Rent a Car in Cody, Wyoming and Explore Yellowstone for Less

Compare competitive rates, choose airport or downtown pickup, and use this complete guide to avoid hidden fees, pick the right insurance, and drive confidently around Cody and Yellowstone.

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Car Rental Guide for Cody, Wyoming

Renting a car in Cody is one of the easiest ways to explore Yellowstone’s East Entrance, Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and nearby scenic highways on your own schedule. Inventory can be limited—especially in summer—so booking early typically yields better prices and more vehicle choices. Expect longer distances between towns, limited late-night services, and seasonal weather (snow/ice outside peak summer), which can affect vehicle selection and driving plans.

Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) – Cody

Closest airport to Cody and a convenient place to pick up a rental car if you’re flying in. Pros: fastest transition from flight to road trip, good for tight itineraries, and typically straightforward returns. Cons: fewer counters and vehicles than major hubs, shorter operating hours, and prices can rise during peak travel seasons.

Downtown Cody (Sheridan Ave / Central Cody)

A practical option if you’re already staying in town or arriving by tour/shuttle. Pros: easy walk/ride from many hotels and attractions, sometimes less airport-related surcharges, and flexible for multi-day stays. Cons: limited fleet size, may require arranging a ride for early pickups/late returns, and weekend/holiday hours can be reduced.

West Cody (US-14/16/20 Corridor Near Lodging)

Good for travelers staying on the edges of town with quick access to highway routes toward Yellowstone and the Bighorn Basin. Pros: convenient highway access and easier parking/vehicle pickup. Cons: locations may be spread out, rideshare availability can be inconsistent, and walkability is lower than central downtown.

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What do you need to rent a car in Cody?

Renting a car in Cody is quite convenient, but there can be some specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.

Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full, physical, valid U.S. driving licence with no major endorsements. In most cases, the licence must have been held for at least 1 year; where not explicitly stated, standard eligibility with a full licence applies.
Notes: For some offers, renters who indicate a country of residence outside the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required in all cases. Accepted credit cards (varies by offer) include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB, and sometimes UnionPay. Some offers also accept debit cards (typically Visa or MasterCard, sometimes Discover/AMEX) for deposit/payment. No embossing is required. Usually one card is sufficient. E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required for some offers.
Age requirements: Typical eligible driving age ranges from 20–80 or 21–80, with some offers up to 99 and some starting from 25. Where young-driver fees apply, they are generally charged for drivers 20–24 or 21–24, for example about $25.00–$27.00 per day (plus applicable tax) as stated in the specific offer. Some offers restrict renters under 25 from renting luxury cars, minivans, 12‑passenger vans, specialty cars, full‑size SUVs, and premium SUVs, and may require any additional drivers to be at least 25.

Driving licence: The main and any additional drivers must present a full, physical driving licence with no major endorsements, generally held for at least 1 year. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original Driving License in Latin/Roman alphabet (e.g. English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, etc.) without an International Driving Permit (IDP) if the licence is already in Latin/Roman script
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP is only a translation; the original licence must also be presented. Photocopies or scans are not accepted
• Original South Korea Driving License (English version) with English translation provided on the back of the licence.
Notes: For some offers, renters who indicate a country of residence outside the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.
Form of ID: A valid passport is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required in all cases. Accepted credit cards (varies by offer) include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB, and sometimes UnionPay. Some offers also accept debit cards (typically Visa or MasterCard, sometimes Discover/AMEX) for deposit/payment. No embossing is required. Usually one card is sufficient. E‑voucher or printed voucher may be required for some offers.
Age requirements: Typical eligible driving age ranges from 20–80 or 21–80, with some offers up to 99 and some starting from 25. Where young-driver fees apply, they are generally charged for drivers 20–24 or 21–24, for example about $25.00–$27.00 per day (plus applicable tax) as stated in the specific offer. Some offers restrict renters under 25 from renting luxury cars, minivans, 12‑passenger vans, specialty cars, full‑size SUVs, and premium SUVs, and may require any additional drivers to be at least 25.

Choose Your Ride

Find the perfect vehicle for your trip. Compare options below.

Airport Pickup (COD)

Downtown Pickup

Fastest Start for Yellowstone and Scenic Drives

Picking up at Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) is ideal if you’re flying into Cody and want to hit the road immediately. Inventory is focused on traveler needs, returns are simple, and you can often align pickup/return with flight times—just watch for limited hours and peak-season pricing.

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Cody (COD) Car Rentals: Real Reviews from Real Travelers

Discover honest ratings from real customers who rented cars in Cody, Wyoming. Make informed choices for your Yellowstone trip.

Rating	Avg. Daily Rate	Pickup Method/Distance	Security deposit	Key Advantages
2.9 17,000+ reviews	$124	In terminal, Walk to counter	$981 - $1,063	●Gold membership loyalty program ●Professional and friendly staff ●Quick service recovery process
2.1 3300+ reviews	$156	Shuttle bus	Low deposit	●Budget-friendly rental options ●Easy pickup and return process ●Friendly staff at select locations
1.8 3700+ reviews	$156	Shuttle bus	Low deposit	●Friendly and Professional Staff ●Clean and Reliable Vehicles ●Quick and Efficient Service
1.3 95 reviews	$103	In terminal, Walk to counter	$490 - $991	●Competitive online pricing available ●Easy pickup and dropoff process ●Helpful staff at select locations

*Rating and review data are sourced from Trustpilot. Policy details may vary by location and vehicle type. Please confirm at the time of booking.

