Ready to start your Rhode Island adventure? Use the search form above to compare real-time car rental rates across Rhode Island. Select your pickup location (from Providence T.F. Green Airport to downtown Providence or tourist hubs like Newport), choose your dates, and hit “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see offers from dozens of rental companies statewide from budget-friendly compacts to spacious SUVs and vans. Booking is fast and secure, with most rentals allowing “reserve now, pay later” and free cancellation if your plans change. Lock in an amazing Rhode Island car rental deal now, and you’ll be all set to roam from the capital to the coast without hassle.
Introduction: Welcome to Rhode Island, the “Ocean State” known for its stunning coastline, historic mansions, and charming small towns. Having a rental car in Rhode Island is the key to experiencing every corner of America’s smallest state at your own pace. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in Rhode Island. We’ve combined unbeatable rental deals with insider local tips so you can book with confidence and hit the road prepared. Whether you’re flying into Providence’s T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, planning a beach getaway to Narragansett, or touring Newport’s Cliff Walk and Gilded Age mansions, we’ll help you find the perfect car quickly, easily, and affordably. Get ready to explore Rhode Island on your schedule, with extra savings in your pocket and the freedom to go anywhere from Providence’s vibrant downtown to the lighthouse-dotted shores whenever the mood strikes.
See More Beyond the Cities: Public transit in Rhode Island is limited outside of Providence. Many of the state’s best spots (like Newport’s seaside mansions, the beaches of South County, or colonial towns like Bristol) aren’t easily reached without a car. With a rental, you can venture beyond the small downtown bus routes and explore hidden gems on your own timetable. Want to drive out to Block Island’s ferry landing or seek out the best clam shacks along Narragansett Bay? A car makes it possible in a single trip.
Iconic Scenic Drives: Rhode Island may be small, but it offers classic New England drives. Cruise along Newport’s Ocean Drive with panoramic ocean views, follow Route 1A past Victorian beach towns and lighthouses, or take a fall foliage drive through rural Washington County. These experiences are best enjoyed by car you can stop for chowder at a waterfront shack or snap photos at a cover-worthy overlook whenever inspiration strikes.
Freedom & Flexibility: No train schedules or tour buses to worry about you’re in charge. Want to detour to a quaint vineyard in Little Compton, spend extra time at a state park, or skip crowded group tours? With a car, you set the itinerary. Rhode Island’s attractions are spread out despite its size; having your own wheels lets you cover multiple destinations (Providence to Newport to Jamestown) in one day that would be impractical by other means.
Seasonal Comfort: New England weather can be unpredictable, but a car keeps you comfortable year-round. In summer, toss your beach gear in the trunk and head to Charlestown’s secluded shores or drive to a cool oceanfront campground without sweating on a bus. In winter, you’ll appreciate the warmth and safety of a car when visiting family for the holidays or exploring festive Newport—no waiting outside in the cold for limited trains. With a rental, you can also safely stow coats, beach chairs, and souvenirs as you explore.
Time-Saving Travel: Rhode Island might be small, but relying on infrequent buses or coordinating rideshares can eat up time. With a car, a day trip from Providence could include a morning hike in Lincoln Woods, an afternoon tour of Newport’s Breakers mansion, and an evening seafood dinner in Narragansett all in one go. That flexibility simply isn’t possible on fixed schedules. If you plan to explore beyond a single neighborhood, a rental car will maximize your time and let you see more in each day.
Our Rhode Island Car Rental Benefits (AVR Advantages)
Huge Statewide Selection: When you book with AirportVanRental, you get access to vehicles from all major rental brands across Rhode Island. From economy cars perfect for Providence’s city streets to 8-passenger vans for that big family reunion in Newport, we’ve got it all. Thanks to our network of multiple suppliers, you’ll find thousands of vehicles available in the state. Need a hybrid for a long scenic drive, or a luxury sedan for a special occasion in Providence? No problem browse and choose the exact type of car that fits your plans.
