Car rental in Tennessee

Use the same magic that powers our flight search to find cheap car rentals in Tennessee

Compare car rentals on price, ease of pickup, a fair fuel policy, and more

Find Tennessee car rental deals you can modify or cancel if your plans change

Tennessee car rental at a glance

Most popular providerHertz
Most popular carPremium/Luxury, 4-5 doors
Pick-up points
Cheapest price found
Cheapest month to rentJanuary
Best time to book2 weeks before
To give you an idea of how much renting a car in Tennessee could cost, we've pulled prices from Nashville.

Choose from car rental companies you trust

Find the cheapest time to rent a car in Tennessee

A cheaper month to rent a car in Tennessee is January, when the average cost per day is C$50. If that doesn’t work for you, try searching for another month you’d like to travel in and compare deals today.
To give you an idea of how much renting a car in Tennessee could cost, we've pulled prices from Nashville.

Explore Tennessee

All you need to know about Tennessee

Side of the roadRight
CurrencyUS Dollar
LanguageEnglish
Highway speed limitVaries from state to state
Built-up area speed limitVaries from state to state
Age to rent a car21
The information here is based on our understanding as of January 2024. For the most current and accurate information, it’s recommended to check official government sources.

Car rental in Tennessee: FAQs

You will need insurance to rent a car in Tennessee, but you won't necessarily need "extra" insurance. Different car rental companies offer different insurance policies, so make sure you look at the details when you pick a deal.
To rent a car with most companies in Tennessee, you need to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have extra fees to pay if you are under 25 years old, so make sure you check before you book.
The types of documents you’ll need to rent a car in Tennessee depend on the car rental company you go with. But in general, you will need a valid driver's license, ID, and passport. Once you’ve booked a car rental in Tennessee, you can easily get in touch with your chosen provider to find out.
It’s easy to rent a car in Tennessee. First, you need to decide where in Tennessee you want to pick up your car from.

Once you’ve decided where you want to go, simply enter your dates and search for the best deal for you. Once you’ve found your deal, you’ll be redirected to the provider to book with no extra fees.
You can rent a car for as long as you like, depending on availability. If you know what dates you’re needing wheels for, start searching with Skyscanner today.
You may need a credit card to rent a car in Tennessee. It all depends on which car rental company you choose.
It depends where in Tennessee you want to visit. The most popular place to go is Nashville. On average, it costs C$98 per day to rent a car there. The lowest price we could find is C$47 per day.

Getting the cheapest car rental in Tennessee

Here are some tips to help you score the best prices and hit the road for less.

Where can I hire a car in Tennessee?

You can hire a car across Tennessee in key spots like airports and city centres. Nashville stands out as the most popular location, with 28 hire companies ready to serve you. Book your car directly at Nashville International Airport or at downtown branches for easy access.

For the best pick-up points, look for spots near major highways or your hotel. Book early if you plan to visit during peak times like CMA Fest or football season. Early bookings mean better prices and selection. Consider off-airport locations for possible savings and easier returns.

Which car do people usually rent in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the most popular rental is the full-size SUV. You get extra space for family road trips, outdoor gear, or shopping sprees in Nashville. Full-size SUVs handle both city streets and the winding roads of Great Smoky Mountains National Park with ease.

Many choose this option for comfort, safety, and versatility, especially when exploring scenic routes or travelling with a group.

When is the best time to book a rental car in Tennessee?

Book your rental car in Tennessee about one week before your trip for the best chance at availability and pricing. September often brings moderate demand, especially in Nashville, as summer crowds die down. Prices can jump during busy weekends or special events, so booking ahead helps you avoid last-minute surges.

Early autumn also means comfortable weather, making it a pleasant time to visit. Acting one week before your travel date strikes a good balance between choice and cost.

Top tips for driving in Tennessee

In Tennessee, drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to speed limits: highways 65-75 mph, expressways and country roads 55-70 mph, city streets 15-35 mph. Always slow down near villages, schools, and pedestrian crossings.

Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga are well-connected cities with plenty to explore, from live music and nightlife in Nashville to Memphis’s legendary barbecue and Chattanooga’s outdoor activities. Use GPS for navigation, especially in city centres or when heading into scenic mountain routes. Watch for signs, obey traffic laws, and enjoy the journey across the United States heartland.

What are the most popular car hire providers in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the most popular car hire providers are Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Hertz, Alamo, and Dollar. Availability and popularity can vary depending on the city or airport. Most major airports and downtown locations offer these brands.

Choose Hertz or Avis for a wide selection and loyalty programs. Budget and Thrifty often have competitive rates, while Alamo is a frequent pick for family trips. Dollar appeals to those seeking affordable daily rentals.