Rent a Car in Montreal, Canada With Competitive Rates and Clear, Practical Guidance

Compare airport and downtown pickup options, understand insurance and fees, and choose the best location for your trip—so you can book confidently and drive Montreal on your schedule.

Guide du terminal

Exigences

Guide des voitures

Offres

Comparer

Conseils de location

Conseils d’expert

Routes populaires

Itinéraires

Infos voyage

FAQ

Récompenses

Updated Travel Essentials

Montreal Car Rental Guide: Where to Pick Up and What to Expect

Renting a car in Montreal is a convenient way to explore beyond the city center—think day trips to the Laurentians, Mont-Tremblant, Quebec City, Eastern Townships, or Ottawa—without relying on fixed train and bus schedules. Within central Montreal, public transit is strong and driving can be slower due to congestion, frequent construction, and paid street parking, so many travelers prefer to pick up a car only when they’re ready to leave the core. Expect Canadian-style rental policies: taxes and surcharges can add noticeably to the base rate, tolls are mostly avoidable in Quebec (many routes are toll-free), and winter driving requirements can affect vehicle availability and pricing in colder months. If you’re traveling from abroad, confirm your driver’s license validity in Quebec and consider an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English or French. For the smoothest experience, book in advance during summer weekends and winter holiday periods, choose a fuel policy you can follow (usually full-to-full), and review optional add-ons like additional drivers, child seats, and roadside assistance for their daily costs.

+ plus

Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL) Rental Car Center

Best for immediate mobility after landing and for early/late flights. Major brands operate at YUL with extended hours and a wide vehicle mix (economy to SUVs). Pros: fast access to highways, strong inventory, easier returns for departures. Cons: airport surcharges and higher total cost, potential lines at peak times, and you may pay for parking while you’re still staying downtown.

Downtown Core (René-Lévesque Blvd / Peel–Guy-Concordia Area)

Convenient if you’re staying in central hotels and only want a car for part of your trip. Pros: avoid airport fees, pick up right before a road trip, easier to stay car-free while sightseeing. Cons: limited hours on weekends/holidays, tighter vehicle availability, and downtown traffic/parking can make pickup and return slower.

Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal) Near the Waterfront

Good for travelers based in the historic district. Pros: walkable access from many boutique hotels and attractions. Cons: narrow streets, heavier pedestrian traffic, and parking constraints can make logistics tricky—plan extra time for pickup/return.

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De quoi avez-vous besoin pour louer une voiture à Montreal ?

Louer une voiture à Montreal est assez pratique, mais il peut y avoir certaines exigences spécifiques, notamment pour les conducteurs étrangers.

Forme d'identité : A valid physical Canada national photo ID is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
Permis de conduire : The main and any additional drivers must present a full physical Canadian driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence must typically have been held for at least 1 year; for some offers a minimum of 2 years or a range of 1–2 years applies. Where not specified, refer to the full rental terms for the exact minimum holding period.
Remarques : In some offers, the minimum licence holding period is 2 years or 1–2 years; if not clearly defined, you must check the full Rental Terms & Conditions (driving licence section) or contact customer service.
Cartes acceptées : Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted networks (depending on the specific offer) include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, and JCB. Debit cards are not accepted as primary payment or deposit methods. Some offers only accept selected networks (e.g., no Discover or JCB); check your voucher for the exact accepted cards.
Exigences d'âge : Standard driving age limits across offers range approximately from 20–25 years minimum to 74–99 years maximum, depending on location and vehicle category. Many offers require drivers to be at least 21 or 25, with upper limits commonly 74, 80, or 99. Young driver surcharges apply on several offers: e.g., ages 20–24 may be charged about CAD 10.97–29.26 per day; ages 21–24/25 may be charged about CAD 18.28–18.29 per day; some U.S. offers charge about USD 35.00 per day for ages 21–24. Additional drivers often must be at least 25 years old. In multiple offers, young drivers (typically 20/21–24) are not permitted to rent luxury cars, mini‑vans, 12‑passenger vans, specialty cars, and certain SUV categories. Exact age limits, applicable fees, and restricted vehicle categories depend on the specific rental offer and should be confirmed in the rental conditions.