Best Rate Guarantee: We continuously scan rates from across Rhode Island to ensure you get the lowest price. Because we aggregate deals from so many providers, you’ll see special offers here that you won’t find on single-brand sites. If there’s a weekend sale at the airport or a long-term discount at a neighborhood branch, we highlight it so you never miss a bargain. Found a better rate elsewhere? Let us know we’ll match it. Saving you money is our priority.
No Pre-Payment & Free Cancellation: Travel plans can change, especially in New England where weather or events might shift your itinerary. Most of our Rhode Island rentals do not require upfront payment reserve now and pay at pick-up. Cancel anytime up to 48 hours before pick-up with zero fees. This flexibility means you can book early to grab a great deal and adjust later if needed, without stress. (We think flexibility is a must why should you be locked in if your itinerary shifts?)
Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees: The price you see is the price you pay. Rentals in Rhode Island include taxes and any mandatory surcharges (e.g. Rhode Island sales tax 7%, airport concession fees, etc.), and we display all those charges upfront in your quote. No last-minute surprises at the counter ever. Planning to use Newport’s toll bridge or park at a state beach? We’ll explain common local fees (like electronic toll charges or state park parking costs) in your booking details, so you’re prepared. We hate hidden fees as much as you do, so everything is clear and honest for peace of mind.
Unlimited Mileage on Virtually All Rentals: Worried about mileage caps? Relax nearly all rentals we offer in Rhode Island come with unlimited miles. Whether you’re driving 5 miles or 500 miles, you won’t pay extra for distance. Want to do a round-trip from Providence to Cape Cod and back, or even drive into Massachusetts or Connecticut? Go for it no mileage fees. (If a rare exception vehicle has a cap, we’ll flag it clearly before you book.) Feel free to roam New England without watching the odometer.
Local Expertise & Support: We’re not just a booking site we’re your travel ally. Our team knows Rhode Island, and we infuse local knowledge into this page from driving law tips to road trip ideas below. Need advice on beating summer beach traffic or where to find a convenient gas station before returning your car? We have the answers. With AirportVanRental, you also get 24/7 customer support. Stuck in I-95 traffic and worried about making your return time? Give us a call. Not sure about Rhode Island’s toll system or need to extend a day? We’re here to help. You’ll drive with confidence knowing help and insider info are just a call away.
Top Rhode Island Car Rental Deals
Note: “From” rates are based on rentals in major hubs like Providence (PVD Airport) during low season. Prices may be higher in summer beach season (July–August) or during big events (Newport Folk Festival, WaterFire weekends in Providence). Always search with your exact dates and pickup location to see up-to-date rates we update this list frequently to reflect current deals and seasonal specials. Keep in mind, Rhode Island rentals include roughly 15–18% in taxes/fees (7% state sales tax + airport or local surcharges), but our quotes show you the total price with all mandatory fees included. Book early for peak summer weekends, and you’ll lock in the best price (with free cancellation if plans change).
Driving in Rhode Island: What to Know
Driving in Rhode Island can be very rewarding you’ll experience everything from Providence’s urban streets to tranquil coastal byways in a single trip. To help you stay safe and stress-free, here are key Rhode Island driving tips, rules, and quirks to be aware of:
Traffic & Rush Hours: Rhode Island’s highways can get busy, especially around Providence. Weekday rush hours typically run 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM on I-95 and I-195 through the capital. If possible, plan long drives during off-peak times or use navigation apps to find less congested routes around the city. Summer weekends can also see heavy traffic on routes to the shore for example, Friday afternoons heading south toward Narragansett or Newport can be slow-going, and Sunday evenings returning north to Providence often have jams. Patience and giving yourself a time cushion will go a long way.
City Driving & Parking: Providence’s downtown streets are a mix of one-ways and odd angles (a legacy of colonial times, though the city is easier to navigate than Boston). Drive attentively and consider using GPS, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area the I-95/I-195 interchange by Providence can be confusing for newcomers with its left exits. Parking in Providence is generally easier than in larger cities: meters are usually $1–2/hour (enforced 8AM–9PM) and plenty of parking garages are available (the Providence Place Mall garage, for example, offers long-term parking around $15/day). In residential areas like Federal Hill or College Hill, watch for permit-only street parking signs. Newport, on the other hand, can be challenging in summer waterfront lots and street spots fill up quickly on weekends, and many require payment or resident permits. Always read signage before leaving your car. In beach towns, expect parking fees ($10–20) at state beaches during the summer season. The good news: parking is free or nominal in most small Rhode Island towns, and in the off-season you’ll find plenty of open spaces even in Newport.
