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Sunny skies, swaying palms, and miles of golden beaches, welcome to Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s “Venice of America.” Whether you’re here to unwind by the ocean, embark on an Everglades adventure, or catch a cruise from Port Everglades, having a rental car will elevate your trip. Fort Lauderdale’s laid-back vibe and spread-out attractions make driving the easiest way to get around. This page is your one-stop guide to renting a car in Fort Lauderdale. We combine cheap rental prices with local know-how so you can book with confidence and hit the road with a smile. From beach-hopping along A1A to day trips down to Miami or the Florida Keys, we’ll help you find the perfect wheels to soak up the South Florida sun at your own pace.
Fort Lauderdale is a driver’s paradise in many ways. While the city has some public transportation and trolleys, a car gives you freedom to fully enjoy South Florida. Here’s why renting is a smart move:
Our Fort Lauderdale Car Rental Advantages
Top Fort Lauderdale Car Rental Deals
(Note: Prices above are examples; actual rates depend on your dates and availability. Florida tends to have seasonal fluctuations, expect higher prices in winter high season and during events. Always search for your specific travel dates to get the most accurate quote.)
Driving in Fort Lauderdale: What to Know
Driving around Fort Lauderdale and South Florida is generally a relaxed experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Traffic & Rush Hours: Fort Lauderdale’s roads are busiest during morning and evening rush hours, roughly 7–9 AM and 4–7 PM on weekdays. Key highways like I-95 and I-595 can get congested as commuters travel between Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. If you’re heading to Miami during rush hour, consider taking the Florida Turnpike or US-441 as alternatives to I-95. Around the city, US-1 (Federal Highway) is a major north-south artery that can slow down near downtown and mall areas at peak times. Plan accordingly, if you can, schedule beach drives or longer trips during mid-day or in the evening after 7 PM when traffic eases. One nice thing: Fort Lauderdale’s roads are laid out in a grid and are mostly flat, navigation is straightforward, and even in traffic you won’t be dealing with confusing hills or turns.
Navigating & Parking: Fort Lauderdale is fairly car friendly. Downtown has ample parking garages (around Las Olas Boulevard and near the Riverwalk) which usually cost a few dollars per hour. Beach parking along A1A can fill up on sunny weekends; look for public lots or garages near the beach (some charge ~$4/hour or a flat daily rate). There are also metered street spots by the beach and downtown, many now take credit cards or apps for convenience. In residential areas, be mindful of any permit parking signs to avoid tickets (some beachside neighborhoods restrict daytime parking to residents). Driving-wise, you’ll notice drawbridges on certain routes (for example, along Las Olas Blvd or Sunrise Blvd when crossing the Intracoastal Waterway). These bridges occasionally go up for boat traffic, if the red lights flash, you’ll need to stop and wait a few minutes. It’s a normal part of life in the “Venice of America”! Just enjoy the view while you pause. Lastly, be aware of pedestrians along beach areas and cyclists, Florida law requires yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks, and many locals bike around town.
Tolls & SunPass: South Florida has a number of toll roads and express lanes. The Florida Turnpike and Sawgrass Expressway (SR 869) are toll roads that might be part of your route if you go west or north. Additionally, I-95 and I-595 have optional Express Lanes (variable toll lanes) in parts of Broward and Miami-Dade, they’re marked by plastic dividers. These require a SunPass or compatible transponder to use. No cash is accepted on most Florida toll roads, it’s all electronic. Rental cars are typically equipped with or enrolled in a toll program. If you drive through a toll plaza or use an express lane, the toll will be recorded and charged to your rental’s account. You’ll then be billed the toll, plus a small daily fee (usually ~$3-5 for each day you incur a toll, capped at a certain amount). If you plan to drive a lot on toll roads (say you’re heading to Orlando on the Turnpike), it can be worth it. Otherwise, you can avoid toll roads (for example, use US1 or A1A for local trips, and I-95 (non-express) which is free). There is also an option to pay tolls online after the fact via the Toll-By-Plate system, but with a rental it’s simplest to just let the rental company handle it. When you pick up your car, the staff will explain how their toll coverage works. Note: Florida has the most toll miles of any state (over 700 miles of toll roads!), so encountering tolls is common if you venture beyond local streets.