Data source: QEEQ Car Rental

Last updated: Jun. 18 2026

Essential Rental Hub

Everything you need to know before you drive off. Select a topic to get the full brakdown.

Stress-Free Guide to Fueling Your Rental Car in the USA

This guide provides a step-by-step approach for international visitors on how to fuel up a rental car in the USA, covering fuel types, payment methods, and essential tips for a stress-free experience.

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Ultimate USA car rental guide avoid hidden fees insurance traps and extra charges

Discover how to avoid hidden car rental fees in the USA with a practical step by step strategy. Learn the real cost of CDW LDW SLI and PAI insurance, how to use third party coverage like QEEQ full protection, and when credit card coverage works. Understand fuel policy tricks like prepaid fuel vs full to full, airport concession surcharges, young driver and additional driver fees, and expensive extras such as GPS and child seats. Get clear guidance on handling toll roads without overpriced transponder packages and follow a detailed checklist for booking, pickup, and return so the price you book is the price you pay on your US road trip.

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Platform Insights

Car Rental Expert Advice

By QEEQ Platform Expert Team

Expertise Metrics

Platform Recognition

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023&2024

Booking Volume

Review Quality

10,000+ verified 5-star reviews

Market Experience

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Expertise Verification

QEEQ data verified against local official data sources

Key Expert Insights

Platform Analysis

"Airport pickups dominate US car rentals at 65%, with Enterprise-Hertz-Avis controlling 94% market share. Cody Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) serves as primary rental hub, while downtown locations capture 25% for pre-booked pickups."

Booking Patterns

"US car rentals grew 19.4% in 2023 with 48M renters, 74% for leisure. SUV bookings increased 18% for regional tourism, driven by national park demand. Summer peak sees 38% demand surge; average rental duration is 4.8 days for leisure."

Customer Pain Points

"Hidden fees and aggressive upselling affect 45% of US renters, with 70% reporting confusion over CDW/LDW insurance coverage options at pickup counters, the top customer complaint nationally."

Data Sources

QEEQ internal booking databse
ConsumerAffairs - Car Rental Industry Statistics
Grand View Research - U.S. Car Rental Market
Bureau of Transportation Statistics - Rental Car Operations at US Airports
Grand View Research - U.S. Car Rental Market
American Car Rental Association - Market Trends Report
KAYAK - Best Time to Rent a Car
USA Today - Car Rental Rage Investigation
Consumer Reports - Car Rental Ratings
J.D. Power - Car Rental Satisfaction Study

Popular Routes & Road Trips From Cody, Wyoming

Scenic Drive Routes:

Cody to Yellowstone (East Entrance) via Wapiti Valley

National park gateway scenic drive1 hr 15 min–2 hr (one way, Cody to Yellowstone East Entrance)

The classic drive from Cody into Yellowstone follows the North Fork of the Shoshone River through Wapiti Valley, with big mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings. It’s the most straightforward way to reach Yellowstone from Cody and works well as an early start route for geysers and wildlife watching inside the park.

Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Shoshone National Forest (Wapiti Valley pullouts), Pahaska Tepee (historic lodge area), Yellowstone National Park East Entrance, Fishing Bridge area (inside Yellowstone)

Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway Loop: Cody to Red Lodge via Chief Joseph & Beartooth Highways

High-alpine mountain highway loop (seasonal)5–7 hr driving time (loop), plus stops

One of the West’s most dramatic road loops: climb the switchbacks of the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, then continue onto the Beartooth Highway’s high tundra plateaus and overlooks. Best in summer and early fall when roads are open; expect rapidly changing weather at elevation.

Dead Indian Pass Overlook, Chief Joseph Scenic Byway viewpoints, Beartooth Pass summit area, Rock Creek Vista Point, Red Lodge, Montana

Cody to Thermopolis Hot Springs via Wind River Canyon

Relaxation + canyon drive1 hr 45 min–2 hr 15 min (one way)

A rewarding day drive to soak in naturally heated mineral water at Hot Springs State Park. The route includes wide-open basins and the striking cliffs of Wind River Canyon, with multiple pullouts for photos and short walks.

Hot Springs State Park, Star Plunge (Thermopolis), Wyoming Dinosaur Center, Wind River Canyon Scenic Pullouts, Boysen State Park (nearby detour)

Popular Day Trips:

Buffalo Bill Center of the West + Downtown Cody

2–5 hr

A convenient in-town itinerary featuring world-class Western art and history museums, then a walkable mix of shops, coffee, and local eats in downtown Cody.

Old Trail Town + Cody Night Rodeo (seasonal)

3–6 hr (evening-friendly)

Pair a visit to Old Trail Town’s historic cabins and frontier exhibits with the Cody Night Rodeo for a classic Wyoming evening (check seasonal schedules).

