Car rental Jacksonville, NC

Top tips for renting a car in Jacksonville

Taking to the streets of Jacksonville in a Toyota Corolla or Subaru Ascent? No matter what vehicle you rent, driving in an unfamiliar location can cause some anxiety. To boost your confidence, consider these car rental tips.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Jacksonville?

Driving in Jacksonville is straightforward once you get familiar with the main roads. You can navigate most of the city on larger roads like Johnson Blvd. and Highway 17, though some residential roads and side streets are narrow. Keep in mind that the junction of Highway 17 and Wilmington Highway can get congested during rush hour.

The speed limits on smaller Jacksonville roads range from 35–45 mph. On the highways around the city, you can expect limits from 45–60 mph.

The weather is often sunny and pleasant in Jacksonville, which should make for a comfortable drive in or around town. While it doesn't snow much, the Jacksonville area gets more than six inches of rain per month from July to September, so be careful when driving your rental car. If you want extra confidence in wet conditions, consider a comfortable SUV with plenty of visibility and space.

What is parking like in Jacksonville?

Parking in Jacksonville is easy to find. In the downtown district, you'll have access to ample street parking options, which are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Destinations like the Jacksonville Commons Recreation Complex have spacious parking lots where you can park your rental car for free. This particular lot comes with 187 free spaces.

Are there toll roads in Jacksonville?

You won't encounter toll roads if you stay in the Jacksonville area. The two primary toll roads in North Carolina are the Monroe Expressway in the Charlotte area and the Triangle Expressway in the Raleigh area — both far from the coast.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville offers plenty of gas stations and EV chargers for drivers of all types of vehicles. If you need to fill up your tank before heading to one of the many Jacksonville beaches, you'll find numerous Speedway, Circle K, and Shell stations in the area. When you rent an electric vehicle, the city is home to 65 EV charging stations, more than a dozen of which are free. If you're in a hurry, you can find three DC fast charging ports in the area, including a Tesla Supercharger on Gum Branch Rd.

Do I need to rent a car in Jacksonville?

A rental car is the best way to get around Jacksonville. There are over 17 miles of greenways and trails throughout the city, and downtown Jacksonville is walkable with help from Jacksonville Public Transit. However, these options don't go everywhere — with a rental vehicle, you can travel to any area of Jacksonville without delay, from Onslow Beach to the shops and restaurants along Western Blvd.