Turo
Hero background image

Car rental Charleston, WV

Discover the Turo car rental marketplace

Where
From
Until
Insurance icon

Extraordinary selection

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

Insurance icon

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, WV

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Tesla Model 3 car rental in Charleston on Turo

Rent a car in Charleston on Turo

Whether you're cruising through downtown or planning a road trip into the Appalachian foothills, a car rental in Charleston, WV, is your ticket to getting around with total ease. On Turo, you can skip the rental counter and book directly with trusted local hosts, giving you the flexibility to choose the exact car you need, without the hidden fees or long wait times.

From exploring the vibrant East End Historic District to navigating backroads through Kanawha State Forest, having your own rental car makes all the difference. Whether you're in town for business, a weekend getaway, or a family visit, there are plenty of car rental options in Charleston on Turo that work for every plan and pace.

Charleston, WV 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, West Virginia and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.

animated hand holding phone

1. Find the perfect car

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

animation of finding a car

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.

rear view of a car

3. Hit the road

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

Recent Charleston, WV car rental reviews

Ford Fusion Hybrid 2018

The host was gracious to help me out in my time of need thank you

WADE RAYMOND
-
Ford Fusion Hybrid 2020

I’ve only been using Turo for a couple of months and I will tell you that this host is absolutely amazing. He makes the trip hassle-free, if you have any questions during your trip he gets back with you almost immediately. If I can help it, we will continue to use this host. Hopefully, all trips in his vehicles were as good as mine.

Kamri
-
Joshua
Ford Fusion Hybrid 2020

The car quality was great no problems, pick up was great as well. No issues with the provider at all great communication.

Joshua
-
Fred
Ford Fusion Hybrid 2020

Car was perfect, clean, and comfortable. And gets great gas mileage. Highly recommend

Fred
-
Volkswagen Jetta 2016

Easy to make the reservation. Communication was clear and helpful. Vehicle in good shape and reliable. I dealt with the co-host Shamika on pick up and drop off. She was patient and friendly. If I'm in the area again, I would definitely rent from Charles/Shaina again.

Lisa H.
-
Eric C.
Volkswagen Jetta 2016

Pick up location was good, car was in great condition, customer service very easy to deal with would definitely rent from again!

Eric C.
-
Volkswagen Jetta 2016

The Host was amazing , the charging ports and cigarette lighters didn't work in the car for me , but that's the only issue . It was most definitely amazing experience, and the host were good enough to work with me helping me make sure I could rent the car. 10/10 rating

Autumn M.
-
Sara M.
Ford Fusion Hybrid 2018

Great car and great customer service. Super helpful to work with, will definitely rent again.

Sara M.
-

Rent a car and explore Charleston, WV

Things to do and places to see in Charleston, WV

Charleston may be the capital of West Virginia, but it's the small-city charm, riverside views, and cultural gems that keep visitors coming back. From the golden dome of the State Capitol to trails that wind through Kanawha State Forest, Charleston blends nature, history, and community in one scenic package.

Rent the perfect car
Charleston, WV

West Virginia State Capitol

Crowned with a 292-foot golden dome that glows in the afternoon sun, Charleston's State Capitol is as grand as it is iconic. Designed by famed architect Cass Gilbert, the building's opulent interiors of sweeping staircases and marble columns are worth the tour alone. Outside, the riverside grounds are perfect for a peaceful stroll where you can snap a selfie with the dome behind you.

Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

Part science museum, part performance venue, and all around local favorite. Inside, you'll find the Avampato Discovery Museum, a hands-on wonderland where kids can build, tinker, and explore everything from physics to paleontology. There's also a full-dome planetarium offering space shows and stargazing sessions. Upstairs, the Maier Foundation Performance Hall hosts concerts, Broadway tours, and live theatre throughout the year.

Kanawha State Forest

Want to escape the city without having to leave it? Just a short drive from downtown, Kanawha State Forest is a lush retreat that offers a full-on nature reset with shady trails, creekside picnic spots, and nearly 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. It's a local go-to for everything from birdwatching to backcountry camping, and if you're lucky, you might catch a springtime wildflower bloom or a golden autumn canopy that feels like something straight out of a postcard.

Why Rent a car on Turo?

" "

Cheap Charleston, WV car rental

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

" "

Convenient Charleston, WV 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, WV, 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.

Charleston car rentals for any occasion

purple lines

Vacation car rental

Weekend plans? Charleston makes a great launchpad. Rent a comfortable SUV or crossover and follow the Kanawha River through the hills, take a scenic cruise down the Midland Trail, or pack up for a few unplugged nights in a cabin near Kanawha State Forest.

Long-term car rental

In town for a medical rotation at CAMC or taking a semester at the University of Charleston? A long-term rental car gives you flexibility for everyday errands and weekend drives, with great discounts and car rental deals available on longer bookings.