Driving Etiquette & Safety: South Florida drivers tend to be a bit fast-paced on highways, it’s not unusual to see cars exceeding the speed limit on I-95. Stay to the right lanes if you prefer a calmer speed and use the left lane for passing. Turn signals are, unfortunately, underused by some locals, so always stay alert. Keep an eye out for sudden lane changes, especially near highway exits. Also, summertime brings rainy season, expect sudden heavy downpours, usually in the afternoon. When it rains, roads can puddle; slow down to avoid hydroplaning and consider pulling over if visibility gets very poor (storms usually pass quickly). Never drive into flooded streets, “turn around, don’t drown,” as they say. In rain, Florida law requires headlights on. At night, be cautious on dimmer roads near the Everglades or outskirts, wildlife like frogs (or even an alligator) could wander onto roadways near wetlands. If you’re venturing far west or doing the Alligator Alley drive across the Everglades, note that it’s a long, remote stretch, fill your gas tank before you go, and enjoy the scenery (just don’t stop except at designated areas). Overall, driving here is generally easygoing: roads are well-marked, and outside of rush hour, traffic flows well. Embrace the Florida driving style, a little speedy, but relaxed, and you’ll fit right in.
Fort Lauderdale is a driver’s paradise in many ways. While the city has some public transportation and trolleys, a car gives you freedom to fully enjoy South Florida. Here’s why renting is a smart move:
Our Fort Lauderdale Car Rental Advantages
Top Fort Lauderdale Car Rental Deals
(Note: Prices above are examples; actual rates depend on your dates and availability. Florida tends to have seasonal fluctuations, expect higher prices in winter high season and during events. Always search for your specific travel dates to get the most accurate quote.)
Driving in Fort Lauderdale: What to Know
Driving around Fort Lauderdale and South Florida is generally a relaxed experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Traffic & Rush Hours: Fort Lauderdale’s roads are busiest during morning and evening rush hours, roughly 7–9 AM and 4–7 PM on weekdays. Key highways like I-95 and I-595 can get congested as commuters travel between Miami, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. If you’re heading to Miami during rush hour, consider taking the Florida Turnpike or US-441 as alternatives to I-95. Around the city, US-1 (Federal Highway) is a major north-south artery that can slow down near downtown and mall areas at peak times. Plan accordingly, if you can, schedule beach drives or longer trips during mid-day or in the evening after 7 PM when traffic eases. One nice thing: Fort Lauderdale’s roads are laid out in a grid and are mostly flat, navigation is straightforward, and even in traffic you won’t be dealing with confusing hills or turns.
Navigating & Parking: Fort Lauderdale is fairly car friendly. Downtown has ample parking garages (around Las Olas Boulevard and near the Riverwalk) which usually cost a few dollars per hour. Beach parking along A1A can fill up on sunny weekends; look for public lots or garages near the beach (some charge ~$4/hour or a flat daily rate). There are also metered street spots by the beach and downtown, many now take credit cards or apps for convenience. In residential areas, be mindful of any permit parking signs to avoid tickets (some beachside neighborhoods restrict daytime parking to residents). Driving-wise, you’ll notice drawbridges on certain routes (for example, along Las Olas Blvd or Sunrise Blvd when crossing the Intracoastal Waterway). These bridges occasionally go up for boat traffic, if the red lights flash, you’ll need to stop and wait a few minutes. It’s a normal part of life in the “Venice of America”! Just enjoy the view while you pause. Lastly, be aware of pedestrians along beach areas and cyclists, Florida law requires yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks, and many locals bike around town.
Tolls & SunPass: South Florida has a number of toll roads and express lanes. The Florida Turnpike and Sawgrass Expressway (SR 869) are toll roads that might be part of your route if you go west or north. Additionally, I-95 and I-595 have optional Express Lanes (variable toll lanes) in parts of Broward and Miami-Dade, they’re marked by plastic dividers. These require a SunPass or compatible transponder to use. No cash is accepted on most Florida toll roads, it’s all electronic. Rental cars are typically equipped with or enrolled in a toll program. If you drive through a toll plaza or use an express lane, the toll will be recorded and charged to your rental’s account. You’ll then be billed the toll, plus a small daily fee (usually ~$3-5 for each day you incur a toll, capped at a certain amount). If you plan to drive a lot on toll roads (say you’re heading to Orlando on the Turnpike), it can be worth it. Otherwise, you can avoid toll roads (for example, use US1 or A1A for local trips, and I-95 (non-express) which is free). There is also an option to pay tolls online after the fact via the Toll-By-Plate system, but with a rental it’s simplest to just let the rental company handle it. When you pick up your car, the staff will explain how their toll coverage works. Note: Florida has the most toll miles of any state (over 700 miles of toll roads!), so encountering tolls is common if you venture beyond local streets.
