Exeter Car Rentals Made Easy: Great Prices and a Complete Local Guide

Compare competitive rates, choose the best pickup location (airport or downtown), and use our practical Exeter tips on insurance, fees, and fuel policies to rent with confidence.

Terminal Guide

Requirements

Car Guide

Deals

Compare

Rental Tips

Expert Advice

Popular Routes

Routes

Travel Info

FAQ

Awards

Updated Traveler Guide

Renting a Car in Exeter: What to Know Before You Go

Renting a car in Exeter is a practical way to explore Devon and beyond, especially if you plan day trips to Dartmoor, the Jurassic Coast, or smaller villages where trains and buses are limited. Expect left-side driving, narrow streets in older areas, and paid parking in the city center. Prices and car availability can change quickly during summer, university move-in periods, and holiday weekends, so booking ahead typically improves both cost and selection. In the UK, rentals usually include a basic level of insurance but often come with an excess (deductible), so consider excess coverage and carefully review what’s excluded (windscreen, tires, underbody, and key loss are common).

+ more

Exeter Airport (EXT) Car Rental Area

Best for quick getaways and regional road trips. Exeter Airport is small and easy to navigate, and rental desks are typically close to arrivals (or a short walk/transfer to the car park depending on provider). Pros: convenient pickup after flying, longer opening hours than many downtown offices, good selection for one-way trips or early departures. Cons: airport surcharges may apply, options can sell out in peak season, and you may wait during flight arrival peaks. Tip: confirm the exact return location and after-hours procedure if your flight leaves early.

Exeter City Centre (High Street/Princesshay Area)

Good for travelers arriving by train/bus who want to start driving after a day in town. Pros: convenient if you’re staying centrally, often avoids airport fees, easy access to shops for last-minute supplies. Cons: heavier traffic at rush hours, limited and pricey parking, and some streets are tight or restricted; allow extra time for pickup/return.

Exeter St David’s Station Area

A practical pickup point for rail arrivals and onward drives into Devon and Cornwall. Pros: straightforward for train-to-car connections, often simpler road access than the core shopping district. Cons: availability can be limited compared with airport inventory, and weekend/holiday hours may be shorter—verify closing times before booking.

Loading map...

What do you need to rent a car in Exeter?

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

Form of ID: A valid physical United Kingdom national photo ID must be presented.
Driving licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must present a full physical UK driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1 year (some offers require 2 years, especially for vans).
Notes: All drivers must have held their licences for at least 1 year for cars and 2 years for vans from the date of pick‑up.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are generally required. Accepted credit cards (vary by offer) include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and sometimes Diners Club. Some offers also accept debit cards (usually Visa or MasterCard) for deposit or payment, but others only accept credit cards. A few offers require two credit cards in the main driver’s name for higher‑risk rentals. E‑vouchers or printed vouchers may be requested at the counter.
Age requirements: Standard driving age ranges from 22–80 depending on the specific offer. Common unrestricted bands include 25–75, 25–80, and 26–80. Where young driver fees apply, they typically affect drivers between 22/23 and 25 years old. Examples: ages 23–24 may incur about £40 per day (sometimes capped at around £400 per rental), and some offers charge about £66.36 per day for ages 22–25. No rentals are allowed below the stated minimum age or above the stated maximum age on a given offer.

Driving licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must present a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 1 year (some offers require 2 years). Accepted driving licence include:
• EU/EEA Driving License
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is a translation only; original licence must also be shown; photocopies or scans are not accepted)
or
• UK Driving License (with DVLA check code or printed DVLA endorsement record for all approved drivers).
Form of ID: A valid passport must be presented.
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are generally required. Accepted credit cards (vary by offer) include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and sometimes Diners Club. Some offers accept Visa or MasterCard debit cards for deposit/payment, while others only accept credit cards. Certain deals require two payment cards (e.g., two credit cards or a mix of credit and specific debit cards) in the main driver’s name. E‑vouchers or printed vouchers may also be required. If you use your own Collision/Theft coverage (e.g., via credit card or insurer), a printed proof of coverage letter in your name including coverage details, validity dates, countries, and vehicle types must be presented at the desk on applicable offers.
Age requirements: Standard driving age ranges from 22–80 depending on the specific offer. Common unrestricted bands include 25–75, 25–80, and 26–80. Where young driver fees apply, they typically affect drivers between 22/23 and 25 years old. Examples: ages 23–24 may incur about £40 per day (sometimes capped at around £400 per rental), and some offers charge about £66.36 per day for ages 22–25. No rentals are allowed below the stated minimum age or above the stated maximum age on a given offer.