Weddings and formal event car rental

Attending a wedding at the Clay Center or a formal event near the Capitol Complex? Premium car rental options, like a luxury sedan or SUV, make the occasion feel even more special. With convenient pickup options across Charleston, you’ll arrive in style, without relying on rideshares or friends.

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, WV, including Charleston, WV airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Charleston, WV pickup locations include:

Purple squiggle

West Virginia International Yeager Airport

Landing in West Virginia? Skip the airport car rental counter and collect your vehicle from a location near the Yeager Airport. With Turo, you can collect your car from a pre-arranged area near the airport terminal before or after your flight. Your host will provide all the pickup details you need via the Turo app ahead of time, so there's no waiting in line or searching for a rental desk.

Downtown Charleston

Whether you're staying at a hotel or kicking off your trip from your front door, Downtown Charleston is such a convenient location for a car rental pickup. With restaurants, shops, and attractions like the Clay Center nearby, it's a great spot to start exploring the city, and we guarantee you'll never be far from the action.

Southridge Shopping Center

Need a pickup spot that's easy to find and close to everything? Southridge fits the bill. Located just off Corridor G (US-119), this busy retail hub has everything you need to stock up on before a weekend getaway. Whether you're looking for drive-thru coffee and last-minute supplies, gas, or groceries, this is a great location to collect your car before heading out for a weekend road trip or a longer journey into the Appalachian hills.

Top tips for renting a car in Charleston


Whether you're exploring downtown, heading into the Appalachian foothills, or visiting nearby towns, having a rental car in Charleston gives you the flexibility to travel on your own terms. To make the most of your trip, here are a few helpful tips to keep things smooth, simple, and stress-free.


What are the road rules and driving conditions in Charleston?


Driving around Charleston is usually smooth sailing, especially with its compact layout and relaxed pace. Residential streets have average speed limits of around 25 miles per hour (mph), while highways stretch to 55–70 mph. Just make sure to watch for posted signs as you head out of town, and as always in West Virginia, buckle up and keep your phone down because texting while driving is strictly off-limits.


If you're visiting in winter, be ready for snow or ice, especially on winding roads near Kanawha State Forest or in the surrounding hills. It’s beautiful, but conditions can change quickly. Deer are early risers (and late roamers), so stay alert at dawn and dusk. Before you hit the road, the West Virginia 511 app is your go-to for traffic and weather updates.


What is parking like in Charleston?


Parking in Charleston, WV, is refreshingly easy. You'll find plenty of garages around Quarrier Street and Laidley Street. If you're headed to events at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center or Clay Center, make sure to arrive a little bit early to score a good spot, since parking lots can fill up fast during concerts and performances.


Are there toll roads in Charleston?


Yes, the West Virginia Turnpike is a toll road that runs between Princeton and Charleston, and it's a popular route for travelers heading through southern West Virginia. That said, if your plans keep you close to downtown Charleston, the State Capitol Building, or nearby escapes like Kanawha State Forest, you can steer clear of tolls entirely and enjoy the drive at no extra cost.


Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Charleston?


You won't have to go far to top up your tank or your battery in Charleston. Both gas and EV charging stations are dotted across key roads such as Washington Street, MacCorkle Avenue, and Lee Street. They're easy to access whether you're headed downtown, across the Kanawha River, or out toward the interstate.


Do I need to rent a car in Charleston?


For the most flexibility, renting a car in Charleston is your best bet. The city is surrounded by state parks, riverside drives, and historic attractions that are easiest to access by car. From day trips to Kanawha State Forest to catching a show at the Clay Center or cruising along the scenic Midland Trail, having your own rental makes it all easier. Whether you're a local running errands or a visitor on vacation, Turo helps you explore Charleston and beyond, and on your own schedule.


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?

Whether you're headed into the mountains, downtown for a show, or out on a road trip, there are a wide variety of car rental types on Turo in Charleston to match your travel style and budget.

- Standard SUVs: Practical favourites like the Toyota RAV4 or Ford Escape are great for family trips, hiking hauls, or exploring West Virginia’s winding backroads.

- Pickup trucks: Rugged choices like the Ford F-150 or Ram 1500 are ideal for outdoor adventures, moves, or weekend projects.

- Economy and compact cars: If you're looking for a cheap rental car, budget-friendly models like the Hyundai Elantra or Toyota Corolla are perfect for getting around the city efficiently.

- Premium and luxury sedans: Want something a little more polished? Drive models like the Chrysler 300 or Mercedes-Benz E-Class for business or formal events.

- Performance sports cars: Looking to turn heads on the highway? Book a Dodge Challenger or Ford Mustang and cruise the West Virginia hills in style.

- Electric vehicles: For smooth, quiet city drives, choose a Tesla Model 3 or Chevrolet Bolt. Charging stations are available around downtown and near the Capitol.

- Passenger vans and limo vans: Traveling with a group? Vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica or Ford Transit make airport pickups and family outings a breeze.