Driving Etiquette & Safety: South Florida drivers tend to be a bit fast-paced on highways, it’s not unusual to see cars exceeding the speed limit on I-95. Stay to the right lanes if you prefer a calmer speed and use the left lane for passing. Turn signals are, unfortunately, underused by some locals, so always stay alert. Keep an eye out for sudden lane changes, especially near highway exits. Also, summertime brings rainy season, expect sudden heavy downpours, usually in the afternoon. When it rains, roads can puddle; slow down to avoid hydroplaning and consider pulling over if visibility gets very poor (storms usually pass quickly). Never drive into flooded streets, “turn around, don’t drown,” as they say. In rain, Florida law requires headlights on. At night, be cautious on dimmer roads near the Everglades or outskirts, wildlife like frogs (or even an alligator) could wander onto roadways near wetlands. If you’re venturing far west or doing the Alligator Alley drive across the Everglades, note that it’s a long, remote stretch, fill your gas tank before you go, and enjoy the scenery (just don’t stop except at designated areas). Overall, driving here is generally easygoing: roads are well-marked, and outside of rush hour, traffic flows well. Embrace the Florida driving style, a little speedy, but relaxed, and you’ll fit right in.
Road Trip Ideas from Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s central location in South Florida makes it a great starting point for road trips. Here are a few fantastic drives and getaways you can enjoy with your rental car:
Overseas Highway to Key West, Tropical Island Road Trip
Distance: ~200 miles from Fort Lauderdale to Key West (approx. 4 hours without stops, but plan a full day with stops).
Route: Take I-95 or Florida’s Turnpike south to Miami, then follow US Highway 1 all the way down through the Florida Keys. US-1 becomes the Overseas Highway, a scenic two-lane highway connecting dozens of islands via bridges (including the famous Seven Mile Bridge).
Highlights: This is one of America’s most unique drives. Once you reach the Florida Keys (about an hour from Fort Lauderdale to Key Largo, the first Key), the vibe changes to island time. In Key Largo, consider stopping at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, even a short glass-bottom boat tour or snorkel can reveal beautiful coral reefs. As you drive further, you’ll see the turquoise waters of the Atlantic on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. In Islamorada, stop at Robbie’s Marina to feed the giant tarpon fish (a quirky must-do) and maybe grab a conch fritter snack. Marathon (about halfway) is a good lunch stop, perhaps fresh seafood by the water. Crossing the Seven Mile Bridge is a thrill, blue ocean as far as the eye can see. Once in the Lower Keys, keep an eye out for the small Key deer on Big Pine Key. Finally, Key West greets you with its charming pastel-colored houses and lively atmosphere. Stroll Duval Street, visit the Southernmost Point buoy, and catch the famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Key West’s mix of history (Hemingway’s home, Fort Zachary Taylor) and party spirit makes it an unforgettable destination.
Tips: Start early, this trip is about the journey, not just the destination. Traffic in the Keys can get slow, especially on weekends, so be patient and enjoy the views. There are frequent passing zones but drive calmly (locals take it easy). There are tolls if you take the Turnpike to Florida City, otherwise route is toll-free via US-1. Fuel up before leaving the mainland; there are plenty of gas stations in the Keys, but prices can be higher. Also, be prepared for the reverse trip: returning from Key West to Fort Lauderdale in the same day will make for a long day (consider staying overnight in Key West or Marathon if possible). And don’t forget sunscreen, even in the car, the South Florida sun is strong, and you’ll likely have the windows down to feel that ocean breeze!
Everglades to Gulf Coast (Fort Lauderdale to Naples via Everglades), Swamp & Sunsets Adventure
Distance: ~110 miles (Fort Lauderdale to Naples is about 2 hours drive).
Route: Head west on I-595/Alligator Alley (I-75) or take the more scenic US-41 Tamiami Trail across the Everglades. Both routes cut straight west across Florida to the Naples/Marco Island area on the Gulf of Mexico.
