Car rental Durham, NC
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Rental cars in Durham, NC
Rent a car in Durham on Turo
Car rental in Durham on Turo is your golden ticket to exploring this dynamic North Carolina city with ease. Whether you're swinging by Duke University, sampling soul food at V's Kitchen, or trekking out to the Eno River trails, on Turo, you can browse a diverse selection of rental cars, set your own itinerary, and cruise on your own terms. Instead of settling for traditional car rental companies, why not treat yourself to a great driving experience and discover every corner of the city at your own pace?
Known as the "City of Medicine," Durham is a hub of culture, innovation, and history, blending its scholarly roots with a vibrant food and music scene. Roll into downtown Durham for live jazz at a cozy lounge like the Sharp 9 Gallery, explore the eclectic shops near Ninth Street, or treat yourself to a farm-to-table feast near Roxboro Street. With a rental car on Turo, you're not tied to public transport or rigid schedules — just pick the perfect car, set your own itinerary, and discover every corner of the city at your own pace.
Durham, NC car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car in Durham is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Durham, North Carolina and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and location in Durham, NC (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car nearby or get one delivered to various destinations, including many airports, train stations, hotels, or maybe even your home.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Durham, NC! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Recent reviews
Lynnwood was easy to work with, the car is fun and clean and the delivery to our address was an extra bonus.
The car was just as advertised, pickup and drop off was super smooth and easy.
Everything was perfect and the car was awesome, I will definitely rent again!
The car was clean and reliable, any time I had a question or needed to reach out, he responded quickly and was very friendly and helpful.
i enjoyed my first experience with turo. the car was really nice and clean i would definitely book with Ed again!
Rent a car and explore Durham, NC
Things to do and places to see in Durham, NC
History, innovation, and Southern charm — these are just some of the things you'll find in Durham. Whether you're here to learn about this city's rich civil rights history and check out its world-class universities or award-winning food scene, there's always something to explore in the fourth-most populous city in North Carolina. From hands-on science exhibits to stunning botanical gardens, here are a few to look out for in Durham.
Rent the perfect carDurham Bulls Athletic Park
Even if you're not a die-hard baseball fan, catching a game at the 10,000-seater Durham Bulls Athletic Park is a must. Home to the Durham Bulls, Duke Blue Devils, and North Carolina Central Eagles, this stadium offers an electric atmosphere, affordable tickets, and classic ballpark eats. Sit along the third baseline (arguably the best seats), chow down on a local favorite "Handwich", and keep an eye out for the team's beloved mascot, Wool E. Bull. During the off-season, the stadium also hosts concerts, community events, and college baseball games throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before visiting.
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Spanning 55 acres in the heart of the Duke University campus, this lush oasis is home to themed gardens, koi-filled ponds, and five miles of winding walking trails. Explore the Japanese Garden with its tranquil teahouse and arched bridges, or wander through the Terrace Gardens, where seasonal flowers bloom all year round. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a photographer looking for the perfect shot, or just need a beautiful spot in nature to recharge, this is definitely one of Durham's most breathtaking destinations.
Museum of Life and Science
One of the best family-friendly attractions in Durham, The Museum of Life and Science is packed with 25 hands-on exhibits, outdoor adventure zones, and live animal encounters. Step into the Magic Wings Butterfly House, where hundreds of butterflies flutter around a tropical rainforest habitat, or take a ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway, a kid-friendly train that winds through the museum's 84-acre campus. Animal lovers can meet rescued black bears, lemurs, and even red wolves at the outdoor exhibits, while future astronauts can check out Launch Lab, the NASA-inspired space exhibit full of exploration displays.
Why rent a car on Turo?
Cheap Durham, NC car rental
Find deals on all kinds of drives in Durham, NC and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Convenient Durham, NC car rental pick up options
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in Durham, NC, like airports, train stations, and hotels.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Top hosts in Durham, NC
AMERICAN AUTO MANAGEMENT ..
AMERICAN AUTO MANAGEMENT ..’s vehicles
Edson A.
