How to Rent a Car From a Toyota Dealer
The Rent a Toyota program works much like a traditional rental agency but has a few limitations.
Toyota
QuickTakes:
Ever wondered if it's possible to rent a car from a dealership?
If you're a fan of Toyota vehicles, the company's Rent a Toyota program could be a great option for you. It allows you to drive new models from the automaker.
Rent a Toyota Can Put You Behind the Wheel of a New Toyota
Toyota claims its rates are competitive with those of other rental agencies, but it's worth shopping around to confirm. As a point of reference, a search of rates in Charlotte, North Carolina, for dates in mid-April 2024 found a daily price of about $50 for a Camry, while a Tacoma would run you about $75 per day. Rates will vary by location.
Cars offered through the program are in rental service for just four months, so you'll always be driving a low-mileage, current model. And if you fall in love with it, you might be able to buy it. Vehicles used in the program are available for purchase after their brief stints as rentals.
Booking a Toyota Rental Car Can Be Done via an App
There are several ways to book through Rent a Toyota, all of them relatively straightforward.
If you're using a mobile device, you can download the Toyota app, available on the App Store or Google Play store, where you'll find a Rent a Toyota option. From there, you'll be prompted to select a participating dealer in your area, choose your dates for pickup and drop-off, and select the vehicle you'd like to rent.
At that point, you'll be taken to a reservation confirmation page that details where you'll pick up your vehicle and provides a breakdown of your costs. There's also a spot for adding in the driver's name, license number, and insurance information. The app allows you to change or modify your rental prior to pickup within certain limitations.
If you don't want to download the app, you can go to the Rent a Toyota site. After you type in your ZIP code, you'll see a list of dealers in your area that offer rentals. From there, you'll have the same options as in the app.
If you prefer to work with a human, some dealers offer in-person reservations, but it's best to check ahead of time with the rental dealers in your area.
Toyota Rental Cars Come With Some Restrictions
While renting from Toyota is simple, there are a few limitations. Vehicles must be picked up and dropped off at the same location, drivers must be at least 21 years old and have their own insurance, and the rental program is restricted to the contiguous U.S., Alaska, and Canada. Cars may not be driven into Mexico.
It's also important to note that rental services, including pickup and drop-off, typically are available only during the dealership's normal business hours. If you need other accommodations, you should consult the dealership before you book.
