Yes, you can typically rent a car in Canada and return it in the United States, but it is not a universally available option and often comes with significant restrictions and fees. This service, known as a one-way international rental, is primarily offered by major global rental companies. The most critical factor is securing this arrangement at the time of booking, as dropping a Canadian-plated vehicle at a US location without prior authorization is strictly prohibited.
The single biggest consideration is the one-way drop fee, which can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars. This fee compensates the rental company for the cost of returning the vehicle to its original country. Availability is also not guaranteed between all locations; it's most common for cross-border trips between major cities and their corresponding rental hubs (e.g., Vancouver to Seattle, Toronto to Buffalo).
Necessary Documentation:
Beyond your standard driver's license and credit card, you will need your passport and must comply with all standard US entry requirements. The rental agreement, or vehicle licensing and registration, must be kept in the car when crossing the border, as US Customs and Border Protection officers will request it.
Insurance Considerations:
Your Canadian rental insurance may not provide full coverage in the US. It is essential to verify with the rental agent that your Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) and Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) are valid for the entire US portion of your trip. Purchasing the rental company's supplemental insurance is often the most straightforward way to ensure you are fully covered.
The table below compares the general policies of major rental companies for Canada-to-US one-way rentals. Always confirm directly with the company, as policies can change and vary by specific location.
| Rental Company | One-Way US Rental Generally Available? | Key Restrictions & Notes | Estimated Drop Fee Range (USD) |
|---|
| Enterprise | Yes, but limited | Must be booked as US rental; specific Canada locations only. | $250 - $1,000+ |
| Hertz | Yes, but limited | Pre-paid rates often required; not all vehicle classes eligible. | $300 - $1,200+ |
| Avis | Yes, but limited | Advance booking mandatory; subject to vehicle availability. | $275 - $1,100+ |
| Budget | Yes, but limited | Often mirrors Avis policy; check with location directly. | $250 - $1,000+ |
| National | Yes, but limited | Primarily for Emerald Club members; higher vehicle classes. | $400 - $1,500+ |
The key to a smooth experience is planning far in advance. Use the rental company's website and explicitly search for a one-way rental from your specific Canadian pickup city to your desired US drop-off city. If the system allows you to book it, you're on the right track, but a follow-up call to the pickup location to confirm all details is highly recommended.