Highlights: This road trip showcases Florida’s wild side and its beautiful Gulf Coast. Alligator Alley (I-75) is the faster route, a freeway with limited exits that goes through the heart of the Everglades. You’ll see expansive sawgrass marshes and maybe gators sunning in canals along the highway (yes, really!). Halfway across, there’s a service plaza where you can stop, stretch, and often spot alligators safely behind fences. Alternatively, Tamiami Trail (US-41) offers a closer Everglades experience: it’s a two-lane road running through Big Cypress National Preserve, with opportunities to stop at roadside parks and boardwalks. Consider stopping at Shark Valley Visitor Center (about an hour from Fort Lauderdale), you can walk or take a tram tour into the Everglades and see wildlife up close. Another cool stop is Big Cypress Oasis Visitor Center, where a boardwalk often has dozens of gators lounging below. As you approach Naples, the landscape shifts to coastal mangroves and then the upscale town of Naples, known for its beautiful beaches and sunset views. Stroll Naples Pier (great for sunsets over the Gulf), enjoy some fresh Gulf seafood, or explore the shops and galleries of 5th Avenue. If you have time, Marco Island’s powdery white sand beaches are just south of Naples and are absolutely stunning. The contrast of wild Everglades and the refined Gulf Coast makes this trip special.
Tips: If you take Alligator Alley (I-75), note it’s toll road (about $3.25 at the time of writing, electronic toll). If your rental has SunPass, it will cover it. The Tamiami Trail (US-41) is toll-free and more scenic but slower (and you may find yourself behind slow vehicles in no-passing zones). Watch your speed on Tamiami, not just for safety, but state troopers do patrol it. Bring mosquito repellent if you plan to get out in the Everglades, especially in summer; the “skeeters” can be fierce in the swampy areas. Also, have water and snacks, services are sparse in the middle of the Everglades. This drive is best done in daylight to appreciate the scenery; if you stay for sunset on the Gulf, the drive back to Fort Lauderdale in the dark is fine (Alligator Alley is well-traveled, just very dark with no lights, stay alert and avoid speeding). Lastly, enjoy the stars, on a clear night, pulling off at a safe spot on Alligator Alley and gazing up can reveal a sky full of stars due to low light pollution out there.
Florida Coastal Cruise (Fort Lauderdale to Cape Canaveral & St. Augustine), Beaches, Space, and History
Distance: ~275 miles to St. Augustine via Cape Canaveral (Fort Lauderdale to Cape Canaveral is ~190 miles, then ~85 more to St. Augustine). This is a longer haul (about 4.5 hours to St. Augustine not counting stops), best done with an overnight or very early start.
Route: Take I-95 North from Fort Lauderdale. For a space-themed detour, exit toward Cape Canaveral via the Beachline Expressway (SR 528 east) after passing Melbourne. Then continue north on I-95 to St. Augustine.
Highlights: This road trip lets you sample Florida’s Atlantic coast treasures. Driving up I-95, you’ll pass cities like West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie, and Daytona Beach. A great first stop is Cocoa Beach (about 2.5 hours up), home of the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop and a great beach to watch surfers or even catch a rocket launch if timing is right. Near Cocoa, you’ll find Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral. Space enthusiasts will love the Visitor Complex, see real rockets and the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and learn about NASA’s history. It can be a half-day trip in itself. Back on the road, continue to Daytona Beach, if you’ve never driven on a beach, Daytona allows beach driving in designated areas (for a small fee), a unique experience. Even if not, a quick cruise by the Daytona International Speedway or a photo by the famous beach sign could be fun. Heading further north, your destination St. Augustine awaits, it’s the oldest city in the USA, founded in 1565. In St. Augustine, stroll the cobblestone streets of the historic district, tour the Castillo de San Marcos (a 17th-century Spanish stone fort by the water), and enjoy the European charm with Floridian twist. The city has quaint cafes, ghost tours at night, and the Fountain of Youth park (yes, Ponce de Leon’s legendary fountain). The mix of beachy modern fun and deep history on this trip shows Florida’s diverse character.