Permis de conduire : Accepted driving licence include:
• Original Driver's License in Latin/Roman alphabet (e.g., English, French, German, Italian, Spanish) without major endorsements, typically held for at least 1 year (some offers require 2 years); licences in non‑Roman alphabet must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP),
or
• Original driving licence plus International Driving Permit (IDP); the IDP is only a translation, and the original licence must be presented; photocopies or scans are not accepted,
or
• Original South Korea Driving License (English version) with English translation provided on the back. Licence holding period is generally at least 1 year; some offers require 2 years or 1–2 years. If not specified, refer to full rental terms for the exact minimum holding period.
Remarques : Driver’s licence may be checked for validity and can require authentication via a 365id scanner for some offers. Where the minimum licence holding time is not clearly specified, you must refer to the full Rental Terms & Conditions (driving licence section) or contact customer service. IDP requirements differ by offer: some accept Roman‑alphabet licences without IDP, while others mandate an IDP plus the original licence.
Forme d'identité : A valid passport is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
Cartes acceptées : Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted networks vary by offer but may include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, and JCB. Some offers accept only certain networks (e.g., no Discover/JCB or no Discover/Diners). Debit cards are not accepted as primary payment or deposit methods. Check your voucher for exact accepted cards at your location.
Exigences d'âge : Standard driving age limits across offers range approximately from 20–25 years minimum to 74–99 years maximum, depending on location and vehicle category. Many offers require drivers to be at least 21 or 25, with upper limits commonly 74, 80, or 99. Young driver surcharges apply on several offers: e.g., ages 20–24 may be charged about CAD 10.97–29.26 per day; ages 21–24/25 may be charged about CAD 18.28–18.29 per day; some U.S. offers charge about USD 35.00 per day for ages 21–24. Additional drivers often must be at least 25 years old. In multiple offers, young drivers (typically 20/21–24) are not permitted to rent luxury cars, mini‑vans, 12‑passenger vans, specialty cars, and certain SUV categories. Exact age limits, applicable fees, and restricted vehicle categories depend on the specific rental offer and should be confirmed in the rental conditions.

Choisissez votre véhicule

Trouvez le véhicule parfait pour votre voyage. Comparez les options ci-dessous.

Airport (YUL)

Downtown Montreal

Why Choose Airport Pickup at Montréal–Trudeau (YUL)

Airport pickup is ideal if you want to start driving right away, need a broader selection (including SUVs in winter), or plan to leave Montreal immediately. YUL typically offers longer operating hours, simpler returns for departures, and more consistent availability—but total costs can be higher due to airport-related surcharges and demand.

City SmartSmall

Montreal Car Rental Reviews: See Real Ratings at YUL

Read authentic reviews from real travelers who picked up their rental cars at Montreal airports and stations. Make informed decisions before you book.

Agence de location	Évaluation	Tarif moyen par jour	Méthode / distance de prise en charge	Dépôt de garantie	Avantages clés
Budget Friendly	3.3 5300+ reviews	$25	Shuttle bus	$1,098	●Friendly and professional staff ●Competitive rental rates ●Quick pickup and return
Budget Friendly	2.1 3300+ reviews	$69	Free shuttle bus	$370 - $533	●Quick and easy pickup ●Free upgrades when available ●Lower prices than competitors
	2.0 10 reviews	$363	0.3 mi	$470 - $2,852	●Wide car selection ●Great value rates ●Convenient pick-up locations
	1.9 3,600+ reviews	$69	In terminal, Walk to counter	$364 - $545	●Quick and easy pickup ●Friendly staff available ●Free car upgrades offered
	1.6 45 reviews	$150	0.2 mi	Dépôt de garantie réduit	●Fast pickup process available ●Friendly and helpful staff ●Clean and reliable vehicles
	1.4 3900+ reviews	$37	Call for pick-up	$1,098	●Fast pickup available ●Clean vehicles offered ●Helpful staff at select locations
	1.2 5500+ reviews	$170	0.2 mi	$255 - $549	●Competitive base rates ●Wide global availability ●Loyalty program benefits

*Les évaluations et les avis proviennent de Trustpilot. Les détails de la police peuvent varier selon le lieu et le type de véhicule. Veuillez confirmer au moment de la réservation.

