours and learn about the ship's fascinating history.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is to be noticed for nature lovers. With over 60 themed gardens spread across 175 acres, this tranquil oasis offers visitors the chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

A trip to Norfolk would only be complete with visiting the Virginia Zoo. Home to over 700 animals representing more than 150 species worldwide, this family-friendly attraction provides hours of entertainment for visitors, young and old alike.

Discover outdoor activities and attractions in and around the city, see more information about the best tourism offerings in Virginia.

What are the available accommodations in Virginia?

Norfolk, Virginia, has various hotels, motels, and other accommodations. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly chains, you can find the perfect place to stay for your needs. There are many options for those looking for more amenities, such as spas or restaurants, including boutique hotels and extended-stay properties.

For visitors who prefer staying in smaller places with personalized service, bed & breakfast inns provide an intimate atmosphere while offering modern conveniences like Wi-Fi access and flat-screen televisions.

Budget-friendly options in the area offer rooms starting at $59 per night. Room rates begin at $179 per night for those looking for something more luxurious. Mid-range accommodations near popular attractions also offer rooms for $129 per night.

To compare prices or book a hotel before or during your stay, see detailed information about available hotels and accommodations in Virginia.