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Car rental Iowa City, IA

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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 Iowa City, IA

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

GMC Yukon car rental in Iowa City on Turo

Rent a car in Iowa City on Turo

Renting a car in Iowa City opens up the art, culture, and history this college town is known for. Explore downtown in a compact car, glide through the countryside in an electric vehicle, or take on a Midwest winter in a roomy all-wheel-drive SUV built for space and comfort — you can find them all on Turo.

A rental car makes your visit easier and more flexible. Soak up the full atmosphere of Iowa City, travel on your own schedule, and pick the pickup spot that suits you best. Whether you start at the airport or downtown, having your own car makes the trip more memorable.

Iowa City, IA car rental: How it works

On Turo, renting a car in Iowa City is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Iowa City, Iowa 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 Iowa City, IA (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 Iowa City, IA! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.

Recent Iowa City, IA car rental reviews

Ford Focus 2016

Very nice car! Rides very smooth and great on gas! I definitely recommend this car!! Host also was awesome, can’t wait to rent again!!

Kavi
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Michelle
Porsche Panamera 2017

Everything was perfect! I love that car. Carlos was also very helpful and laid back! I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for an experience! Thanks!

Michelle
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Delvic
Hyundai Elantra 2024

Beautiful and very flexible car nice in the interior I really like it

Delvic
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Tatyana
BMW 3 Series 2016

Quick responses if you have questions. Very nice car. And helpful host. I will be renting again

Tatyana
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Ford Focus 2016

Great, JP got me everything I needed in a timely manner. Great host

Justin
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Cassandra
Nissan Altima 2023

Anna is a great host! Her Altima was really clean and held a smooth ride! Absolutely booking again!

Cassandra
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Hyundai Genesis 2016

Everything was great , from the pick up to the return . The car ran smooth and we had a great trip .

Amanda
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Jetaun
Ford Focus 2016

Host was great 👍🏾 Car drove awesome for my road trip. Definitely a gas saver. Thanks again

Jetaun
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DeAndre
Ford Focus 2016

Excellent host with a very well maintained car every trip. Will be using again!

DeAndre
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Hyundai Elantra 2024

The car was great would definitely recommend this and the owner was very nice

Niyurukundo
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Ford Focus 2016

Super accomdadating for a last minute trip! Will book again

Taylor
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dametry
Ford Focus 2016

Awesome guy. Easy to work with. Highly recommend. Car was amazing on gas

dametry
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LaTasha
BMW 3 Series 2016

Beautiful car! Carlos is always a fantastic host!

LaTasha
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Hyundai Genesis 2016

It all went great everything from the host to the car and i loved how great the AC worked in this car will be renting again it was a nice smooth ride.

Kathryn
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Divine B.
Hyundai Elantra 2024

Great car! The type-C charger would sometimes go out occasionally, but it would always start working again and honestly could’ve just been my chord, I’m not sure. Great on fuel, wheel alignment, and safety features as well.

Divine B.
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Austin
Ford Focus 2014

JP was a very kind and communicative host and the car was perfect for my short trip!

Austin
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Catherine
Hyundai Elantra 2025

Wonderful car! clean , fuel efficient and comfortable to drive. Easy pickup/drop off. Would rent again

Catherine
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Kylee
BMW 3 Series 2016

Very clean ! Drove great ! Will definitely be booking again !

Kylee
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Hyundai Genesis 2016

Quick, easy, clear communication- reliable vehicle!

Taylor
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Rent a car and explore Iowa City, IA

Things to do and places to see in Iowa City, IA

Whether you're checking out the University of Iowa, exploring artifacts in the Museum of Natural History, or bird-watching at the Terry Trueblood Recreational Area, there's something for everyone to discover in Iowa City. Just next door, Coralville adds even more to explore, from lakeside trails to easy shopping stops.

Rent the perfect car
Iowa City, IA

Old Capitol Museum

Located on the University of Iowa campus, you'll find the Old Capitol Museum. Take a self-guided tour and marvel at the architecture of the building, learn about the historical significance, and learn something new about Iowa City. Take as much time as you need to wander the Old Capitol Museum, soak in the history, and discover more about Iowa's culture. Whether you're a history buff or an architecture major, you're sure to appreciate this beautiful peek into the past.

Devonian Fossil Gorge

Spend the day uncovering tiny fossils, learning about how the gorge was formed, and exploring the natural beauty of Devonian Fossil Gorge. Whether you have a dinosaur lover or history enthusiast in your family, or you're just looking for a unique experience, this Gorge is sure to surprise and delight. Just a 15-minute drive from Downtown Iowa City, it's easy and convenient to cruise through the forest and discover fossils.

Stanley Museum of Art

If you want to switch off for a day and absorb beautiful art in beautiful spaces, the Stanley Museum of Art is a must-visit. There's a large mix of paintings and art in their collection, like student works and local pieces, but also Matisse and Picasso pieces. It's conveniently located in downtown Iowa City, so you can pop in for 30 minutes or stay the whole day. The best part? It's free!

Why Rent a car on Turo in Iowa City, IA?

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Cheap Iowa City, IA car rental

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

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Convenient Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA, 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.

Iowa City car rentals for any occasion

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Vacation car rental

Planning a getaway around eastern Iowa? A rental car lets you set your own pace — take in scenic drives, stop wherever you like, and reach the spots beyond the bus routes. Spend a day in nearby Cedar Rapids, hike at Lake Macbride State Park, or browse car rentals across Iowa to match the car to your trip, from a comfortable sedan to a spacious SUV.

