Car Hire Orlando MCO

Question

Hello everyone. We are from the UK and looking to rent a car at Orlando MCO. We havent been in 7 years so has anyone been recently and been asked to produce an Internationl Drivers Permit when picking up the car? My licence is a full UK licence and the photo card. Many thanks.

Answer

Renting a car at Orlando International Airport (MCO) as a visitor from the UK is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be aware of the documentation requirements to avoid surprises.

Driver’s License Requirements

For UK visitors, most major car rental companies in Orlando accept a full, valid UK driver’s license. The photo card license is fine. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can sometimes be requested, especially if your license is not in English or if the rental company has stricter policies.

Most UK licences are in English, so an IDP is not always mandatory, but it can help in case of questions from the rental company or traffic authorities.
Check the car rental company’s website or contact them directly; policies can vary between companies (e.g., Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget).
Keep your passport handy — rental agents often ask for an additional form of photo ID.

Other Rental Tips

Credit card: A major credit card in the main driver’s name is typically required for deposit purposes.
Insurance: You can often use your UK car insurance or purchase the rental company’s coverage. Check if your credit card offers coverage as well.
Age restrictions: Some rental companies require drivers to be 21+, and there may be a young driver surcharge for drivers under 25.
Traffic rules: Remember that driving is on the right side in the U.S., and toll roads may require either cash or a pre-paid toll pass.

Summary

You should be able to rent a car at MCO with your UK photo card license. While an IDP is not strictly necessary if your license is in English, carrying one can provide extra security. Always check the specific rental company’s requirements ahead of time and bring your passport and credit card to ensure a smooth pickup.