Tips: This is a fairly long drive, so consider splitting it over two days. Perhaps drive up to the Space Coast, stay overnight around Cocoa/Daytona, then continue to St. Augustine the next day. I-95 has service plazas and plenty of stops, but it’s a busy highway, drive defensively and be mindful of trucks. Tolls: the Beachline (528) to Cape Canaveral has tolls (around $2), so have SunPass or change ready (if you haven’t opted for the rental’s toll program). Weather-wise, afternoon storms can be common, but they’re usually brief. In summer, starting very early helps avoid both traffic and heat at places like Kennedy Space Center (which largely is outdoors). In St. Augustine, park at the visitor lots or downtown garage, much easier than trying to snag street parking in the narrow old-town streets. The charm of St. Augustine especially comes alive in the evening when it’s cooler and the historic buildings are lit, so it’s worth staying overnight if you can and strolling after dark. And yes, do try the local favorites: perhaps a Datil pepper hot sauce (a St. Augustine specialty) or some fresh caught shrimp on the waterfront. This road trip truly feels like traveling through time, from Florida’s space-age present to its colonial past.
Fort Lauderdale Car Rental Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Gas prices in Fort Lauderdale tend to run a tad below the U.S. average. At the moment, regular unleaded is roughly in the $3–$4 per gallon range (it can fluctuate with market conditions). Florida has lots of gas stations, and prices can be a bit higher right by the highways or in upscale areas, and cheaper further out. You’ll notice many stations like Wawa, RaceTrac, Shell, etc. As for your rental: almost all rentals are provided with a full tank and you are expected to return it full. This is the simplest, most cost-effective approach, you pay for the fuel you use at street prices. Make sure to fill up within a few miles of your drop-off location to avoid any refueling charges. There are plenty of gas stations near Fort Lauderdale Airport and around the city for convenience. If you don’t return the car full, the rental company will charge you for the missing gallons, often at a much higher per-gallon rate (sometimes $7-10/gal). They may also tack on a service fee. Not ideal! The rental counter may offer you a prepaid fuel option where you pay for a full tank upfront at a set price per gallon, generally, we advise against that unless you’re certain you’ll return the car truly empty (which is hard to time perfectly). It’s usually cheaper to just fill it yourself. So, plan a quick stop at a gas station as one of your last to-dos before returning the car. Also, when fueling, regular unleaded (87 octane) is fine for the vast majority of rental cars. If you rented a premium or specialty vehicle, check the fuel type, but almost all standard rentals run on regular gas. In short: gas up the car before drop-off to avoid extra charges, and enjoy relatively reasonable fuel costs in South Florida compared to many other parts of the world.
Yes, quite a few enjoyable drives! Here are some ideas: Ocean Drive (A1A), Simply driving along A1A up the coast can be beautiful. Head north from Fort Lauderdale Beach through Lauderdale-by-the-Sea up to Boca Raton for a laid-back coastal cruise (stop for ice cream or a seafood shack lunch by the sea). Las Olas Boulevard to Beach, Start downtown, drive Las Olas east over the Intracoastal Waterway (you’ll see yachts and waterfront mansions) straight to Fort Lauderdale Beach. It’s a short but classic drive, especially pretty at night with the skyline and bridge lights. Scenic Route to Miami, Instead of I-95, take Ocean Drive/A1A down through Hollywood, past Golden Beach’s mansions, and into Miami’s Collins Avenue, you’ll pass through Sunny Isles Beach and Bal Harbour. It’s stop-and-go in parts, but you’ll see so much scenery and beachfront. Everglades Parkway, Drive west on I-75 (Alligator Alley) and exit at Snake Road (Exit 49) for a side trip to the Big Cypress Seminole Reservation, there’s a scenic loop road (Cruickshank Trail) and the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum to learn about Seminole culture, plus Billie Swamp Safari if you want to drive a bit through wilderness. Florida Keys day trip, If you don’t want to go all the way to Key West, you can drive about 1.5 hours to Key Largo (the first Key) for a taste of the island life and be back by night. Another gem: Jupiter Island drive, about an hour north, but the drive along Beach Road on Jupiter Island (near Hobe Sound) is one of the most beautiful, lush canopy roads in Florida, lined with banyan trees and estates (you could loop that in if visiting Palm Beach/Jupiter area). Locally, even just driving out west on Griffin or Sheridan Road toward the Everglades at sunset can reward you with gorgeous sky colors and maybe a peek at some roosting birds. So yes, lots of scenic options, from beachfront urban to wild swamps. We’ve detailed a couple in the Road Trips section above (like the Keys drive, Everglades route). If you have something in mind, just ask us for specifics! Florida’s flat terrain means any drive can suddenly show off a big sky or water view; enjoy the ride.