Edson A.’s vehicles
Durham car rentals for any occasion
Game day car rental
Here's one for all the sports fans. Whether you're cheering on the Duke Blue Devils or catching a Bulls game, the right rental car makes all the difference. A spacious Ford Explorer gives you plenty of room for gear, while a sleek Chevrolet Camaro lets you roll up in style. Skip the parking headache by arriving early and with your own set of wheels so you can hit a post-game spot like Ponysaurus Brewing Co. or NanaSteak without waiting on a ridesharing surge.
Wedding or formal event car rental
When the occasion calls for a little extra class, then a luxury car rental is the way to go. Are you the guest of honor, or just dressing to impress? Turo's local hosts have got just the thing. Try a BMW 3 Series or a Cadillac Escalade to add that perfect little touch of elegance. Headed to a wedding at the Duke Chapel or The Cotton Room? With a rental car, you'll get to enjoy premium comfort while cruising between the ceremony, reception, and that inevitable late-night stop for post-wedding snacks.
Long-term car rental
Sticking around Durham for longer? It doesn't matter if you're here for an extended work assignment at Research Triangle Park, spending a semester at Duke University, or just soaking in the city's Southern charm, a long-term car rental gives you the freedom to live like a local and explore on your own schedule. Enjoy the best car rental deals by booking for one month or more on Turo. With such amazing car rental rates, you can enjoy the perfect drive without breaking the bank!
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Rental car pickup locations throughout Durham
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in Durham, NC, including Durham, NC airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Durham, NC pickup locations include:
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Turo is here to make airport rental car counter madness a thing of the past. Just land and head straight to pick up your car rental seamlessly at Raleigh-Durham airport's designated parking areas. Your host will leave the car at either the ParkRDU Premier or Central garages, or if those are full, at Economy 3, 4, or Express lots. No waiting in line, no paperwork, kerfuffle; just grab the parking ticket left in your rental, exit the lot, and get straight to adventuring.
Durham Station Transportation Center
If you're arriving by bus or train, picking up your rental at the Durham Station Transportation Center on W Pettigrew Street is a seamless way to start exploring. Just minutes from the Durham city center, this hub puts you within easy reach of Duke University, the American Tobacco Campus, and the city's buzzing brewery scene (check out Atomic Clock Brewing for a cold one, but don't drink and drive!). Whether you're here for a weekend trip or need a car to navigate the Research Triangle, grabbing your rental from the Durham station makes the transition from transit to open roads effortless.
Patterson Place
For an easy, stress-free pickup with plenty of parking, Patterson Place is a great alternative to downtown locations. Situated on Witherspoon Boulevard, this shopping area makes it easy to grab your car rental before heading towards Chapel Hill, Eno River State Park, or Falls Lake. Need a quick coffee or last-minute road trip snacks? With Target, Starbucks, and grocery stores all nearby, you can stock up before hitting the road. So whether you're picking up a car for errands, a scenic drive, or a longer getaway, Patterson Place is a great starting point.
Top tips for renting a car in Durham
If you want the freedom to explore Durham's historic sites, scenic parks, and buzzing food scene at your own pace, then having a rental car is your best bet. Cruise through downtown Durham, head to Duke University, or road trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains. But before you hit the road, it's worth knowing the local driving rules and conditions so you can navigate like a true North Carolinian.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Durham?
Speed limits can range anywhere from 35 miles per hour in residential areas to 55–70 mph on highways like the I-85 or I-40. Pay close attention to the signs, as speed limits can change quickly, especially in downtown areas and school zones.
Phone in hand? Not so fast. North Carolina has a strict hands-free law, so no texting or holding your phone while driving unless you want to be fined. Seat belts are non-negotiable, and if you're traveling with kids, they need to be secured in a child seat.
Another thing you'll need to take note of is that Durham has a lot of scenic backroads, which means deer crossings are a real thing. If you're driving around Eno River State Park or Falls Lake, stay alert at dawn and dusk.
What is parking like in Durham?
Plan ahead if you are parking downtown since street parking in places like the American Tobacco Campus and Brightleaf Square is metered. But you don't have to worry too much as there's never a parking garage too far away — just check out W Main Street or around Chapel Hill Street.
