Picking up your hire car

[Sunset_Princess]

I passed my driving test July 2012 so this will be the first time that I am driving in Florida. I always avoided the car hire bit of the airport when I went with my parents so I don't know what went on over there. Do you just take your documents over to the desk, give them your credit card and then they give you the keys? I know its probably really obvious but i'm actually quite scared about it!

Also, I would have held my licence for just over a year but ust wanted to be certain about that rules when it comes to the length of time you should have held I licence. Some places ive read a year, other no minimum time. Will i be ok? I believe we are hiring with Alamo (with Travel City Direct)

 

[wayneg]

You need to double check with who you are buying from.
This is the response from USrentacar's FAQ

Is there a minimum term for having held a full driving license in order to hire a car?

Most suppliers require drivers to have held their licence for a minimum of one year.
For more detailed information please see the specific terms for each supplier,found on the final page of the booking process or alternatively contact our reservations department on 0845 226 8523.

You make sure you have everything you need before leaving the UK then on arrival say no to everything they try pressure you into buying.

Just checked TCD if thats who you are renting with:

Driving Licences

You need a full British one - an international driving licence is not needed. There is no minimum time for having had a licence. You must have your original with you and if you have the new style photocard, both parts are required. A faxed copy is not acceptable

 

[bazzanoid]

As Wayne said, check with your travel booking folks.

If you're with Alamo, you won't get the keys from the rental desk. They'll give you the paperwork and tell you what row or rows of cars you can choose from, simply head out to their parking lot, find the row(s) they told you, choose the one you like, the keys will be in it, and off you go! Be sure to fully examine the car for any damage no matter how minor before you start off. If there is any, even a stone chip on the paintwork, make sure it's marked on the car inspection form which should be either in the glovebox or on the top of the dash. When you leave the parking lot the gate attendant takes a copy of this from you - this effectively confirms the condition of the car when you started your rental so they can check it when you return it.

I'd recommend you have a look through this website as a first time driver in the US as well!
http://www.kissimmee-us192.com/british/driving.htm

Once you've done it once, you won't want to drive in the UK ever again....