What is the most popular car hire in Sao Paulo State?

Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) is the region's main airport and a great place to get car rentals in Sao Paulo. The car rental companies at GRU airport are situated in Terminal 2. To reach the car rental providers, follow the signs upon exiting the arrivals hall. The car rental center is located nearby, and you can access it by walking or taking a short shuttle ride. Various providers operate at the airport, including Avis, Hertz, Localiza, and Unidas. It's advisable to book your rental car in advance to secure availability and potentially benefit from online discounts.
Driving in São Paulo can be challenging during rush hour, typically on weekdays from approximately 7 am to 10 am and 5 pm to 8 pm. The roads most affected by congestion include major highways and avenues such as Marginal Pinheiros, Marginal Tietê, Avenida Paulista, and Radial Leste/Oeste. Additionally, São Paulo experiences periods of heavy rainfall during some months (December to February), which can lead to increased traffic and potentially hazardous driving conditions due to flooding. It's important to exercise caution and allow extra travel time during these seasons.
When driving in São Paulo, choosing a compact or mid-size car is recommended for several reasons. The city is known for its heavy traffic, narrow streets, and limited parking spaces. Compact or mid-size cars are more maneuverable, making navigating through congested areas and finding parking easier. Additionally, smaller cars tend to have better fuel efficiency, which can be advantageous considering the frequent stop-and-go traffic in São Paulo.
Car seats are required for kids below 7 in São Paulo. You can travel with your car set, but renting one from the car rental providers in São Paulo is possible. Infants and toddlers up to 1 year old or weighing less than 9 kg (20 lbs) must be secured in a rear-facing car seat. Children between 1 and 4 years old or weighing between 9 kg (20 lbs) and 18 kg (40 lbs) should be placed in a forward-facing car seat with a harness. Additionally, children between 4 and 7 years old or weighing between 18 kg (40 lbs) and 36 kg (80 lbs) must use a booster seat.
Book your rental car in Sao Paulo at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
Economy rental cars in Sao Paulo are around 74% cheaper than other car types, on average

What is the most popular car hire in Sao Paulo State?
Economy (Fiat Mobi or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Sao Paulo State.
What is the best car hire company in Sao Paulo State?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire in Sao Paulo State is Alamo (7.2, 54 reviews).
How can I find car hires near me in Sao Paulo State?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
Should I rent a car in Sao Paulo?
A rental car offers flexibility, allowing you to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Public transportation in São Paulo is extensive but can be crowded and time-consuming, especially during peak hours. With a rental car, you can easily access attractions outside the city, such as scenic coastal towns like Santos, or explore nearby nature reserves like Serra da Cantareira. São Paulo's vast size and the ability to navigate different neighborhoods conveniently make renting a car attractive.
What is driving like in Sao Paulo?
Driving in São Paulo can be characterized as busy and fast-paced. The driving culture in São Paulo can be assertive, with drivers often displaying confidence and adaptability in navigating through heavy traffic. Road use can be congested during peak hours, and it's common to encounter aggressive driving behaviors such as frequent lane changes and tight maneuvering. General road conditions vary across the city, with some areas experiencing potholes or uneven surfaces. Posted speed limits typically range from 40-60 km/h (25-35 mph) in urban areas and 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) on highways. Be cautious of motorcyclists and bicyclists, as they are prevalent on São Paulo's roads.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Sao Paulo?
Generally, the minimum age requirement is 21 years old. However, most rental companies apply an underage surcharge for drivers under 25. For driver's license requirements, renters must have a valid driver's license from their home country. However, if their license is not in Portuguese or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary to fulfill the requirements. Carrying your original driver's license and the IDP is advisable, as some rental companies may require both.