Car Rental in Buffalo - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Buffalo is generally recommended for tourists, particularly if you're planning to explore the wider Western New York region. The city drives on the right side of the road, following standard US traffic rules. Buffalo itself has a manageable downtown area where parking is typically available, though winter driving requires caution due to the city's famous lake-effect snow. A car rental makes most sense for visiting Niagara Falls (about 20 minutes north), exploring the Finger Lakes wine region, or taking scenic drives along Lake Erie. It's also ideal for accessing suburban attractions and outlet malls that aren't well-served by public transit. Road quality is generally good on major highways, though some city streets show typical northeastern wear. You might skip the rental if you're staying exclusively in downtown Buffalo, where the Metro Rail provides free service in the downtown zone and many attractions are walkable. However, Buffalo's public transportation is limited compared to larger cities, so a car significantly increases your flexibility. Driving isn't particularly challenging for tourists familiar with US roads, though winter visitors should have experience with snow driving or consider alternative transportation during heavy weather.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. Foreign licenses are generally accepted for short-term rentals in Buffalo, New York.

International Driving Permit (IDP)

Recommended for non-English licenses and may be required by some rental agencies. Obtain from your home country before traveling to the United States.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with additional fees often applying for drivers under 25. Age requirements may vary by rental company.

Credit Card

A major credit card in the driver's name is required for the security deposit. Debit cards may not be accepted by most rental agencies in Buffalo.

Insurance Coverage

Basic liability insurance is mandatory in New York State. Check if your personal auto insurance or credit card provides coverage, or purchase from the rental agency.

Additional Insurance

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and supplemental liability coverage are optional but recommended for international visitors unfamiliar with U.S. driving conditions.

Buffalo Niagara International Airport offers the most convenient rental options with major agencies located on-site, though downtown locations may have better rates - compare both before booking through rental widgets.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage, verify winter equipment is included during cold months (Buffalo gets significant snow), and confirm the fuel policy and mileage limits in your contract.

GPS navigation is recommended as Buffalo's street grid can be confusing for visitors, particularly around downtown and when navigating to Niagara Falls - most rental agencies offer GPS units or confirm your phone's data plan works in the area.

Gas stations are readily available throughout Buffalo, but fill up before returning to the airport to avoid premium fuel charges - also note that downtown parking often requires payment via apps or meters.

Allow extra time when returning your rental, especially at the airport during winter months when weather can cause delays, and keep your fuel receipt and final photos of the odometer and vehicle condition for your records.

Buffalo experiences severe winter weather with heavy lake-effect snow from November through March - winter driving requires experience with snow/ice conditions, and visitors unfamiliar with extreme winter driving should consider alternative transportation during storms.

Information not available on specific traffic patterns and rush hours for Buffalo - check local traffic reports and GPS apps for current conditions before driving.

Information not available on Buffalo-specific driving customs or local traffic enforcement practices - follow standard US traffic laws and posted speed limits.

Winter weather can create hazardous road conditions including black ice, reduced visibility, and snow accumulation - monitor weather forecasts and road condition reports, and avoid driving during severe weather warnings if possible.