Tolls (Cashless System): Rhode Island has one toll road for cars: the Newport Pell Bridge (Route 138 between Jamestown and Newport). There are no cash toll booths it’s all electronic. If you have an E-ZPass transponder from home, bring it; it will work on the Newport Bridge (and all over the Northeast). If not, don’t worry: cameras will photograph your license plate and bill the toll to the car’s owner (the rental company). The rental company will then charge you the toll, often plus a small admin fee. (Alternatively, you can opt into your rental agency’s toll program for a flat daily rate check with them if you plan multiple crossings.) The bridge toll is about $4 for a standard car with out-of-state plates. Aside from Newport’s bridge, there are no tolls on Rhode Island highways for passenger vehicles. (A trucks-only toll program on certain highways was suspended in 2022.) Essentially, you can drive all over RI without tolls except when heading into Newport and even there, it’s straightforward with the electronic system. We recommend checking your rental’s policy on tolls; many providers automatically enroll you and simply bill the card on file for any tolls you incur.
“Rotaries” (Roundabouts): You may encounter a few circular intersections (rotaries) in Rhode Island, especially in suburban areas. Traffic already in the rotary has the right of way; vehicles entering must yield. Approach slowly, yield to cars on your left in the circle, then enter when clear. Use your turn signal to indicate when you’re exiting. Rhode Island’s rotaries are generally smaller than Massachusetts’ famous ones, but the same rule applies: yield on entry. If you drive through the Jamestown and Newport areas, you’ll hit a couple of these roundabouts just stay calm and yield, and you’ll be fine.
Rules of the Road: In Rhode Island (as in all U.S. states), drive on the right-hand side. Seat belts are mandatory for all drivers and passengers. Right turns on red are allowed (after a full stop) unless a sign specifically says “No Turn on Red.” Providence has some intersections posted with “No Turn on Red,” especially downtown obey those signs to avoid a ticket. Interestingly, Rhode Island is one of the states that allows left turns on red if you are turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street (after stopping and yielding to any traffic). This situation might come up in downtown Providence’s one-way grid. It’s legal, but only do it when you’re sure of the road configuration and it’s clear if in doubt, it’s always fine to wait for green. Also note, Rhode Island enforces a hands-free law: it’s illegal to hold or use a handheld phone while driving (even at stoplights). Use Bluetooth or speakerphone if you must make a call, or pull over safely. Police do ticket drivers for texting or holding phones, with fines starting around $100.
Weather & Seasonal Hazards: If you’re visiting in winter (roughly December through March), be prepared for snow and ice at times. Rhode Island crews are quite efficient at plowing and treating roads after snowstorms, especially on interstates and main routes. Still, driving in snow requires caution: slow down, leave extra space for braking, and avoid sudden turns. Rental cars will have all-season tires, which are usually sufficient for moderate snow common in RI (dedicated snow tires are rare on rentals). In the event of a major nor’easter blizzard, authorities may temporarily discourage travel if conditions are severe, consider waiting until roads are cleared (or enjoy an extra chowder by the fireplace before driving!). The good news: coastal Rhode Island often has milder winter weather than inland New England, and big storms are infrequent. Between storms, winter driving on clear, sunny days can be perfectly pleasant (and beautiful, with snow-dusted landscapes). Just allow a bit of extra time and take it slow if roads are slick. In summer, keep an eye out for sudden thunderstorms pull over if rain is torrential, as streets can briefly flood in low-lying areas. And no matter the season, watch for wildlife on rural roads at dawn/dusk deer are common in wooded areas like Exeter and West Greenwich.
