Car Rental in Billings (2026) - Driving Guide & Best Rates
Find the best car rental options in Billings to explore top attractions, enjoy the weather, and make your trip smooth. Book now for convenient.
Driving Requirements
An IDP is strongly recommended for non-English language license holders visiting Billings. While Montana generally accepts valid foreign licenses, an IDP provides an official translation recognized by US authorities and rental agencies.
Most rental agencies in the US require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers aged 21, 24 typically incur a young driver surcharge. Check current rates in the booking widget below.
A valid driver's license from your home country is generally accepted in Montana. If your license is not printed in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet, carrying an IDP alongside it is strongly advised.
Montana state law requires minimum liability insurance for all vehicles. Rental agencies offer optional Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Liability Supplement coverage, check whether your personal auto policy or credit card provides equivalent protection before declining.
Virtually all US rental agencies require a major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) in the driver's name to hold a security deposit. Debit cards may be accepted at select agencies but often require additional documentation and a larger hold.
No additional country-specific driving permit beyond a valid national license (and IDP if applicable) is required to drive in Billings, Montana. The US does not require an extra permit for foreign visitors beyond standard documentation.
Helpful Tips
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is the primary rental hub, with major agencies available on-site, convenient for arrivals, though city-center locations may offer more competitive rates. Check current pricing in the booking widget for both options.
Before leaving the lot, photograph all existing dents, scratches, and interior wear with a timestamped phone camera, and ensure the damage is noted on your rental agreement to avoid disputes at return.
Montana's highways extend into rural areas where cell service can be unreliable, download an offline GPS map (Google Maps or Maps.me) for your planned routes before departing Billings.
Fuel stations become less frequent outside the Billings metro area. Fill the tank before heading into rural Montana, and confirm whether your rental agreement requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid refueling surcharges.
When returning the car, allow extra time to document the vehicle condition again and obtain a written or emailed receipt confirming the return, do not leave without confirmation of acceptance.
Driving Warnings
Montana law prohibits right-on-red when a red arrow is displayed, watch for this at the signalized intersection of 27th Street West and King Avenue West, where out-of-state drivers often roll through.
From October 1 to May 31, studded tires or approved traction devices are mandatory on most passenger vehicles when the Montana DOT posts winter restrictions conditions. Fines start at $85 and points are assessed.
Expect sudden backups on the I-90/I-94 interchange near the Lockwood exit during weekday 7, 8 a.m. and 4:30, 6 p.m. as commuter traffic merges toward downtown, speed limits drop to 55 mph but many drivers ignore the change.
Billings Police Department operates mobile speed-monitoring units along Grand Avenue between 24th and 32nd Streets. Citations are issued at 10 mph over the posted 30 mph limit and cannot be waived for out-of-state licenses.