How long does it take to drive from JFK to Manhattan?
Depending on traffic, the drive takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. The Van Wyck Expressway and Midtown Tunnel are often congested, especially during peak hours.
This location is a walk-in location, contact details for this location are below.
Car Rental at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
Experience the ultimate convenience and reliability with U-Save Car Rental in New York. Our premium car rental service caters to all your transportation needs, ensuring a smooth journey throughout the Empire State. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Manhattan or venturing into the picturesque landscapes upstate, our diverse fleet of vehicles has you covered.
With U-Save, you can expect top-notch customer service, competitive rates, and a seamless rental process that saves you time and hassle. Discover the freedom to roam and make the most of your New York adventure with U-Save Car Rental. Reserve your vehicle today and elevate your travel experience to new heights.
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Luxury Car
Indulge in opulence and cutting-edge technology with luxury vehicles that redefine elegance and deliver an unparalleled driving experience
Compact
Nimble, fuel-efficient, and perfect for urban life, offering practicality without compromising on style and modern features
Mini Van
Spacious, versatile, and family-friendly, minivans offer comfort and convenience for on-the-go adventures and seamless daily commutes
Standard SUV
Explore the comfort and versatility of standard SUV rentals. Perfect for family trips or any adventure, our reliable SUVs are ready to hit the road
Pickup Truck
Unlock the power of pickup trucks for your hauling tasks. Rent a sturdy pickup truck for versatile cargo transportation. Efficient and dependable
Sprinter
Marrying style with practicality. Great for road trips or business ventures. Spacious, efficient, and highly adaptable. Start your adventure now!
Tips for renting a car at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Before you rent:
Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.
When you collect your Vehicle:
Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.
Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.
Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.
While you rent:
Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.
When you return your vehicle:
Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.
Drive on the right side of the road
USD is the local currency
Average temperatures are 27°F (-3°C) - 84°F (29°C)
Always accommodating, friendly, efficient and reasonable. Excellent value for the cost.
We found the process easy, quick, and pleasant. We would rent with U-Save again and would recommend it to others.
Good pricing, good customer service, car was as advertised, return is easy, shuttle is efficient.
Driving in JFK New York– Local Rules, Tips & Environment
Driving from JFK into New York City or the surrounding region can be intimidating for first-timers, but it’s manageable with preparation. From the airport, you’ll connect to the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678), Belt Parkway, and Grand Central Parkway, which link to major highways like I-495 (Long Island Expressway) and I-95.
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and most cars are automatic. Speed limits are posted in miles per hour (mph):
25 mph (40 km/h) in NYC streets
35–45 mph (56–72 km/h) on arterial roads
55–65 mph (89–105 km/h) on highways and interstates
Be aware: NYC has some of the strictest traffic laws in the U.S. Speeding, blocking intersections, failing to yield to pedestrians, or parking violations can result in expensive tickets or tows. Right turns on red are not allowed in NYC, unless posted.
NYC driving culture is fast-paced and aggressive. Expect frequent horn honking, tight lane changes, and unpredictable taxi/Uber movements. Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps, especially to avoid toll roads or construction delays. Be cautious in school zones and watch for speed cameras, which are widespread.
Toll roads and bridges (like the RFK Bridge, Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, or Throgs Neck Bridge) use cashless tolling, billed via E-ZPass. Most rental cars are equipped with a toll transponder, and charges will be added to your final bill.
Parking in NYC can be extremely difficult and expensive. Use paid parking garages, especially in Manhattan, or book a spot in advance via apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz. Avoid street parking unless you’re familiar with alternate-side rules and local signage.
If you’re heading out of the city toward the Hamptons, Bear Mountain, or the Catskills, roads open up and driving becomes easier and scenic. In suburban areas, driving is more relaxed, and parking is generally free or affordable.
Van Rental in New York
We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even e luxury car – we got you!
Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather.
Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans.
Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!
FAQs About Driving & Renting a Car around JFK, NYC
Where do I pick up a rental car at JFK?
Take the AirTrain to Federal Circle Station, then follow signs to the rental car shuttles for your provider.
Are tolls common around JFK and NYC?
Yes. Most bridges, tunnels, and parkways are toll roads. Rental vehicles are usually equipped with E-ZPass, and tolls will be billed automatically.
Is it safe to drive in New York City as a tourist?
Yes, but be prepared for aggressive traffic, tight streets, and limited parking. Consider avoiding rush hours (7–10 AM and 3–7 PM) when possible.
Can I turn right on red in New York City?
No — right turns on red are not permitted in NYC unless a sign specifically allows it.