Driving Etiquette: Rhode Island drivers, like many in the Northeast, can be a mix of polite and assertive. You might encounter the occasional “Rhode Island slide” (merging without a full stop) or creative lane changes in Providence. Don’t be intimidated drive confidently but not aggressively. Use your turn signals (even if others don’t always), and be prepared for quick starts when a light turns green. Always yield to pedestrians at crosswalks; state law requires it and locals do step out expecting cars to stop, especially in city centers and college areas. If someone lets you merge in heavy traffic, a quick wave of thanks is the norm. Overall, if you follow the rules and stay alert, you’ll find driving in Rhode Island is manageable and often enjoyable distances are short, scenery is great, and you’re never far from the next interesting stop.
By following these tips and using common sense, you’ll find that driving in Rhode Island is not only feasible but the best way to discover all the state has to offer. Keep a map or GPS handy, enjoy the journey, and get ready to uncover Rhode Island’s delights far beyond what any tour bus could show you!
Popular Road Trips from Rhode Island
One of the greatest perks of renting a car in Rhode Island is the ability to embark on amazing road trips. From coastal cruises to multi-state adventures, the Ocean State is a perfect launching pad for New England explorations. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to inspire your travels (feel free to use these as starting points and customize as you like):
Highlights: Start in Providence and drive 30 miles south to Newport, the crown jewel of Rhode Island’s coast. In Newport, tour the famous Gilded Age mansions like The Breakers and Marble House along Bellevue Avenue, or walk the Cliff Walk for stunning ocean views juxtaposed with historic architecture. Downtown Newport’s wharves are filled with boutiques and seafood eateries perfect for a bowl of clam chowder by the harbor. After enjoying Newport, continue over the Newport Bridge (Route 138) west to Jamestown for a quick stop at Beavertail State Park, where a picturesque lighthouse sits atop rocky shores. From Jamestown, head west then south on Route 1 to Narragansett (about 30 miles). Narragansett offers beautiful sandy beaches (like Narragansett Town Beach or Sand Hill Cove) and a classic New England seaside town vibe. Stroll the scenic seawall near The Towers (remnants of an 1880s casino), or catch the ferry to Block Island from nearby Point Judith if you have time (the ferry is a one-hour trip to an idyllic island retreat). Wrap up your day with fresh lobster rolls in Galilee (a working fishing port in Narragansett) as the sun sets. Then, it’s an easy 30-mile drive north on Route 1 and I-95 back to Providence.
Pro Tip: In summer, plan to hit Newport early in the day parking can be tight around midday, and the Newport Pell Bridge collects tolls in both directions (have your E-ZPass or rental toll program ready). On sunny weekends, Narragansett’s beaches fill up by late morning, so consider visiting Newport then a late-afternoon beach stop when crowds thin. If visiting in the off-season, you’ll find both Newport and Narragansett delightfully calm, and you can drive right up to popular viewpoints that are bustling in July.
Highlights: Head east from Providence on I-195 into Massachusetts (about 40 miles) to reach Plymouth, MA “America’s Hometown.” In Plymouth, history comes alive: you can see Plymouth Rock on the shore (the legendary landing site of the Pilgrims in 1620) and visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museums (a living history museum re-creating a 17th-century Pilgrim village and Wampanoag Native homesite). After absorbing some early colonial history, drive south about 15 miles to Cape Cod Canal region. You’ll cross the Sagamore Bridge or Bourne Bridge onto Cape Cod, an iconic summer destination. On the Upper Cape, consider stopping in the town of Sandwich, the Cape’s oldest town, for a stroll down Main Street with its quaint shops and the Sandwich Glass Museum. If you’re up for more, continue another 20 minutes into Hyannis, the hub of the mid-Cape. In Hyannis, you can visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum to catch some local Camelot-era history or wander the bustling harborfront where ferries depart for Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Even without taking a ferry, you’ll enjoy the salty air and maybe spot the Kennedy Compound from a distance in Hyannis Port. End your Cape excursion with a relaxing walk along a nearby beach like Kalmus Beach, or grab ice cream on Main Street. From the Cape Cod area, head back to Providence by retracing your route (Hyannis to Providence is about 70 miles, roughly 1.5 hours).