Choose Your Ride

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

Airport Pickup

Downtown Pickup

Pick Up at Exeter Airport (EXT) for the Fastest Start

Airport pickup is ideal if you’re landing in Exeter and heading straight to the road. You’ll usually get broader vehicle availability, more flexible hours, and simpler logistics for early flights or late arrivals. Keep an eye out for airport location surcharges and confirm where the keys and vehicle are collected to avoid delays.

Lane NavigatorSmall

Exeter (EXT) Car Rentals: See Real Ratings Before You Book

Read verified reviews from real customers who rented at Exeter. Get honest insights about vehicles, service, and locations before you commit.

Rating	Avg. Daily Rate	Pickup Method/Distance	Security deposit	Key Advantages
3.2 5400+ reviews	$50	5.2 mi	-	●Friendly and helpful staff ●Quick and easy check-in ●Competitive pricing
2.9 17,000+ reviews	$44	0.8 mi	$572 - $575	●Professional and friendly staff ●Fast and efficient service ●Competitive pricing options
2.7 25 reviews	$306	Shuttle bus	$269 - $672	●Excellent and helpful staff ●Easy pickup and drop-off ●Clean and quality vehicles
2.3 11 reviews	$44	In terminal, Walk to counter	$614 - $940	●Clean and new vehicles ●Helpful and efficient staff ●Good value for money
1.8 3000+ reviews	$70	0.8 mi	$269 - $672	●Friendly and professional staff ●Efficient pickup and return ●Clean and modern vehicles
1.7 23,000+ reviews	$71	Call for pick-up	$269 - $672	●Professional and efficient service ●Helpful and friendly staff ●Clean and well-maintained vehicles
1.2 200+ reviews	$43	In terminal, Walk to counter	$496 - $603	●Helpful and efficient staff ●Clean and well-maintained vehicles ●Friendly customer service
1.2 4,600+ reviews	$111	In terminal, Walk to counter	$403 - $809	●Fast pickup and return process ●Friendly professional staff ●Easy app-based booking management
1.2 5500+ reviews	$77	0.7 mi	$612 - $953	●Friendly and helpful staff ●Quick and easy process ●Competitive rental prices

*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. 7 2026

Essential Rental Hub

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

UK Rental Car Accident Guide What To Do About Safety Insurance And QEEQ Support

Learn exactly what to do if you have a rental car accident in the UK, from the first 60 minutes at the scene to reporting the incident to QEEQ and insurers. This guide explains safety steps, who to call, what information to exchange, how to document evidence, when to involve police, how CDW and excess work, and how to complete rental accident reports so you stay protected on your UK road trip.

View details

First Timer's Guide to Refuelling Rental Cars in the UK

A comprehensive guide for first-time renters on how to refuel a rental car in the UK, covering fuel types, payment options, and important tips.

View details

Insider's Guide to UK Car Rentals: Avoid Hidden Costs

Discover how to avoid unexpected charges when renting a car in the UK. This guide covers insurance options, fuel policies, and driver-related fees to help you save money and drive with confidence.

View details

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

Data Authority

Expertise Verification

QEEQ data verified against local official data sources

Key Expert Insights

Platform Analysis

"Exeter Airport captures 30-35% of rentals as the top pickup point, followed by St Davids Station at 28-33%. Enterprise leads with 23-25% market share, driven by airport proximity (38%) and rail access (30%)."

Booking Patterns

"Economy cars dominate at 30-34%, but SUVs are surging 12-15% YoY for Dartmoor routes. Peak summer rates reach GBP 70-110/day, 50-60% above average. 38% of bookings are made 14+ days in advance."

Customer Pain Points

"40-44% of negative reviews cite hidden fees as the top pain point, with airport surcharges adding 15-20% to base rates and young driver surcharges reaching GBP 25-35/day."

Data Sources

QEEQ internal booking databse
Exeter Airport Passenger Statistics
BVRLA Rental Outlook Report 2025
Office of Rail and Road - Station Usage Data
BVRLA Industry Reports 2024-2025
Visit Devon Tourism Data
Mordor Intelligence UK Car Rental Market Report
Hellascar Hidden Costs Analysis 2024
CMA Consumer Advice for Hiring a Car
Citizens Advice Bureau Car Rental Report 2023

Road Trips

One-way rental routes starting from Exeter

Plan your ultimate road trip with these popular one-way routes departing from Exeter

ExeterLondon

From

$92.00

Popular Self-Drive Routes And Trips From Exeter

Scenic Driving Routes:

Exeter To Dartmoor National Park Loop

Scenic countryside loop2.5–4 hours (plus stops)

A classic Exeter day-drive into Dartmoor’s granite tors, open moorland, and postcard villages. Expect narrow lanes, roaming livestock, and big views—great for a flexible self-guided itinerary.

