Question 1

Are there any car rental shuttles or is it all via the train at MIA?

Accepted Answer

For the companies located in the Rental Car Center, you won’t need a shuttle, just the MIA Mover train. However, a handful of off-site rental agencies do exist. If you happen to book with one of those (or if you have a very specific need like an exotic car rental from a specialty firm), you would take the MIA Mover to the Rental Car Center and then transfer to that company’s shuttle. They usually pick up outside the RCC on the ground level. The vast majority of travelers, though, use the on-site companies and thus only ride the train. The airport really streamlined the process by opening the RCC, so gone are the days of lots of buses crowding the airport curb. Bottom line: unless your reservation explicitly says you need to take a shuttle, assume it’s just the tram ride. And if you’re unsure, the confirmation details from us will clarify pickup procedure. We aim to make it clear so you’re not left guessing.

Question 2

What is the cheapest way to rent a car at MIA?

Accepted Answer

To get the cheapest rate at Miami Airport, here are a few tips: Book in advance, last-minute rentals in Miami can surge in price, especially around holidays or big events. Use our site to compare multiple companies, sometimes a smaller or less-known brand might have a great deal. Look at different car categories; if you don’t need a big car, economy and compact cars are usually the cheapest (often advertised from ~$19/day in low season). Watch for special offers, Miami rentals sometimes come with perks like a free additional driver or a discount if you rent 5+ days. Also, consider the timing: Miami’s high season is winter (when snowbirds come down) and major event weeks, so prices are higher then. Summer can actually be cheaper (it’s hotter and more humid, so slightly fewer tourists). If your trip is off-peak, you’ll likely snag a better deal. Lastly, avoid add-ons you don’t need: things like GPS (you can use your smartphone) or insurance you already have coverage for. And return the car full of gas to avoid refueling fees. By planning smartly, you can truly get a great bargain on a Miami car rental. We regularly see happy customers getting cars well under the average price by using these strategies.

Question 3

How long does it take to drive from Miami Airport to South Beach or downtown?

Accepted Answer

The drive from MIA to Downtown Miami is about 7-8 miles and typically takes around 15-20 minutes without heavy traffic. To South Beach (Miami Beach), it’s roughly 12-15 miles depending on your route, and can take about 20-30 minutes in good traffic. However, timing is everything in Miami. Mid-day or late at night, you’ll likely hit those lower estimates. During rush hour or a busy weekend, downtown could take 30+ minutes, and South Beach could take 45 minutes or more. The usual route to South Beach is via SR 112 East (Airport Expressway) which turns into I-195 and then the Julia Tuttle Causeway. That route has tolls and can back up. An alternative is SR 836 East (Dolphin Expressway) to I-95 North, then I-395 East over the MacArthur Causeway, also toll and traffic prone but sometimes better. Check your GPS for real-time updates. If you’re heading out during a peak time, give yourself extra time and enjoy the views of the skyline and bay on the way. One perk: both causeway routes to Miami Beach are pretty scenic, so even if it’s slow, it’s not an ugly drive!

Question 4

Which car rental companies are at Miami International Airport?

Accepted Answer

Virtually all major rental companies are present at MIA’s Rental Car Center. This includes big brands like Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty, as well as Sixt, Payless, and FOX. In total, about 15-20 companies have counters there. There are also a few specialty or international brands (for example, Europcar operates via Advantage or similar partners in the US, and ACE/Zoom might be off-site). But if you stick to searching on our site, we’ll show you the main options available. The Rental Car Center was designed to consolidate all these agencies, making comparison and pick-up super convenient. So, you have a wide array of choices, from premium to budget, all in one place at MIA.

Question 5

How do I get to the Rental Car Center from Miami Airport terminals?

Accepted Answer

It’s easy! From your arrival terminal, follow signs for “Rental Car Center” or “MIA Mover.” Miami International has a dedicated train, the MIA Mover, that connects the terminals to the Rental Car Center. After you collect your bags, you’ll take an elevator/escalator up to the MIA Mover station. The train runs continuously (24/7) and takes just a few minutes to reach the Rental Car Center. Once you arrive at the station, you’ll go down into the RCC building where all the rental counters are located on one floor. If you have a lot of luggage, free carts are usually available, and there are elevators and moving walkways to help. In summary: no shuttle bus hassle, the air-conditioned MIA Mover will whisk you straight to your rental car hub.

Question 6

When is peak pricing for car rentals in Miami?