Source de données: Location de voitures QEEQ

Dernière mise à jour: Jun. 14 2026

Essentiel Location Hub

Tout ce que vous devez savoir avant de prendre la route. Sélectionnez un sujet pour en obtenir tous les détails.

A Renter's Guide to Car Accidents in Canada

This guide provides essential steps for renters involved in car accidents in Canada, including safety measures, documentation, and insurance claims. Learn how to navigate the process smoothly.

Voir les détails

First-Timer's Guide to Fueling in Canada

This guide provides essential tips for first-time visitors to Canada on how to confidently fuel their rental cars, including payment methods, fuel types, and step-by-step instructions.

Voir les détails

Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Hidden Car Rental Fees in Montreal

Discover how to navigate Montreal's car rental landscape, avoid hidden fees, and ensure a smooth rental experience with insider tips on insurance, mileage limits, and more.

Voir les détails

Montreal Car Rental Insurance: How to Avoid C?,000+ Bills

Definitive guide to Montreal car rental insurance explaining Quebec's SAAQ bodily-injury-only coverage and the major property gap. Compare rental-counter CDW/LDW vs. QEEQ third-party zero-deductible plans, real case studies, and a step-by-step checklist to avoid catastrophic bills.

Voir les détails

Montreal Car Rental Toll Guide - How to Avoid 407 Fees and Pay A30 Online

Guide for Montreal car renters: which roads are tolled, why Montreal is mostly toll free, how to pay A30 online to avoid rental fees, why to avoid the 407 ETR, rental counter checklist and dispute tips

Voir les détails

Aperçu de la plateforme

Car Rental Expert Advice

By QEEQ Platform Expert Team

Indicateurs d’expertise

Reconnaissance de la plateforme

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voiture d’Asie 2023 & 2024

Volume de réservations

Qualité des avis

Plus de 10 000 avis vérifiés 5 étoiles

Expérience sur le marché

Autorité des données

Vérification d’expertise

Données QEEQ vérifiées auprès des sources de données officielles locales

Informations clés d’expert

Analyse de la plateforme

"Montreal Airport (YUL) dominates with 58% of regional rentals, downtown captures 27%, airport pickups surged 12% YoY in 2024."

Modèles de réservation

"SUV bookings jumped 24% in 2024 (42% share), summer peaks drive 52% of bookings, average rental duration 4.5 days (up 10%)."

Points de douleur des clients

"43% of Quebec renters report confusion over insurance coverage options, 31% cite unexpected damage waiver and hidden fee charges."

Sources de données

Base de données interne de réservation QEEQ
Aéroports de Montréal - Ground Transportation Report
Aéroports de Montréal - Ground Transportation Report
Quebec Tourism - Visitor Statistics

Road trips

One-way rental routes starting from Montreal

Plan your ultimate road trip with these popular one-way routes departing from Montreal

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$285.00

Popular Driving Routes & Road Trips From Montreal

Top Scenic Routes:

Montreal → Quebec City (Autoroute 20 / Chemin du Roy Option)

City-to-city classic2 hr 45 min–3 hr 30 min (one way, depending on traffic and stops)

A straightforward, year-round drive to Quebec City. Take A-20 for speed, or detour onto the historic Chemin du Roy (Route 138) for riverside villages, viewpoints, and a slower, more scenic pace.

Trois-Rivières, Cap-Santé, Portneuf, Chute Montmorency, Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec)

Montreal → Mont-Tremblant & Laurentians Loop

Mountain & lake scenic loop1 hr 30 min–2 hr 15 min to Mont-Tremblant (one way); 4–6 hr total with loop stops

A favorite four-season escape into the Laurentians for village vibes, lake views, and outdoor activities. Ideal for leaf-peeping in fall, skiing in winter, and hiking/cycling in summer.

Saint-Sauveur, Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, Mont-Tremblant Pedestrian Village, Lac Tremblant, Val-David

Montreal → Eastern Townships Wine & Village Drive (Estrie)

Countryside culinary route1 hr 30 min–2 hr 30 min to core towns; 5–8 hr total with tastings and stops

A relaxed drive through the Eastern Townships with charming main streets, lakes, and local farms. Great for café hopping, vineyard visits, and scenic backroads (especially in late summer and fall).