If you're here for a Duke basketball game or a Durham Bulls match, get there early as garages can fill up fast, and last-minute parking near the Cameron Indoor Stadium or Durham Bulls Athletic Park can go up in price.
Are there toll roads in Durham?
There aren't any toll roads within Durham itself, but if you're venturing beyond the city, you may run into a few. The Triangle Expressway (NC-540) is the closest toll road and it runs through Western Wake County, connecting to Research Triangle Park (RTP). If you're driving out to Raleigh, Cary, or Morrisville, this route could save you time — just note that it's all electronic which means you'll have to use an NC Quick Pass.
There are also toll bridges if you're traveling further east but within Durham itself, you can explore freely to your heart's content without worrying about extra fees.
Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Durham?
Fueling up and recharging are easy in Durham regardless of what you're driving. Major gas stations can be found scattered throughout the city with plenty of options along major roads like the US-15, and NC-147. If you're headed out toward the Research Triangle Park, or Raleigh, you'll find even more spots to fill up along the I-40.
Durham also has an expanding network of EV charging stations. Check Brightleaf Square, Durham County Library, and around Duke University. If you're staying downtown, look for chargers near the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and the American Tobacco Campus.
Do I need to rent a car in Durham?
Renting a car is the best way to experience everything this city has to offer without being tied to a bus schedule. Many of Durham's best spots, like the Eno River trails, Duke Forest, and road-trip BBQ joints in the countryside, are easiest to reach with your own set of wheels.
Whether you're checking out Duke University, the Museum of Life and Science, or heading to a Bulls game, having your own car makes it easier to get around. Plus, with nearby road trips to Chapel Hill and even Blue Ridge Mountain, a rental car means you can venture out of the city and make the most of your trip here.
Frequently asked questions about Durham car rentals
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promo codes, discounts, and deals.
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
Is there long term car rental on Turo?
Yes there is - whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.
See more about promotions & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Is there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Durham?
How much does it cost to rent a car in Durham?
The cost of car rental in Durham can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in Durham, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
What types of cars can I rent on Turo in Durham?
What types of cars can I rent on Turo in Durham?
On Turo, you can find a wide selection of car rental types that make any trip, whether you're navigating city streets, heading to a college game, or exploring North Carolina's scenic backroads. Here's a look at some of the different car types available:
- Economy car rental: A budget-friendly, no-frills option like the Hyundai Accent or Nissan Versa is perfect for daily errands, solo travelers, or short commutes around Durham without breaking the bank on fuel.
- Compact car rental: A Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla is great for city driving, quick getaways, or business trips, offering a smooth ride with solid fuel efficiency and easy parking in downtown Durham.
- Midsize and standard sedan rental: A Hyundai Sonata or Nissan Altima gives you extra legroom, modern tech, and a comfortable ride — ideal for small families, work trips, or weekend escapes.
- SUV rental: If you need more space for family adventures, outdoor excursions, or extra cargo, a Toyota RAV4, Ford Explorer, or Honda Pilot provides versatility, comfort, and all-weather capability.
- Van rental: A Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Pacifica, or Ford Transit is perfect for group outings, youth tournaments, or big family road trips, with plenty of passenger and luggage space for seamless travel.
- Luxury car rental: Elevate your ride with a BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, or Audi A5 Sportback, whether you’re attending a formal event, making an impression on a business trip, or just treating yourself.
- Convertible rental: Take in the North Carolina sunshine with the top down in a Mazda MX-5 Miata, Ford Mustang, or Chevrolet Camaro, whether you're cruising through scenic roads or making a stylish entrance downtown.
- Pickup truck rental: If you need to move furniture, haul equipment, or tackle off-road terrain, a Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, or Chevrolet Silverado is built for the job.
- Hybrid and electric car rental: Eco-conscious drivers can enjoy lower fuel costs or zero emissions with a Toyota Prius, Tesla Model 3, or Hyundai Ioniq 5, perfect for long drives or zipping between Durham’s hotspots.
* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. In the US, liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.