Car Rental in London, Canada: A Practical Guide

Major rental agencies operate directly out of London International Airport (YXU) and various downtown locations.

Navigating London, Ontario, and the surrounding Middlesex County is significantly easier with your own vehicle. Whether you are arriving at London International Airport (YXU) or looking to pick up a vehicle in the city center, understanding Ontario's specific licensing rules and rental policies is key to a smooth experience. In this guide, we break down the essential requirements for renting a car in London, Canada, including age limits, mandatory documentation, and airport return restrictions. You will also find details on local rental locations, typical fees like young driver surcharges and damage waivers, and practical driving routes to nearby destinations. Use this overview to plan your trip, avoid common rental pitfalls, and ensure you have the correct driver's license class before arriving at the rental counter.

L'essentiel

To rent a car in Ontario, you must meet specific licensing and age standards. The minimum rental age across the province is generally 21 years old. If you are between the ages of 21 and 24, you will typically be subject to a daily young driver surcharge. In terms of licensing, renters must hold a valid G or G2 driver's license for the entire rental period. Individuals holding a G1 learner's permit are not permitted to rent vehicles under any circumstances. International visitors using driver's licenses printed in a non-Latin alphabet (such as Russian, Japanese, or Arabic) must present an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their valid home country driver's license. Finally, you must provide a major credit card in the primary driver's name to cover the security deposit hold at the time of pickup.

Price overview and booking timing

When planning your budget, keep in mind the various local fees and optional coverages that can affect the final cost. Drivers aged 21 to 24 are typically subject to a daily young driver surcharge, usually ranging from $25 to $35 CAD per day. If you choose to purchase a Damage Waiver (DW) directly at Enterprise airport locations, it will cost between $31.99 and $36.99 CAD per day. Additionally, if you plan to share the driving duties, adding an authorized driver typically incurs a fee of approximately $10 CAD per day. Booking your vehicle well in advance is highly recommended to secure the best base rates and ensure that your preferred vehicle class is available upon arrival.

Where to pick up

London International Airport (YXU) is the primary hub for travelers looking to rent a car. Major rental brands operating here include Enterprise, Alamo, National, Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Their counter facilities are conveniently located inside the main terminal building, directly across from the baggage claim area. However, travelers should note that major rental agencies at the airport prohibit vehicle returns during the terminal closure hours between 12:00 AM (midnight) and 4:30 AM. If you do not require a vehicle immediately upon landing, you can also find several rental offices located throughout downtown London and along major commercial roads, which may offer different operating hours. Be sure to check the specific branch hours if you plan to pick up or drop off your vehicle outside of standard business hours.

Tips for driving out of the city

London's location in Southwestern Ontario makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the wider region. Before setting off, it is crucial to understand where you are permitted to drive. For instance, vehicles rented at Enterprise locations in London can be driven throughout Canada and the United States, allowing for easy cross-border road trips. However, driving these vehicles into Mexico is strictly prohibited by the rental agreement. When driving on major provincial highways like the Highway 401, remain alert to heavy transport truck traffic and changing weather conditions. Always ensure that you keep the physical rental agreement and insurance documents in the glove compartment throughout your journey. Additionally, check if your personal auto insurance or credit card coverage applies to rentals in Canada to avoid paying for duplicate coverage at the counter.

Where to go by car

Tolls: rates vary by country and route segment — check current pricing before you go.