Magog, Parc national du Mont-Orford, North Hatley, Knowlton (Lac-Brome), Sutton

Popular Day Trips & Weekend Getaways:

Ottawa Day Trip (Parliament Hill & Museums)

2 hr–2 hr 30 min each way; best as a full-day trip

Drive to Canada’s capital for national museums, riverside walks, and the historic core around Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market.

Quebec City Old Town Weekend

2–3 days recommended; 2 hr 45 min–3 hr 30 min each way

A compact, walkable historic city with iconic streets, fortified walls, and standout food. Perfect for a first-time Quebec road trip.

Mont-Tremblant Outdoor Escape

Day trip or 1–2 nights; 1 hr 30 min–2 hr 15 min each way

An easy getaway for hiking, gondola views, lake activities, and a lively pedestrian village with restaurants and shops.

Eastern Townships (Magog–Orford–North Hatley) Day Trip

Full day; 1 hr 30 min–2 hr 15 min each way depending on stops

A scenic day in Estrie combining lakefront views in Magog, short hikes in Mont-Orford, and storybook streets in North Hatley.

Car Rental Planning Tips (Montreal & Quebec)

Check license and ID requirements: Bring your valid driver’s license and passport/ID. If your license isn’t in English or French, consider an International Driving Permit as a helpful companion document.

Understand deposits and credit card rules: Most major agencies prefer a credit card for the security deposit. Confirm hold amounts in advance, especially for SUVs, premium cars, or one-way rentals.

Choose coverage intentionally: Review collision damage and liability options, and check whether your credit card or personal auto policy covers rentals in Canada. Document the car’s condition with photos at pickup.

Plan for tolls, bridges, and parking: Montreal area driving is mostly toll-free, but parking can be pricey downtown. Use hotel parking when available and confirm if your destination has overnight parking restrictions.

Fuel up before returning and keep receipts: Agency refueling fees are often high. Fill up near the return location and keep the receipt in case there’s any question about the fuel level.

Winter readiness matters: From late fall through early spring, expect snow and ice. Request proper winter tires when traveling outside the city and give yourself extra braking distance and time.

Avoid peak traffic windows when possible: Rush hours can significantly extend travel time. If you’re leaving Montreal for a day trip, departing mid-morning and returning after dinner often saves time.

YUL Airport (YUL): Your Gateway to Montreal

Explore the stunning city in comfort with your rental car from YUL Airport (YUL)

LANGUES

English, French

DEVISE

CAD

ROULEZ

Right-hand side

CODE PAYS

PRIX MOYEN DE LOCATION DE VOITURE

$57 per day

DURÉE MOYENNE DE LOCATION DE VOITURE

7 days

LIMITATION DE VITESSE EN AGGLOMÉRATION

50 km/h

LIMITATION DE VITESSE HORS AGGLOMÉRATION

80-100 km/h

TAUX D’ALCOOLÉMIE LÉGALEMENT AUTORISÉ

0.08%

PRIX MOYEN DU CARBURANT

$1.36/L

PRIX DU CARBURANT LE PLUS BAS / LE PLUS ÉLEVÉ

$1.20/L - $1.50/L

Montreal Car Rental Guide

Essential driving tips and rental FAQ for exploring Montreal and Quebec by car

Can I use my US driver's license to drive in Montreal?

Yes, US driver's licenses are fully valid in Quebec for up to 6 months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not legally required for US citizens. However, an IDP can be helpful when dealing with local authorities or rental agencies, as French-language documentation may be requested. Most major rental companies accept valid US licenses directly.

Do I need snow tires in Montreal winter, and are they included with rentals?

Yes, winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from December 15 to March 15. If you're renting between these dates, the vehicle will automatically come equipped with winter tires—this is legally required, not an optional upgrade. Budget an extra $15-25 CAD per day if renting outside the mandatory period and you want added safety on icy roads. Never attempt to drive without proper tires during Montreal's heavy snowfalls, which can drop 30+ cm in a single storm.

How do I pay for highway tolls in Montreal?

