Arriving at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago is a great start to your journey. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, from choosing a car to understanding local driving conditions.
Most car rental companies have counters directly at the airport. They are usually located in designated areas, accessible from the terminals via free shuttles or on foot. Pay attention to signs within the airport to find the correct direction. Some companies may have offices outside the airport premises, but they usually offer transfers to/from the airport.
O'Hare Airport features many well-known car rental companies. You can usually find offers from companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Alamo. The choice of vehicles is very wide, from economy to premium class.
Here are some popular options often chosen by travelers:
| Economy | 20 – 35 EUR |
| Compact | 25 – 45 EUR |
| Mid-Size | 35 – 60 EUR |
| SUV | 50 – 80 EUR |
| Minivan | 60 – 100 EUR |
| Premium | 80+ EUR |
Prices may vary depending on the season and availability.
To rent a car, you will need a valid driver's license, passport, and credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21 or 25 years old, but some companies may charge an additional fee for younger drivers. Upon receiving the vehicle, you will likely be asked for a deposit, which will be returned after returning the car in good condition. The deposit will be blocked on your credit card.
When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the vehicle resulting from a collision. TAF (Theft Protection) protects against theft. SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance) increases the limit of your liability to third parties. Carefully review the insurance terms and ask the company representative what each policy covers. Check if your bank product or credit card does not provide automatic rental car insurance.
In the United States, traffic is right-hand. The speed limit is usually 55-70 miles per hour (approximately 90-113 km/h) on highways and 30-50 miles per hour (approximately 50-80 km/h) in cities. Many roads are toll roads, so be prepared to pay at toll booths or use electronic payment systems. Parking in cities can be expensive, so pay attention to signs and rates. Always wear seat belts and follow traffic rules.
Driver's license, passport and credit card in the driver's name.
Usually 21 or 25 years old, but there may be an additional fee for younger drivers.
CDW covers damage to the car in the event of a collision. The need depends on your insurance.
The deposit is blocked on your credit card and returned after returning the car.
Usually a credit card is required, but some companies may accept debit cards under certain conditions.
Yes, many roads in the USA are toll roads. You can pay with cash or use electronic systems.
Usually 55-70 miles/hour on highways and 30-50 miles/hour in cities.
Pay attention to parking signs and rates in cities.
Come to the company counter with your booking confirmation and necessary documents.
Yes, but there may be an additional fee for this (one-way fee).
Definitely! Check for any damage and record it in the acceptance-transfer act.