Accepted Answer

Miami’s car rental rates fluctuate with tourist seasons and events. In general, December through April is the high season in South Florida. Visitors flock here to escape winter, and major events like Art Basel (early December), the Miami International Boat Show (Feb), Spring Break (March), and Easter holidays can all spike demand. During these times, prices can be significantly higher it’s not uncommon for a car that’s $30/day in summer to be $50-60/day or more in peak winter. Also, around big events like the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix (May) or Ultra Music Festival (March), you might see local surges. Summer (June–August) is actually Miami’s off-peak for tourism (it’s hot and humid, and hurricane season), so prices often drop you may find great deals, sometimes as low as $20s/day for economy cars. However, do note that if a storm/hurricane is approaching, sometimes people rent cars to evacuate, which can tighten supply briefly. Also, Christmas/New Year’s holiday period is extremely busy (peak of peak season). If you plan to visit then, definitely book early vehicles can sell out and prices only climb as the date approaches. One more peak: Mid-March to early April (Spring Break & Easter) sees families and college students coming in, so minivans and SUVs in particular can get pricey. In summary, peak pricing is during winter high season (Dec-Apr) and around major events; cheapest pricing is typically summer (except around July 4) and fall (except Thanksgiving week maybe). We at AVR keep an eye on these trends and encourage booking as early as possible for high-demand periods often you lock in a better rate and selection. And remember, you can book early with free cancellation on most rentals, so it’s a no-lose scenario. If you’re flexible, consider visiting in shoulder seasons (May, late Sept-Oct) when rates are moderate and weather is still nice.

Question 7

Are there special requirements or deposits for luxury car rentals?

Accepted Answer

Yes, renting a luxury or exotic car often comes with additional requirements beyond a standard rental. If you’re eyeing a high-end vehicle (think Mercedes S-Class, Bentley, Ferrari, etc.), here’s what to expect: Higher deposits: Luxury rentals typically require a much larger security deposit on your credit card. For a premium sedan (say a Mercedes E-Class) at a regular agency, the deposit might be a few hundred dollars more than economy cars. For true exotics (Lamborghini, etc. from specialty companies), you might see $5,000–$10,000 held on your card as a damage deposit. They want to ensure any potential damage or incident can be covered. Comprehensive insurance: You’ll usually need to show proof of sufficient insurance coverage. Many standard personal auto policies or credit card insurances don’t cover exotic cars or those above a certain value. The rental company may require you to buy their super CDW or supplemental liability if your coverage isn’t adequate, which can be pricey. Age & license: As mentioned, typically 25+ (sometimes 30+ for ultra-exotics). They’ll want a valid, clean driving record some places might even do a license check to ensure no recent DUIs or major violations. Mileage limits: Many exotic rentals come with limited miles per day (e.g., 100 miles per day) and charge steep per-mile fees if you go over. So plan your joyrides accordingly. Delivery/Return fees: Some luxury rental outfits offer to deliver the car to your hotel or MIA Airport, sometimes at an extra fee. Check if that’s something you need. Credit card requirements: Often, they’ll require a high-limit credit card (or multiple cards) to secure the deposit. And it usually must be a credit card, not debit. Make sure your card can handle the hold; otherwise, they might not release the car. Handling & usage: Many will give you a quick tutorial on the car’s operation (some exotics have quirks). They’ll also often ask you not to take it to a racetrack or drag racing (sounds obvious, but they’ll say it). Also, some prohibit certain areas e.g., don’t drive a low-slung supercar into the Everglades on a gravel road (common sense: you could damage it). Return condition: With luxury cars, they tend to be pickier on any scuffs or wheel curb rash, etc. Sometimes they even require proof of premium fuel purchase (keep your gas receipts, because if you return a Ferrari and they suspect you put regular gas, they could charge a fee to flush and refill with premium). And definitely return it on time late returns on exotics can incur huge hourly fees because the next renter might be waiting for their special occasion. To sum up, renting a luxury car in Miami can be an amazing experience (there’s nothing like cruising Ocean Drive in a convertible Ferrari!), but it comes with serious financial responsibility. Always read the contract’s fine print. If the idea of a $5k hold and high insurance doesn’t appeal, maybe stick to a standard luxury from a major rental company (like a BMW from Hertz) which will be more straightforward, though still with a bigger deposit than an economy car. And treat the car with respect Miami’s streets are not racetracks (though that temptation at a green light on Biscayne Blvd is real, we know). Enjoy the thrill responsibly!

Question 8

How do Miami tolls work with rental cars?