Moretonhampstead, Haytor Rocks, Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Princetown, Bovey Tracey

Exeter To Jurassic Coast (Sidmouth To Beer) Drive

Coastal viewpoints and seaside towns2–3.5 hours (plus stops)

Head east for dramatic red cliffs, beach walks, and charming seaside stops along Devon’s edge of the UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast. Ideal for a relaxed coastal day with frequent pull-offs.

Sidmouth, Branscombe, Beer, Seaton, Seaton Tramway

Exeter To North Devon Coast (Woolacombe And Ilfracombe) Route

Beach and harbor road trip3–4.5 hours (plus stops)

A bigger day out to North Devon’s surf beaches and rugged headlands. Mix wide sandy bays with a harbor town vibe and optional cliff-top walks for sweeping Atlantic views.

Barnstaple, Woolacombe Beach, Mortehoe, Ilfracombe Harbour, Valley of Rocks (Lynton)

Popular Day Trips From Exeter:

Exeter To Salcombe And South Hams Coast

2.5–3.5 hours driving (round-trip time varies with stops)

A stylish coastal day with estuary views, sandy coves, and waterside dining. Great for a scenic drive paired with a short ferry ride or coastal walk if time allows.

Exeter To Torquay, Paignton, And Brixham (English Riviera)

1.5–2.5 hours driving (round-trip time varies with stops)

Easy coastal access to palm-lined promenades, a working fishing harbor, and family-friendly seafront stops. A dependable choice for a low-stress day trip.

Exeter To Exmouth And Dawlish Warren

1–2 hours driving (round-trip time varies with stops)

A quick getaway for wide beaches, estuary wildlife, and classic seaside scenery. Perfect when you want maximum beach time with minimal driving.

Exeter To Tavistock And The Tamar Valley

2.5–3.5 hours driving (round-trip time varies with stops)

Explore West Devon market-town character and river-valley landscapes near the Cornwall border. Ideal for a slower-paced day of local food, history, and viewpoints.

Car Rental Planning Tips For Driving Around Exeter

Bring The Right Documents: Most UK rentals require a valid driver’s license, a payment card in the main driver’s name, and proof of address/ID if requested. Non-UK licenses may need an IDP depending on where your license was issued.

Get Comfortable With UK Driving: You’ll drive on the left. Take a few minutes in a quiet area to practice lane positioning, roundabouts, and judging the car’s width on narrow lanes.

Plan For Narrow Lanes In Devon: Rural routes (especially near Dartmoor and the coast) can be tight with hedgerows and limited passing places. Build extra time and use pull-ins to let faster traffic pass.

Fuel Strategy: Fill Up Before Remote Areas: Top off before heading deep into Dartmoor or remote coastal stretches where stations are less frequent and may close earlier than city locations.

Understand Parking And Cameras: City-center parking can be limited; use pay-and-display or app-based lots when possible. Watch for bus lanes, restricted turns, and speed cameras on main approaches.

Expect Fast-Changing Weather: Coastal fog, rain, and Dartmoor wind can reduce visibility quickly. Keep headlights appropriate, increase following distance, and avoid pushing speeds on wet bends.

Budget For Tolls, Ferries, And Charges: Some routes may include small toll bridges or ferries (seasonal/route-dependent). Also confirm any congestion or clean air rules if you plan to drive into larger nearby cities.

Choose Insurance With Local Risks In Mind: Consider coverage for narrow-lane scrapes, tires, and glass. Take time-stamped photos at pickup/drop-off and confirm how the rental handles minor damage claims.

Drive Your Dream: Exeter Awaits

Discover the historic heart of Devon with a rental car, exploring Roman walls and scenic countryside at your own pace

LANGUAGES

English

CURRENCY

GBP

DRIVE ON

Left-hand side

COUNTRY CODE

+44

AVERAGE CAR RENTAL PRICE

$67 per day

AVERAGE CAR RENTAL LENGTH

5 days

SPEED LIMIT WITHIN TOWN

30-48 km/h

SPEED LIMIT OUT OF TOWN

96-112 km/h

ACCEPTABLE LIMIT OF BAC

0.08% (Strictly Enforced)

AVERAGE GAS PRICE

$1.56/L

LOWEST / HIGHEST GAS PRICE

$1.45/L - $1.68/L

Exeter Car Rental Guide

Essential driving tips for US travelers renting cars and exploring Exeter and the Devon countryside

Can I drive in the UK with my US driver's license, or do I need an International Driving Permit?

US citizens can drive in the UK with their valid US driver's license for up to 12 months. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended and often required by rental agencies—it translates your license into 10 languages including English. You can obtain an IDP at AAA offices in the US for about $20. Without it, you may face difficulties at pickup or risk of being turned away.

