Renting a Car For Route 66 for International Travelers Page Hdr

Renting a Car for Route 66 as a Foreign Driver — Complete Guide

Renting a car is the central logistics challenge of a Route 66 road trip for international visitors — and it is much more straightforward than most travelers fear. Millions of international visitors rent cars in the United States every year. There are a few important rules to know in advance, particularly around the International Driving Permit, insurance, and one-way rental fees.

Do You Need an International Driving Permit?

Most major US rental car agencies — Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, National, Budget — will accept a valid driving license from your home country as the primary identification, provided it is in English or accompanied by an official translation. However, several US states technically require an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a supplement for foreign drivers.

An IDP is not a standalone license — it is a translation document accompanying your home country license, recognized in over 150 countries. It is inexpensive and easy to obtain: in the UK, apply through the Post Office or AA (approximately £6); in Australia, through the NRMA or your state’s automobile club.

Recommendation: get an IDP before you travel. It costs very little, eliminates any ambiguity at the rental counter, and provides an official English-language version of your license details for any situation where the original is not in Latin script.

Rental Insurance: What You Need

Loss Damage Waiver (LDW/CDW): covers damage to the rental vehicle. Check whether your travel insurance or credit card provides equivalent coverage before paying for the agency’s policy — many premium credit cards include rental car collision coverage as a cardholder benefit.

Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property. Basic liability is included by law in US rentals, but limits vary.

One-Way Rentals: Chicago to Los Angeles

A one-way rental picking up in Chicago and dropping off in Los Angeles is the natural format for a full Route 66 drive. All major agencies offer this. Be aware of drop fees — typically 00–00 for this route. Book well in advance for better rates and vehicle availability, especially for peak spring and summer travel.

Choosing Your Vehicle

Nearly all US rental cars are automatic transmission — manual is rare and must be specifically requested.
A mid-size sedan or small SUV is most practical for two people with luggage. US rental sizes run larger than European equivalents.
Classic car and convertible rentals are available for sections of the route, particularly in the southwest, through operators like Imagine Lifestyles.
Motorcycle rentals are available in Chicago and Los Angeles through Eagle Rider and others. Route 66 is a legendary motorcycle route.