Pro Tip: Traffic to Cape Cod can be heavy in summer. If you’re doing this trip in July or August, try to leave Providence early (before 8 AM) to beat the rush onto the Cape, and plan to depart the Cape for home by late afternoon or after dinner to avoid the peak congestion times crossing back over the canal bridges. Also, keep in mind Massachusetts has all-electronic tolls if you return via I-90 or other tolled routes, toll cameras will charge the rental car (your rental company will bill you later unless you use your own E-ZPass). However, I-195 and the Cape bridges are toll-free, so this route is easy on the wallet.
Highlights: This spectacular road trip is perfect if you have a couple of days and want to see the diversity of New England landscapes. From Providence, drive north on I-95 and I-93 for about 3.5 hours to New Hampshire’s White Mountains region. Aim for North Conway, NH, a charming town and gateway to the White Mountain National Forest (about 180 miles from Providence). In North Conway, you’ll find outlet shops and restaurants set against a mountain backdrop, but the real star is nature: drive the Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112) heading west from Conway through the heart of the White Mountains. This 34-mile scenic byway offers stunning views of foliage (late September to mid-October is peak leaf-peeping) and numerous pull-offs for photos of rivers and peaks. You could detour up the Mount Washington Auto Road (if weather permits) for a bucket-list drive to the Northeast’s highest summit at 6,288 feet the panoramic views are unforgettable. After exploring the mountains, head east on Route 302 into Maine and make your way to Portland, ME (about 60 miles from North Conway). Portland is a vibrant coastal city known for its historic Old Port district and fantastic dining (treat yourself to fresh Maine lobster or chowder downtown). It’s a great place to spend the night. On day two, drive from Portland down the coast on I-95 back toward Rhode Island (~160 miles). If time allows, stop in Portsmouth, NH, along the way this colonial port town (right on the NH/ME border) has beautiful architecture and a lively waterfront, great for a lunch break. Then continue south, passing back through the Boston area (you can skirt downtown via I-95 to avoid city traffic). Soon you’ll be back in Providence to complete the loop. In total, you’ll have experienced mountain vistas, charming small towns, and rocky coastlines all in one trip.
Pro Tip: This loop is especially popular in autumn for fall foliage try to schedule between late September and mid-October for the best colors in the White Mountains (Rhode Island’s leaves change a bit later, into late October). Weekends can draw heavy “leaf peeper” traffic in the White Mountains, so mid-week travel is a secret for a more peaceful drive. Also, weather in the mountains can be much cooler pack layers. If traveling in winter, check road conditions; the Kancamagus Highway is well-plowed but can be icy. And if you’re not up for the full loop, you can shorten the trip: for example, do a Providence→North Conway→Providence itinerary or even just venture to southern New Hampshire and back. With unlimited mileage on your rental, you have the freedom to adjust the journey to your time frame.
Quick-Reference Info Box: Rhode Island Car Rental at a Glance
Frequently Asked Questions
Possibly, but it depends on the rental company and location. Most major rental locations (especially at airports like Providence PVD) prefer a credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit. A credit card makes the process smoother the agency will place a hold (often $200 or more) on it. Some companies will accept a debit card (Visa or MasterCard logo) but often require additional steps: a credit check, proof of return travel (like your flight itinerary), or placing a larger cash deposit. Also, with debit cards, rentals might be limited to certain car classes and you usually cannot rent luxury vehicles. Tip: If you plan to use a debit card, call the specific location in advance to verify their policy. Ensure the debit card has enough funds to cover the hold. Prepaid cards or cash are generally not accepted at pick-up (though you can usually pay cash at return once the hold is released). Our recommendation: use a credit card if at all possible for car rentals in RI to avoid any hassles.
