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Car rental Charleston, SC

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Extraordinary selection

From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget

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Liability insurance included

Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans

Free cancellation

Easy airport pickup

You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada

Rental cars in Charleston, SC

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Mercedes-Benz C-Class car rental in Charleston on Turo

Rent a car in Charleston on Turo

Car rental in Charleston changes how the city unfolds. Streets lined with pastel facades lead out to salt marshes, barrier islands, and quiet corners that feel best discovered on your own schedule. A rental car gives you the freedom to move between them without watching the clock. From quick errands to full-day escapes, Turo makes it easy to choose a vehicle that fits the moment.

Beyond the peninsula, Charleston stretches outward in ways walking can’t reach. Drive from the stalls of Charleston City Market to the ferry point for Fort Sumter, then continue toward beaches and lowcountry backroads that quickly soften the pace of the Holy City. You'll find a range of rental cars on Turo's marketplace, a relaxed alternative to a traditional rental car company, especially when arriving via Charleston Airport or planning days at your own pace.

Charleston, SC car rental: How it works

On Turo, renting a car in Charleston is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Charleston, South Carolina and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.

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1. Find the perfect car

Enter a date and location in Charleston, SC (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.

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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.

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3. Hit the road

Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Charleston, SC! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.

Recent Charleston, SC car rental reviews

Toyota Yaris 2017

Joshua was a great host and the Toyota Yaris was exactly as described. The car was clean, reliable, fuel efficient, and perfect for getting around town. Pickup and drop off were easy, and communication was smooth throughout the trip. Would definitely rent from Joshua again. Thanks!

Evan
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Karla
Toyota Corolla Hybrid 2022

Awesome car even better host..they gave me a discount to continue renting.. would definitely rent again!

Karla
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April
Mitsubishi Mirage G4 2024

Great car and great host will definitely rent from him again

April
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Nissan Sentra 2017

The car was of excellent quality. Although the location was a bit far, it was definitely worth the purchase. It was great on gas! The host was very responsive, helpful, and friendly. I look forward to renting again for my next road trip!

Ashanti
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Ashley Nicole
Toyota Camry 2015

I absolutely LOVED this car!! Adam is so friendly and helpful, I will be booking with him every time I come to Charleston!!! He is the absolute best, 10/10 recommend! The car is absolutely a blast! No complaints, nothing but wonderful things to say!

Ashley Nicole
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Ondre
Toyota Camry 2014

Car drove nice, was clean and Adam was super friendly and helpful. Would definitely rent from him again.

Ondre
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Sara
Kia Forte 2017

Todd was great in communication and the car was a good ride.

Sara
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Toyota Yaris 2014

Car worked very well with no issues. If you need something simple that works, this if for you.

Ahmed
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Michael
Kia Forte 2017

Great car excellent gas mileage and comfy, Todd was super helpful!

Michael
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Tiffany
Toyota Camry 2014

The car is kept up well . Drives great and good on gas . The host was awesome and very communicative . I appreciate him he made my experience a great one .

Tiffany
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Anthony
Toyota Corolla 2013

Great car. Awesome communication by the host. Thank you!

Anthony
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Micki
Toyota Camry 2016

Adam was the Best! I rented the Camry and the car was Excellent! Drive nice! I rented beach gear also for my trip! I will totally rent from Adam again anytime! Thank You so much! Be Blessed! Michele

Micki
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Jefferson
Toyota Prius c 2015

Marion has been nothing short of the best! Highly recommend

Jefferson
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Diamond
Toyota Camry 2014

Host was great with communication good car runs like it’s brand new and also good on gas would recommend renting from host if your in town and need a car to drive looking forward to renting from host again

Diamond
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Yaritza
Nissan Sentra 2017

Car was great! No trouble at all. Host was very good

Yaritza
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Andrew
Toyota Corolla 2013

Car was as expected, Adam was very flexible with changes to pick up and drop off times

Andrew
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Hyundai Elantra 2018

Every aspect from start to finish was phenomenal. The car ran smoothly and the host was very quick/responsive. This was my first booking on Turo and I hope any future trips will go as well as this. Thank you sir!