I'm 23—will I pay a young driver surcharge to rent a car in Exeter?

Yes, expect to pay a young driver surcharge of roughly £25-£35 per day (approximately $30-45) if you're under 25. Most UK rental companies set the minimum age at 21, though some luxury or specialty vehicles require 25+. Before booking, check if your US auto insurance or credit card covers UK rentals—some policies waive the young driver fee or provide primary coverage abroad.

How do speed cameras and speed limits work in the UK, and what happens if I get caught?

UK speed limits are 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, and 70 mph on motorways—signs show the limit in red circles. Speed cameras (both fixed and mobile) are widespread, and fines start at £100 with 3 penalty points on your license. Rental cars are registered, so fines are forwarded to the rental company who charges your credit card plus an admin fee of £30-50. Always use the M5 motorway for Exeter access—it's toll-free but monitored by average speed cameras in roadworks zones.

What type of fuel do UK rental cars use, and is it expensive?

Most UK rental cars run on petrol (gasoline) or diesel—always check the fuel type before filling up. Diesel is slightly cheaper per liter but not all vehicles use it. As of 2025, petrol costs approximately £1.45-£1.60 per liter (~$7-8 per gallon). Exeter has numerous petrol stations along major roads, but rural Devon lanes may have limited options—fill up before heading into the countryside. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is growing but still sparse outside Exeter city center.

What should I know about driving on the left side of the road in the UK?

In the UK, you drive on the left and the steering wheel is on the right—everything is reversed from the US. This takes adjustment, especially at roundabouts (traffic flows clockwise and you yield to vehicles already on the circle). Most rental cars have "easy to drive" indicators, but budget extra time for your first few hours. Exmoor National Park roads are narrow with high hedges—take them slowly and use the laybys (pull-out areas) to let faster drivers pass. Driving本能 is strong; stay consciously alert for the first 30-60 minutes.

How much does parking cost in Exeter, and what happens if I park wrong?

Exeter city center parking runs £2-£4 per hour in council car parks or £1.50-£3 on street meters (Mon-Sat 8am-6pm). Free parking exists but is limited—try the Cathedral Quarter or King Street for better deals. Violations like overstaying meters or parking on yellow lines incur £70-£130 fines. If your car is towed, call the council immediately—claim costs start at £200 plus the fine. Ask your hotel for resident parking deals if staying multiple days; some partner with nearby car parks for discounted rates.

QEEQ Platform Awards

Recognized globally for excellence in car rental booking services and customer satisfaction.

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2025

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2024

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2022

Best Business Partner Award of ABG 2023 & 2024

Business Excellence Awards 2024

The Magellan Awards in Car Rental Service Category

The Travolution Awards for Best On the Road

Recommended by our customers

Trusted by customers worldwide and we're always working to improve.

Exeter Car Rentals Made Easy: Great Prices and a Complete Local Guide

What do you need to rent a car in Exeter?

Best Car Rentals in Exeter for Every Journey

SUV

Small

Convertible

Choose Your Ride

Pick Up at Exeter Airport (EXT) for the Fastest Start

Fiat 500

Fiat 500

Fiat 500

Jeep Avenger

Jeep Avenger

Jeep Avenger

Fiat 500

Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

Exeter (EXT) Car Rentals: See Real Ratings Before You Book

Car Rental Expert Advice

Expertise Metrics

Platform Recognition

Booking Volume

Review Quality

Market Experience

Data Authority

Expertise Verification

Key Expert Insights

Platform Analysis

Booking Patterns

Customer Pain Points

Data Sources

One-way rental routes starting from Exeter

Popular Self-Drive Routes And Trips From Exeter

Scenic Driving Routes:

Exeter To Dartmoor National Park Loop

Exeter To Jurassic Coast (Sidmouth To Beer) Drive

Exeter To North Devon Coast (Woolacombe And Ilfracombe) Route

Popular Day Trips From Exeter:

Exeter To Salcombe And South Hams Coast

Exeter To Torquay, Paignton, And Brixham (English Riviera)

Exeter To Exmouth And Dawlish Warren

Exeter To Tavistock And The Tamar Valley

Car Rental Planning Tips For Driving Around Exeter

Drive Your Dream: Exeter Awaits

Exeter Car Rental Guide

QEEQ Platform Awards

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2025

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2024

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2023

Asia's Best Car Rental Booking Website 2022

Best Business Partner Award of ABG 2023 & 2024

Business Excellence Awards 2024

The Magellan Awards in Car Rental Service Category

The Travolution Awards for Best On the Road

Recommended by our customers