Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
State College
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
State College
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
State College
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
State College
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
State College offers a blend of academic energy and natural beauty. While the town is walkable, a rental car grants the freedom to explore the surrounding landscapes and attractions at your own pace.
Explore Penn State University: A car makes it easy to navigate the extensive campus, attend events, and visit various departments without relying on public transport or walking long distances.
Discover Central Pennsylvania: Venture beyond State College to explore nearby state parks, wineries, and charming small towns. A rental car provides the flexibility to create your own itinerary.
Convenience for Families and Groups: If you're traveling with family or friends, a rental car offers ample space for luggage and passengers, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Before renting a car in State College, it's important to understand the terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Here are some essential points to consider:
Area
11.8 square kilometers (4.55 square miles)
Population
Approximately 42,000 residents
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (EST/EDT)
Ideal for
Exploring the region at your own pace
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during university class times and events
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in State College require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required for all rentals. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsStandard rentals include basic insurance, but additional coverage options are available. A security deposit is usually required and held on the renter’s credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicySome rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others may have restrictions. Fuel policies vary, so be sure to understand the requirements for returning the car with the correct fuel level.
5. Additional FeesExtra charges may apply for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional add-ons like GPS and child seats.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £11 / $14 / €13 per day
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
To book a car in State College, follow these simple steps for a seamless rental experience:
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various car rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental terms, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and identification when collecting your rental.
State College is a vibrant town known for Penn State University and its lively atmosphere. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore the region's attractions and natural beauty, but understanding local driving conditions is essential.
As home to Penn State University, State College offers a unique blend of academic and recreational opportunities. While the town is easily navigable, venturing beyond its borders requires a reliable mode of transportation. Renting a car provides the convenience to explore state parks, nearby towns, and scenic routes.
Top Attractions to Discover
Penn State University
Explore the expansive campus and attend university events.
Mount Nittany
Hike to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
Enjoy the scenic trails and observe local wildlife.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use borough-operated garages for secure parking in the downtown area.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available on many streets, but be aware of time limits.
University Parking
Utilize parking areas on the Penn State campus, but check for permits and restrictions.
Gas Stations in State College
Major Brands
Find stations from brands like Sheetz, Sunoco, and ExxonMobil.
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are located throughout State College and along major routes.
Refueling Tips
Fill up your tank before venturing out to more remote areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting State College
Plan for Traffic
Be aware of heavier traffic during university events and peak hours.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilize GPS or navigation apps for real-time traffic updates and directions.
Check Weather Conditions
Be prepared for changing weather, especially during winter months.
Respect Pedestrians
Be mindful of pedestrians, especially around campus areas.
Bus Stations
Megabus Stop
Located near the Penn State campus, providing connections to major cities.
Airports
University Park Airport (SCE)
Located a few miles from State College, offering flights to major hubs.
Renting a car in State College is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to meet a few key requirements before hitting the road. Here’s what you’ll need:
If you're from the United States, your standard license is sufficient. Visitors from most countries can use their home-country license for up to 12 months, but some may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may charge extra fees for drivers under 25.
A valid card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies only accept credit cards for deposits.
A passport or another form of identification may be required for international renters
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This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as State College as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill vibe.
Kevin Lee
Reviewed: 06.08.2025
Wonderful summer getaway! Having a car made exploring State College and the surrounding area so convenient. Highly recommend!
Jessica Davis
Reviewed: 28.10.2024
Relaxing, low-key trip.
Ashley Garcia
Reviewed: 30.10.2024
Family vacation in State College was perfect! Getting around with a car was so convenient, exploring all the beautiful spots with ease.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 05.08.2025
Great short trip to see friends! Having a car made getting around State College so easy.
David Wilson
Reviewed: 20.07.2025
Quick trip to see friends in State College was fantastic! Getting around was a breeze, thanks to having a car. Highly recommend!
Chloe Brown
Reviewed: 08.10.2024
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State College lived up to the hype! Exploring the area with a rental car was easy. The campus was beautiful, but the downtown area felt a little less vibrant than I'd expected.
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 10.03.2025