Joseph
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Erica
Toyota Camry 2014

The host Adam was terrific from start to finish. And the car rode great. I'll definitely be using him again. Thanks

Erica
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Rent a car and explore Charleston, SC

Things to do and places to see in Charleston, SC

Charleston reveals its character in layers, from pastel streets and waterfront promenades to plantations and barrier islands beyond the peninsula. While highlights like Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park sit close to downtown Charleston, many of the Lowcountry’s most memorable sights are spread well beyond the Charleston city center, making a car essential for seeing the full picture. With Turo hosts available across a wide array of Charleston locations, it’s easy to explore at your own rhythm.

Rent the perfect car
Charleston, SC

Boone Hall Plantation

Live oak avenues and preserved grounds tell stories that stretch back centuries, reflecting the region’s layered Lowcountry history and preservation efforts. Boone Hall is a straightforward drive from the city, with on-site parking that makes arriving by car stress-free.

Folly Beach

Laid-back, sun-warmed, and proudly unpolished, Folly Beach is where locals go to surf, stroll, and stay through sunset. Reaching the island is easiest by car, especially if you want to explore different beach access points.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

With scenic bridges and spring blooms, Magnolia invites easy wandering through its trails and historic gardens. A rental car allows you to arrive early or linger late, avoiding the rush that often builds around mid-day tours.

Why Rent a car on Turo?

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Cheap Charleston, SC car rental

Find deals on all kinds of drives in Charleston, SC and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.

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Convenient Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC, like airports, train stations, and hotels.

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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.

Charleston car rentals for any occasion

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Long term car rental

Settling into a longer stay in Charleston, SC, calls for a vehicle that fits everyday life, not just a weekend itinerary. A long-term car rental on Turo gives you flexibility for commuting, running errands, or getting a lay of the land, all without the commitment of ownership or rigid contracts.

Luxury car rental for events

From waterfront ceremonies to candlelit receptions downtown, Charleston’s event calendar is full of elegance. Booking a luxury car rental adds polish to the occasion, whether it’s a classic arrival, guest transport, or simply enjoying the drive between venues with everything available on the Turo app.

Vacation and short-stay car rental

Charleston rewards unhurried exploration, from barrier islands to quiet backroads beyond the peninsula. A short-term rental lets you move freely between beaches, historic neighborhoods, and day trips, with added peace of mind thanks to optional extras like roadside assistance, all handled before your trip begins.

Turo vs. traditional car rental

Turo

  • App-based experience

  • No waiting in line

  • 1,600+ unique makes & models

  • Get the exact car you choose

  • Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations

  • Cars rented out by local small businesses

  • Vehicles and hosts rated by guests

Traditional car rental

  • Standard rental counter experience

  • Waiting in line

  • Limited car selection

  • Get one type of car “or similar”

  • Pickup at retail locations

  • Cars owned by large corporations

  • No vehicle ratings

Rental car pickup locations throughout Charleston

Get your vehicle delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in Charleston, SC, including Charleston, SC airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Charleston, SC pickup locations include:

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Charleston International Airport (CHS)

Arriving through Charleston International Airport gives you a smooth starting point for airport car rental without being tied to a traditional rental car facility. Instead of lining up at an airport car rental counter, Turo provides pickup details through the app, with approved airport locations clearly outlined before your trip. You’ll receive everything you need ahead of time, including where and how the exchange takes place.

Downtown Charleston

Picking up a car near downtown Charleston suits travelers who want to settle in first, then drive on their own schedule. This area places you close to historic streets, waterfront parks, and the wider Charleston city center, offering flexible handoffs designed around your itinerary. The Turo app keeps pickup instructions clear, so plans stay simple across your entire rental period.

Greater Charleston neighborhoods

Beyond the peninsula, you can pick up your rental vehicle across wider Charleston locations, making it easy to hit the road near where you’re staying or near family you're visiting. These neighborhoods reflect how people move around the Lowcountry, not just tourist zones. Choosing a pickup nearby can save time on arrival and make starting your trip feel straightforward and local.

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Airport pickup made easy

Next time you fly, don’t wait in line and fill out forms — pick your car up at hundreds of popular airports.

