Car Hire in Des Moines, United States

Familiarize yourself with local driving behaviors to enhance safety and compliance.

If you have a specific vehicle in mind, opt for rentals that guarantee your chosen car type. This ensures that you receive the vehicle you expect, rather than being offered an alternative.

Before returning the vehicle, clarify the return procedures with the rental company. Knowing where to drop off the car and any required inspections can streamline the process.

Ensure that you have a valid driving licence with at least one year of driving experience. If you are a foreign driver travelling to Des Moines, an international driving permit may be required. Remember, hire rates can be higher for drivers under 25 or over 70

When renting a car, understand the fuel policy. A 'Full-to-Full' policy means you return the car with a full tank, while 'Same-to-Same' means you return it with the same level of fuel. Full-to-Full is often more cost-effective.

Knowing where to refuel can prevent running low on gas during your trip.

When renting a car, especially after travelling by train, allocate extra time for pickup to account for possible delays. Most car hire companies offer a 30-60 minute grace period. Sharing your train number can be helpful, but if you're running late, be sure to contact the car hire provider to let them know.

To secure the best rates, book your car hire at least 2 weeks in advance. Generally, December offers the lowest prices for car hires in Des Moines.