Yes, you can rent a manual transmission car, but it is increasingly difficult and requires proactive planning. Major rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis primarily stock automatic transmissions due to high customer demand in the United States. Your best chance is through specialty car rental services, exotic car dealers, or local independent agencies, particularly in regions known for scenic driving, like California or Florida. Be prepared for a limited selection, potentially higher costs, and the necessity to book well in advance.
The primary challenge is availability. To find a manual car, you'll likely need to look beyond airport rental counters. Services like Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing app, are often the most reliable sources. On Turo, private owners list their personal vehicles, which includes a much higher proportion of manual transmission models, from economy cars to sports cars.
Cost is another significant factor. If you find a manual car from a traditional agency, it may be classified as a "specialty" vehicle, commanding a higher daily rate. On Turo, the price is set by the owner and can vary widely. You must also be absolutely confident in your ability to drive a manual, or stick shift. Rental companies will not provide instruction, and any damage caused by improper operation, known as "clutch burn," will be your financial responsibility.
Here’s a quick comparison of potential avenues:
| Rental Source | Typical Availability | Cost Comparison | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Major Rental Companies (Hertz, Enterprise) | Very Low | Potentially higher if found | Almost exclusively at non-airport locations; must call directly. |
| Peer-to-Peer Apps (Turo) | Moderate to Good | Varies by owner/vehicle | Read owner reviews carefully; understand insurance coverage. |
| Exotic/Sports Car Rental | Good (for performance cars) | High | Geared towards luxury experiences; requires credit card hold. |
| Local/Independent Agencies | Varies | Competitive | Often found in tourist areas; best to research online and call. |
Before booking, always call the specific rental location to confirm the vehicle and its transmission type. Do not rely solely on website filters, as inventory can be inaccurate. Your search will be much more successful if you are flexible with the car model and prioritize the driving experience over specific features.
