Yes, you can generally take a Budget rental car out of state. This is known as a one-way rental or cross-state travel. However, it's not an unlimited privilege and is subject to specific rules, fees, and availability that you must confirm before booking. The key is to get explicit permission from Budget during the reservation process.
The most straightforward way to do this is by booking a one-way rental, where you pick up the car in one state and drop it off at a different Budget location in another. This service incurs a "drop fee" or one-way fee, which can be substantial, often ranging from $100 to over $500, depending on the distance and demand. You must specify the different pickup and drop-off locations when making your reservation online or by phone.
If you plan to return the car to the original location after an out-of-state trip, you must check for geographical restrictions. Some rental agreements, particularly for certain car classes or discounted rates, may limit travel to within the state or a specific radius. Violating this can void your insurance coverage. Always review your rental agreement for a section titled "Permitted Area of Use" or similar.
| Consideration | Key Details | Why It Matters |
|---|
| One-Way Rental | Must be specified at booking; subject to drop fees and vehicle availability at the destination. | The only guaranteed method for a different drop-off state. |
| Cross-State Permission | Often granted for round trips, but you must inform Budget; may require a higher rental age. | Prevents potential violations of your rental contract. |
| Geographical Restrictions | Common with younger renters (under 25), specific promotions, or luxury/SUV vehicle classes. | Driving into restricted areas (e.g., Mexico, Canada without permission, off-road) can lead to serious penalties. |
| Insurance Coverage | Your liability and damage waiver coverage typically remain valid in all 50 states. | Confirm that your protection extends to your entire planned route. |
| Toll Charges | If using an electronic toll pass, Budget will charge administrative fees for each toll incurred. | Using your own transponder (like E-ZPass) can be more cost-effective. |
The essential step is transparency. Call the specific Budget location where you plan to pick up the car and verbally confirm your travel plans. This ensures there are no surprises and that your rental is fully covered for the journey you intend to make.