Accepted Answer

All tolls in Miami (and Florida broadly) are electronic only no cash booths. So when you drive through a toll point, a camera snaps the license plate or a sensor reads a transponder (SunPass). In a rental car, as covered earlier, you generally have two choices: use the rental company’s toll program or pay tolls online after the fact. The rental’s toll program makes it easy you can drive through SunPass lanes and the tolls get charged to your account. You’ll pay the tolls plus the rental’s daily fee for toll service (usually ~$5-15 per rental day you trigger a toll, capped at maybe $20-30 per rental, depending on company). If you don’t opt in and you go through a toll, the bill goes to the rental company via Toll-by-Plate. They will then charge your credit card for the toll plus a hefty admin fee (often $15 per toll or a set fee around $25 it varies). So one $2 toll could end up costing $17 or $27 not great. It’s almost always smarter to opt into the unlimited toll option if you plan to drive around. Note: Some rental companies in Florida automatically enroll you you have to actively decline (and then be sure to avoid toll roads 100%). Double-check at the counter what their policy is. Also, if you have your own SunPass portable transponder and want to use it, it’s possible but tricky most rental agreements forbid tampering with the license plate’s billing. However, if you register the rental’s plate on your personal SunPass account from start to end of rental, you can theoretically avoid the rental’s program. But that’s a bit of a hassle and one slip-up means fees. For simplicity, most just use the rental’s system. Price-wise: The toll program fees do add up if your rental is long, but convenience is key. If you’re here a month and only use a toll road once, maybe you’d rather avoid the program and pay online Florida allows individuals to pay Toll-by-Plate invoices online or by phone within a certain window. But with a rental, you usually won’t get that invoice it goes to the owner (rental co.) first. Some toll agencies offer a way to prepay a rental plate the Central Florida Expressway system does via their “Visitor Toll Pass” program (at MCO airport you can get a temporary transponder). In Miami, not as straightforward. There is a portable device pilot at FLL airport not sure about MIA. Anyway, for most short-term visitors, using the rental company arrangement is easiest. So, practically: drive through the toll lanes marked SunPass or E-PASS, etc. Don’t stop (there’s no one to give money to!). Later, charges will appear. Keep in mind, some express lanes (like 95 Express) are variable tolls those count too. The rental co. just passes through whatever toll rates you incurred. If you have any question, ask at the counter how to work tolls. In Miami-Dade, typical toll roads you may hit: SR-836 (Dolphin) heading west from Miami Beach or downtown toward the airport and suburbs; SR-112 (Airport Expressway) from MIA toward Miami Beach has a toll; Florida’s Turnpike if heading north or south out of Miami; the Don Shula Expressway (874) or Gratigny (924) or Palmetto Express (able) if navigating around. Even some surface streets have toll express lanes (the new I-395 signature bridge will have toll lanes in future). So yeah tolls are hard to avoid unless you strictly use US-1, US-41, and local roads (which can be slow). Therefore, embrace the toll consider it a small price for faster travel and less stress. With AVR, we clearly indicate the toll policy in your rental terms and we aim to keep it as traveler-friendly as possible (no outrageous markups, just the standard fees). Drive happy, those few bucks in tolls often save you sitting in gridlock for an extra hour time you can spend on the beach or enjoying a cafecito instead!

Question 9

Where can I park in South Beach?

Accepted Answer

Parking in South Beach (the southern part of Miami Beach) can be challenging but not impossible. Here are quick pointers: The City of Miami Beach operates several municipal garages, which are your best bet for all-day or overnight parking. Notably: the 7th Street Garage, 13th Street Garage, 16th Street (Anchor) Garage, and the popular 17th Street Garage by the convention center. Rates range roughly $2/hour up to a daily max of around $20-30 depending on garage and season. These are relatively secure and plentiful. For example, the 17th St garage has 1460 spaces and usually has availability except maybe peak Saturday nights. Another famous one is the 1111 Lincoln Road Garage (the one that looks like a piece of art/architecture) open to public, but pricier (up to $15 for 3 hours). Street parking: Throughout South Beach, street parking is metered via PayByPhone app or pay stations. It’s about $4/hour in the busiest zones (South of 23rd St in the Entertainment District). There’s typically a 3-hour limit on street meters during the day. At night, some zones convert to residential permit only. Check the signs carefully many streets near Ocean Dr or Collins have resident-only parking 6pm-7am, meaning you can’t park overnight on the street without a permit or you risk towing. As a rule: if a street sign says “Permit Required” during certain hours, don’t leave your car there at those times. They do tow “immediate and expensive ($150+tow + ticket)”. If you go to the beach, there are some city parking lots by the beach (like at 21st St by the Miami Beach Library, or 10th St by Lummus Park). Those fill early on weekends. Rates are similar to meters, sometimes flat $20 for beach parking lots. Valet: Many hotels and restaurants offer valet if you’re just popping in, but it can be $20-40 each time, so not economical for long stays. Residential areas: If you venture into the neighborhoods (like Flamingo Park area), much is resident-only or has daytime limits for non-residents. They enforce vigorously. If you’re renting an Airbnb or staying at a small hotel without parking, ask them about parking arrangements some provide a guest permit for street parking (rare), or will direct you to the nearest garage. Note: Miami Beach has a program where residents can let guests use a digital permit, but most short-term visitors won’t have that. Safety: South Beach is generally safe, but normal precautions apply. Don’t leave valuables in view (as mentioned). At night in quieter areas, stick to well-lit main streets when walking back to your car. Special events: If you’re coming during something like Art Deco Weekend, Food and Wine Fest, etc., some streets might close and parking gets extra tight. Plan ahead maybe park a bit further (north of 23rd St is usually easier and you can rideshare down). Lastly, parking apps: Miami Beach uses ParkMobile and PayByPhone. Actually, both are accepted (the city often lists PayByPhone zones, but ParkMobile works too in many areas). These let you extend time remotely if you haven’t hit the max very handy when you’re on the beach and your meter is running out. To answer succinctly: you can find parking in South Beach, just expect to pay for it, and never park illegally or in a permit zone they tow without mercy. Using the city garages is the easiest stress-free way a short walk and you’re where you need to be. Enjoy the beach!

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