Event car rental

Iowa City runs on big moments — graduation weekend, Hawkeye game days, campus tours, and student move-in. A rental car makes those busy days easier, with room for family, friends, and everything you're bringing along. Choose a minivan or SUV when you need extra space, or a compact car for getting between campus and downtown.

Long-term car rental

Staying in Iowa City for a while or relocating here? A rental car makes settling in easier — run your errands, bring the groceries home, and explore the wider area on your own schedule. Many cars on Turo offer discounts for bookings of a month or more, so a monthly car rental in Iowa City can be the most affordable way to go.

Turo car rental vs. traditional rental

Turo Car rental

  • 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 rental

  • Standard rental counter experience

  • Waiting in line

  • Limited selection

  • Get a type of vehicle “or similar”

  • Pickup at retail locations

  • Owned by large corporations

  • No vehicle ratings

Rental car pickup locations throughout Iowa City

Forget the traditional rental counters. On Turo, you can have a car delivered right to you. Whether you’re arriving at the airport, staying at a local hotel, or beginning your trip from downtown, Turo offers flexible options to match your schedule and make pickup hassle-free.

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Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)

Skip the lines at the airport car rental counter and pick up your car with Eastern Iowa Airport car rental on Turo. Breeze through baggage claim and collect your rental car from any of the public lots at the airport, or head to the ride-share area for an in-person exchange. Check the Turo app for exact pickup instructions. Whether you're renting a spacious SUV or an electric vehicle, it's easy to grab your car and dive straight into your Iowa City exploration.

Iowa City Downtown District

Looking for car rental locations in the heart of the city? If you want to skip the busy airport altogether, arrange a pickup in the Iowa City Downtown District for a stress-free start to your Iowa City adventure. Collect your rental car on East Washington Street, East Jefferson Street, or near the Old Capitol Museum to kick-start your visit without the hassle.

University of Iowa

If you're visiting Iowa City for graduation or a college tour, or you're a student wanting to explore Iowa for the weekend, Turo has you covered. It's easy to pick up your rental car near the university campus, on Hawkins Drive or Newton Road. Whether you're renting a zippy compact car or cruising around in a reliable sedan, you can collect your rental car wherever suits you.

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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 Iowa City


Iowa City offers a plethora of history, culture, and art, and it's easy to get distracted. Give your full focus to the city and brush up on your Iowa road rules for a safe and stress-free visit. Here are our top tips on driving, parking, and fueling up in Iowa City.


What are the road rules and driving conditions in Iowa City?


Driving in Iowa City is generally relaxed, with good driving conditions for most of the year. However, it's important to be aware of rush hour traffic and weather changes. As a college town, Iowa City has traffic congestion during rush hour and around school events, so it's best to allow extra time to get around.


Iowa City experiences all four seasons, so you should stay vigilant and drive according to the conditions, especially in winter, when ice and snow can make driving challenging. It's smart to keep an ice scraper handy and take your time when the weather turns.


As always, adhere to local speed limits, wear a seatbelt, and only operate your phone hands-free.


What is parking like in Iowa City?


Parking in downtown Iowa City can be challenging, with a busy mix of events and visitors in this part of town. College students can make the city feel busy, but you'll find parking ramps, metered parking, and free parking at certain businesses or restaurants. The Harrison Street parking ramp is conveniently located downtown and usually has plenty of space. Street meters are free on Sundays, which is perfect for weekend exploring. The University of Iowa also offers parking, but it's best to check their website for rates and the best areas to suit your needs.


Are there toll roads in Iowa City?


No, there are no toll roads in Iowa City, so you can keep the adventure rolling without worrying about tolls.


Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Iowa City?


Iowa City offers ample gas stations to keep your adventure fueled. Choose from Kum & Go on South Riverside Drive, Kwik Star on Keokuk Street, or the Urban Fuel Express on Moss Ridge Road. All of these stations are conveniently located downtown and around the university campus.


If you're driving an electric vehicle, there are plenty of charging stations in Iowa City. Charge up at the Tesla Supercharger on North Dodge Street, the ChargePoint Charging Station on Moss Ridge Road, or the EV Connect Charging Station on Mormon Trek Boulevard.


Do I need to rent a car in Iowa City?


While downtown is very walkable, we definitely recommend renting a car if you're planning on exploring attractions beyond the city center. If you want to explore Lake Macbride State Park, the Old Capitol Museum, or the Iowa Writers' Workshop, a rental vehicle gives you the flexibility and convenience to visit these locations on your own schedule.


Turo vs traditional car rental in Iowa City


Turo is a car rental marketplace where you book cars directly from local hosts, so renting works a little differently than a traditional rental company. Instead of waiting in line at a counter, you browse a wide range of vehicles online, pick the one that fits your trip, and arrange pickup or delivery at a spot that works for you — the airport, downtown, or near campus.


With options ranging from compact cars and electric vehicles to spacious SUVs and minivans, you can match the car to the trip and often find better value on longer bookings. Compare cars, read reviews, and book in the Turo app to rent on your own terms in Iowa City.

Frequently asked questions about Iowa City car rentals

What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City 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 in Iowa City?

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 Iowa City?

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

What rental car types are there in Iowa City?

Whether you want to zip around Iowa City in a Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Passport, or Tesla Model S, Turo has you covered. Vehicle classes available include all car sizes, like trucks, vans, SUVs, and even zippy compact cars. Popular makes and models to choose from are the Ram 1500, Mercedes Benz, Nissan Titan, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escape, and the Chevrolet Traverse.

* 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.