It depends on your plans and preferences. If it’s just you or a couple and you’re mostly sticking to city and short trips, an economy or compact car will do the job and save you on gas. Parking a smaller car can be easier in tighter spots at the beach. If you’re traveling as a family or plan to do longer drives (like up to Orlando or down to the Keys), a midsize or standard sedan offers a bit more comfort and trunk space for luggage. Many visitors love renting a convertible in South Florida, a Mustang or Camaro convertible can be a fun choice for coastal cruising under the sun (just remember to use that sunscreen and secure your belongings when the top’s down!). For groups or if you have a lot of gear (golf clubs, beach coolers, etc.), consider an SUV or minivan. An SUV (like a Jeep Grand Cherokee or similar) gives you ample space and is great if you’re heading on any unpaved roads in the Everglades. A minivan is extremely convenient for larger families, sliding doors and lots of seating. Fuel prices in Florida are moderate (usually cheaper than the national average, currently around $3 per gallon for regular), so driving even a bigger vehicle isn’t too costly. One thing to factor is the season, in summer, every car will have air conditioning (a must), so no worries there. In terms of brand or model, all rentals will handle Florida’s terrain fine (it’s flat as a pancake). So it really comes down to what fits your crew and budget. If you’re undecided, sometimes upgrading at the counter is affordable if you see something you fancy. And if you rent an economy car but get the urge for that convertible when you arrive, ask, Florida locations often have a wide selection and you might snag a last-minute upgrade deal.
Generally, yes, Fort Lauderdale is more parking-friendly than some larger cities, but you may have to pay for it in popular areas. At Fort Lauderdale Beach, there are numerous public parking lots and garages along A1A and nearby streets. For example, the Las Olas Beach Garage and the Fort Lauderdale Beach Park lot are convenient spots near central beach areas (expect around $4/hour). Street parking with meters is also available on stretches of A1A and side streets, those can fill up on sunny weekends. Many meters now use apps like PayByPhone for convenience. Downtown Fort Lauderdale (Las Olas Blvd area) has city garages (often ~$2 per hour) and valet options near busy dining spots. If you visit Las Olas Boulevard for shopping/dining, parking on the street is limited but the parking garages at each end of Las Olas are a good bet. Attractions like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (right by the beach) have their own parking for a modest fee, and places like Sawgrass Mills Mall (if you’re heading there for shopping) have enormous free parking lots. One thing to note: around residential areas near the beach, you might see “Residential Permit Only” signs, don’t park there during restricted hours or you risk a ticket. For Port Everglades (cruise port), if you’re driving there, the port has parking garages by each terminal (around $15/day). In summary, Fort Lauderdale has plenty of parking; just be prepared to pay in tourist-heavy zones and always read the signs. A little patience goes a long way on busy beach days, but usually you’ll find a spot without too much circling.
Most likely, your rental car will be set up with an electronic toll system. In Florida, this is commonly via SunPass (the state’s toll pass). Rental companies either provide a physical SunPass transponder in the car or simply enroll the car’s license plate. When you drive through a toll lane marked for SunPass or Toll-By-Plate, it will register. The rental company will then charge your credit card for the tolls, plus a small daily fee on each day you incur a toll charge (often around $3.95 to $5.95 per day, and usually only on days you use a toll, up to a max per rental period). This saves you the hassle of stopping to pay (many toll roads have eliminated cash toll collection anyway). If you prefer, you can ask if the car can opt out and use your own SunPass transponder (if you have one), policies vary by company. Important: If you go through a toll without an authorized transponder or arrangement, it will be billed to the license plate and the rental company will pass the charge to you with an extra fee, which can be pricey. So it’s best to either use the rental’s toll program or stick to cash lanes (few remain) or non-toll roads. There are some stretches like the I-95 Express Lanes in Miami that require SunPass, avoid those if you haven’t enabled the rental’s toll service. In summary: It’s easiest to just use the rental’s built-in toll program for any toll roads around Fort Lauderdale, so you can cruise through and pay later seamlessly.