Convenient pickup & return

Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the car at approved parking lots or garages. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.

No lines, no paperwork

Skip the rental car counter at hundreds of popular airports without waiting in line or filling out paperwork. Find and pick up the car with the app and hit the road in no time.

Free cancellation

Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts, unless you opt to receive a non-refundable trip discount when you book. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.

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Pickup near or at Airports

Top tips for renting a car in Charleston


A little local knowledge goes a long way when driving in Charleston. These tips help you move confidently from arrival to your final stop, without second-guessing the road, parking, or what to expect along the way.


What are the road rules and driving conditions in Charleston?


Driving around Charleston, SC, feels slower and more deliberate than many larger cities, especially once you move beyond the peninsula. Major routes like US-17, I-26, and the Ravenel Bridge carry the bulk of daily traffic, with congestion peaking during weekday mornings from around 7:00–9:00 AM and late afternoons from 4:00–6:00 PM. Speed limits typically sit at 25–35 mph in residential areas and increase on highways.


Summer heat and coastal storms can affect visibility and road conditions, particularly during afternoon rain bursts or during hurricane season between June and November. Speed limits and traffic laws are enforced throughout the region, and it’s common to see law enforcement monitoring speeds near bridges and causeways. Take your time, signal early, and expect pedestrians and cyclists in historic districts.


Bridges and waterways shape how the city moves, so routes often funnel traffic through a few key crossings. Plan extra time when heading between Mount Pleasant, downtown, and West Ashley, especially around sunset or event weekends.


What is parking like in Charleston?


Parking in Charleston is manageable, especially if you plan ahead. Downtown garages like the Cumberland Street Garage, Aquarium Garage, and King Street Garage are well-used and centrally placed for walking the historic district. Street parking is limited in residential zones and closely monitored, so garages tend to be the easier option.


Outside the peninsula, parking opens up considerably. Beach areas and suburban neighborhoods generally offer more space. Locals often recommend parking once, then exploring on foot.


Are there toll roads in Charleston?


There are no traditional toll roads in Charleston. South Carolina does not currently operate an electronic toll collection program, and drivers will not encounter systems that require them to pay tolls electronically within the city or surrounding coastal highways.


Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Charleston?


Gas stations are easy to find along major roads like Meeting Street, Savannah Highway, and Highway 17, with familiar brands spread across the metro area. Prices tend to fluctuate by neighborhood, so local fuel prices may be slightly higher closer to tourist corridors and beaches.


EV charging is growing steadily, with chargers available near beach access points on the Isle of Palms and in nearby Mount Pleasant. Charleston works well for short to mid-range EV trips.


Do I need to rent a car in Charleston?


Charleston rewards drivers who want to move beyond the historic core. Beaches, barrier islands, and quiet marsh roads sit well outside walking range, and public transport does not cover them efficiently. Renting a car on Turo gives you the freedom to explore and plan each day around tide charts, coastal sunsets, and scenic backroads, whether you’re arriving via Charleston International Airport (CHS) or already settled in town.

Frequently asked questions about Charleston car rentals

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?

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?

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?

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?

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 works

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 & discounts

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?

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 Charleston? 

The cost of car rental in Charleston can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in Charleston, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.

What rental car types are there in Charleston?

From cobblestone streets to coastal highways, Charleston is a city where the right car makes a difference. Across Charleston, SC, Turo offers a broad mix of vehicles to suit daily life, special occasions, and longer stays, including, but not limited to:

- SUV rental: Models like the Toyota RAV4 or Jeep Grand Cherokee handle beach runs, family days, and uneven coastal roads with ease.


- Luxury SUV rental: A Cadillac Escalade or Range Rover delivers space, comfort, and presence for events, group travel, or elevated city driving.


- Sedan rental: Smooth, efficient options such as the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord suit commutes, errands, and extended stays around the peninsula.


- Premium car rental: Choose a BMW 5 Series or Audi A6 for refined handling and polished interiors on longer drives beyond the city.


- Sports car rental: A Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro adds energy to scenic routes along the coast and open highways inland.


- Pickup truck rental: Practical options like the Ford F-150 are a good fit for moving, home projects, or other short-term hauling needs.

* 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.