Buffalo Bill Dam & Canyon Overlooks

1–2.5 hr

An easy drive west of town for big canyon views, a quick look at Buffalo Bill Dam, and scenic pullouts along the reservoir and gorge.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (via Lovell)

Full day (8–12 hr with driving)

A longer day trip to vast canyon scenery, lake views, and overlooks in Bighorn Canyon NRA. Great for photography and short hikes; plan fuel and time carefully.

Car Rental & Driving Tips Around Cody

Bring the right documents: Carry a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the primary driver’s name. If you’re flying into Cody or Billings, keep your rental confirmation and insurance details handy.

Expect long distances and limited services: Outside Cody, towns are far apart and cell service can be spotty. Fill up before heading toward Yellowstone, the Beartooths, or Bighorn Canyon, and keep water/snacks in the car.

Check seasonal road conditions: High routes like the Beartooth Highway can close due to snow and wind even outside winter. Verify status the day of travel and plan a lower-elevation backup route.

Drive wildlife-smart: Bison, deer, and elk can be on or near the road—especially at dawn and dusk. Reduce speed in signed areas and never stop in travel lanes for photos.

Fuel strategy: top off early: Don’t rely on finding gas inside remote corridors. Start the day with a full tank, and refuel in larger hubs (Cody, Powell, Lovell, Thermopolis) when possible.

Know your insurance and windshield coverage: Gravel shoulders and construction zones are common in the region. Review collision coverage and consider supplemental options if you’re planning extensive highway miles.

Plan for park parking and entry times: Yellowstone lots can fill early near major attractions. Arrive early, use pullouts legally, and account for entrance lines during peak summer days.

Cody, Wyoming: Gateway to Yellowstone Adventures

Discover the Wild West charm of Cody, Wyoming - where Buffalo Bill's legacy meets world-class rodeos, stunning national parks, and unforgettable western experiences

LANGUAGES

English

CURRENCY

USD

DRIVE ON

Right-hand side

COUNTRY CODE

AVERAGE CAR RENTAL PRICE

$65 per day

AVERAGE CAR RENTAL LENGTH

5-7 days

SPEED LIMIT WITHIN TOWN

40-56 km/h (25-35 mph)

SPEED LIMIT OUT OF TOWN

105-120 km/h (65-75 mph)

ACCEPTABLE LIMIT OF BAC

0.08% (0.02% for drivers under 21)

AVERAGE GAS PRICE

$1.02/L ($3.843/gallon)

LOWEST / HIGHEST GAS PRICE

$0.89/L - $1.15/L ($3.37 - $4.35/gallon)

Cody Car Rental Guide

Essential driving tips for exploring Yellowstone and northwestern Wyoming from Cody

Can I use my foreign driver's license to rent a car in Cody?

Yes, most rental companies accept valid foreign licenses from major countries. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended and sometimes required, especially for non-English licenses. The IDP costs about $20 and can be obtained through your home country's automobile association. Without an IDP, you may face difficulties at pickup or if involved in an accident. Age minimum is typically 21, with a $25-35 daily surcharge for drivers under 25.

How dangerous is winter driving near Cody? Do I need snow chains?

Extremely dangerous without proper preparation. Wyoming Route 296 (Chief Joseph Highway) and roads into Yellowstone often close from November to April due to heavy snow and ice. Snow chains or winter tires are highly recommended from October through April, and chain requirements are frequently enforced. Temperatures drop to -20°F (-29°C) or lower. Rent a 4WD vehicle with snow tires—FWD cars are inadequate for this region. Always check WYDOT road conditions at 511 Wyoming before departing.

Will I hit a bison on the road? What's the wildlife collision risk?

Very high. Bison, elk, moose, deer, and bears frequently cross roads throughout the Cody/Yellowstone region. Bison weigh up to 2,000 lbs and cause catastrophic damage—average collision claim is $15,000+. Drive 45 mph max on park roads and scan shoulders constantly. If a bison charges your car, honk and reverse slowly. Your rental agreement likely holds you liable for full damages. Consider purchasing the rental company's loss damage waiver ($25-40/day) or verify your personal auto insurance covers wildlife strikes.

Are there toll roads near Cody? How do I pay highway fees?

The Beartooth Highway (Route 212) approaching Yellowstone has no toll, but some Wyoming state highways use automated tolling. Most rental cars come equipped with an E-ZPass transponder for toll collection—fees are added to your rental bill. If using a rental without a transponder, photo tolling captures your plate and bills you later, usually with a $15-25 admin fee. Carry $5-10 in cash for unmanned toll points in remote areas.

Is one-way rental from Cody to Jackson or Billings realistic?

One-way rentals are available but expensive—expect $200-500 drop-off fees depending on distance. The drive from Cody to Jackson, Wyoming takes 5 hours via scenic US 20/US 26/US 89 through Grand Teton. Billings, Montana is 2.5 hours north. Since Cody's airport has limited fleet, call ahead: Enterprise and Hertz operate locally but inventory fluctuates seasonally. Book 2+ weeks in advance during summer (June-August) when Yellowstone visitors flood the region.

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