Quebec uses electronic toll collection via the Áoto route system. If you're renting, the transponder is usually built into the vehicle or provided as an add-on ($7-10 CAD/day). Tolls are automatically charged to your rental agreement—you'll pay the actual toll cost plus a small admin fee. The Jacques Cartier Bridge and A25 tunnel both have tolls (around $4-7 CAD per crossing). Cash is not accepted at most tolls, so transponder access is essential.

I'm 22—will I pay a young driver surcharge to rent in Montreal?

Yes, drivers under 25 typically face a young driver surcharge of $20-35 CAD per day at major agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget. Some boutique local agencies may be more flexible. The minimum age is generally 21 with this surcharge, though some premium vehicles require drivers to be 25+. Book early and compare agencies, as rates vary significantly—Alamo and National tend to have slightly lower young driver fees than premium brands.

Is parking in downtown Montreal expensive?

Very much so. Street parking costs $3-4 CAD/hour in central areas like Old Montreal and the Golden Square Mile. Underground garages run $25-40 CAD/day, which is often better value than street meters for full-day visits. Look for hotels with parking packages if staying downtown. Avoid parking in construction zones or without paying meters—towing fees start at $150 CAD and tickets run $40-80 CAD.

What side of the road do they drive on in Montreal, and are there any tricky traffic rules?

Montreal drives on the right side, same as the US. Right turn on red is permitted after a full stop unless posted otherwise—unlike some US states where it's prohibited. Quebec uses more roundabouts than typical North American cities; always yield to vehicles already in the circle. Speed limits are posted in km/h (max 100 km/h on highways, 50 km/h in urban areas). Watch for photo radar in school zones and construction areas.

Prix de la plateforme QEEQ

Reconnue mondialement pour l’excellence de ses services de réservation de location de voiture et la satisfaction de sa clientèle.

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2025

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures en Asie 2024

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2023

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2022

Meilleur Prix Partenaire Commercial d'ABG 2023 & 2024

Prix d’Excellence en Affaires 2024

Les Magellan Awards dans la catégorie des services de location de voiture

Les Travolution Awards du Meilleur Service sur la Route

Recommandé par nos clients

Plébiscité par des clients du monde entier, et nous travaillons en permanence à nous améliorer.

Rent a Car in Montreal, Canada With Competitive Rates and Clear, Practical Guidance

De quoi avez-vous besoin pour louer une voiture à Montreal ?

Best Rental Cars for Exploring Montreal & Beyond

SUV

Small

Premium

Choisissez votre véhicule

Why Choose Airport Pickup at Montréal–Trudeau (YUL)

Nissan Sentra

Nissan Sentra

Nissan Sentra

Nissan Kicks

Nissan Kicks

Nissan Kicks

Polestar 2

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Montreal Car Rental Reviews: See Real Ratings at YUL

Car Rental Expert Advice

Indicateurs d’expertise

Reconnaissance de la plateforme

Volume de réservations

Qualité des avis

Expérience sur le marché

Autorité des données

Vérification d’expertise

Informations clés d’expert

Analyse de la plateforme

Modèles de réservation

Points de douleur des clients

Sources de données

One-way rental routes starting from Montreal

Popular Driving Routes & Road Trips From Montreal

Top Scenic Routes:

Montreal → Quebec City (Autoroute 20 / Chemin du Roy Option)

Montreal → Mont-Tremblant & Laurentians Loop

Montreal → Eastern Townships Wine & Village Drive (Estrie)

Popular Day Trips & Weekend Getaways:

Ottawa Day Trip (Parliament Hill & Museums)

Quebec City Old Town Weekend

Mont-Tremblant Outdoor Escape

Eastern Townships (Magog–Orford–North Hatley) Day Trip

Car Rental Planning Tips (Montreal & Quebec)

YUL Airport (YUL): Your Gateway to Montreal

Montreal Car Rental Guide

Prix de la plateforme QEEQ

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2025

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures en Asie 2024

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2023

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2022

Meilleur Prix Partenaire Commercial d'ABG 2023 & 2024

Prix d’Excellence en Affaires 2024

Les Magellan Awards dans la catégorie des services de location de voiture

Les Travolution Awards du Meilleur Service sur la Route

Recommandé par nos clients