Rhode Island has very few tolls. In fact, the only toll for passenger cars is on the Newport Pell Bridge (which connects Jamestown and Newport). All tolls in RI are collected electronically there are no cash booths. Here’s how to handle it: • If you have an E-ZPass transponder from home, you can use it in the rental car (just make sure it’s properly mounted, and some rental companies ask you to register the rental’s license plate to your E-ZPass account). E-ZPass from any state will work in Rhode Island, and you’ll be charged the normal toll (around $2 each way for RI E-ZPass, $4 each way for out-of-state E-ZPass). • If you don’t have a transponder, you can opt into the rental car company’s toll program at pick-up. Typically, they charge a small daily fee (around $3.95–$5.95 per day you actually incur a toll, often capped at a maximum per rental) plus the actual tolls. This allows you to use the E-ZPass lanes and have tolls billed conveniently. • Or, you can simply drive through the electronic toll and let the system bill via the license plate. The rental company will receive the toll notice and then charge your credit card on file for the toll amount plus an admin fee (if you didn’t opt into their program). The admin fee for pay-by-plate can be around $15–$25 on top of the toll, so it can be pricier. For just one or two bridge crossings, you might not mind the plate billing fee, but if you plan to cross multiple times, it’s usually cheaper to take the rental’s toll package. Note: If you venture into neighboring states, you’ll encounter toll highways (for example, the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) or certain toll bridges in Connecticut). The rental car toll program will cover those as well. The key is don’t avoid seeing Rhode Island’s sights over a minor toll the system is easy. We provide information in your rental agreement about how toll charges will be handled, so you won’t be caught off guard.
Driving in downtown Providence is moderately easy compared to bigger cities. The city’s layout has a mix of one-way streets and some quirks (like any historic East Coast city), but it’s not overly chaotic. If your plan is to stay only within downtown Providence and College Hill, you might manage without a car by using walking, rideshares, or the local RIPTA buses for short trips. Providence has a compact downtown and areas like Westminster Street, Waterplace Park, and Federal Hill (the Italian dining district) are relatively close together. However, if you want maximum flexibility or plan to explore beyond the immediate city (say, visiting Newport, going to beaches, or even just reaching attractions in Warwick or Lincoln), a rental car is very useful. It lets you reach places that public transit won’t easily take you. A common strategy for visitors: enjoy Providence’s core on foot for a day or two, then rent a car for the days you plan excursions (we have downtown pickup locations for this scenario). Parking in Providence, as mentioned, is not too difficult relative to cities like Boston there are garages and reasonable rates. Many hotels in Providence offer on-site parking (sometimes for a fee). In short, if you’re sticking 100% to downtown, you could skip the car for those days. But for any plans beyond the city center and to truly experience Rhode Island’s broader offerings renting a car is the way to go. And locals? They rent from us too for weekend getaways or when their car is in the shop, so driving around Providence is definitely doable. If you do drive in the city, just stay alert for one-way signs and pedestrians, and you’ll be fine!
Beyond the obvious attractions in Providence (WaterFire, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Brown University campus), having a car opens up a treasure trove of day trips in Rhode Island. A few favorites include: • Newport Cliff Walk & Mansions: Drive to Newport and cruise Bellevue Avenue, then park and walk the Cliff Walk for ocean views on one side and grand mansions on the other. Don’t miss The Breakers mansion tour with a car, you can easily hit multiple mansions in a day. • South County Beaches: With a car, you can beach-hop along the Rhode Island coast from Scarborough Beach to East Matunuck. Each beach has its own vibe (family-friendly vs. surf spot). Without a car, these would be very hard to reach. • Blackstone Valley Drive: Head north on Route 122 through the Blackstone River Valley. It’s a scenic drive through mill towns like Woonsocket and Lincoln. Stop at Slater Mill in Pawtucket (the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution) an easy trip with a car that most skip if they don’t have wheels. • Jamestown & Beavertail State Park: Drive over the Jamestown Bridge off I-95 to the quiet island of Jamestown. Beavertail State Park at the island’s end offers one of New England’s most beautiful lighthouse panoramas. You can only get there by car. • Block Island: Okay, you can’t drive to Block Island (ferry required), but you can drive to the Point Judith ferry terminal in Narragansett and even take your car on certain ferry trips (reserve in advance) to explore Block Island’s two lighthouses and countless hidden beaches by road. Many visitors go as foot passengers, but bringing a car via ferry for a day is an adventure in itself (just be sure your rental contract allows island travel some may not). All these spots (and more) become easily accessible with a car. Rhode Island packs a lot of beauty and history into a small area take advantage of your wheels to see it all!