Welcome to Orlando! As you prepare to hit the road and explore the Sunshine State, you’ll quickly encounter one of Florida’s biggest expenses for tourists: the toll roads. Fortunately, The Florida Visitor Toll Pass provides a simple solution to manage these costs efficiently. Before hitting the road, make sure you’re familiar with the key Florida driving laws and regulations that apply to visitors

While the convenience of non-stop toll lanes is great, many UK visitors unknowingly agree to the exorbitant daily admin fees charged by rental car companies. Fortunately, an official, cost-saving alternative exists: the Visitor Toll Pass™ (VTP).

This innovative system is a free, temporary toll pass provided by the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX)—a government agency—designed specifically for visitors flying into and out of Orlando International Airport (MCO).

The Key Advantages: Saving Up to 80%

The Financial Advantage

his system operates on a simple principle: you pay only for tolls you actually use, at the lowest electronic rate available. Consider the difference compared to rental car companies, which charge $3.00–$5.00 per toll transaction. In contrast, the pass charges just the actual toll amount plus a modest 5% processing fee.

On a typical week-long Florida holiday, this difference can add up significantly. Imagine saving 80% on your toll costs—money you can redirect toward activities, dining, or attractions instead.

The Convenience Factor

Beyond savings, this solution offers peace of mind. You’ll never need to worry about toll charges accumulating during your trip. Setup takes just 5 minutes, and then you can focus entirely on enjoying your holiday rather than managing road expenses.

Cost Comparison	Rental Car Toll Program	Visitor Toll Pass (VTP)
Daily Fee	High (even when not used)	$0 (FREE)
Toll Rate	Full electronic rate or higher	Lowest Electronic Discount Rate
Total Savings	No savings.	Savings of up to 80% compared to rental company plans.
Operated By	Third-party contractor for the rental company.	Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX), a government agency.

How It Works: Step-by-Step Overview

The concept is straightforward. This small hang-tag device—roughly the size of a car air freshener—attaches to your windscreen and allows you to drive toll roads seamlessly.

Here’s what you need to know about the system itself:

The system is managed by Breeze, a private company specializing in toll management. Currently, it’s only available at Orlando International Airport (MCO), though kiosks operate 24 hours during peak travel periods (6am–11pm during quieter times). Importantly, the pass works on all Florida toll roads operated by SunPass, giving you comprehensive coverage across the state.

This means you’re not limited to a single route or region. Whether you’re driving to Miami, Tampa, or exploring Central Florida, your pass works seamlessly across the entire electronic toll network.

Kiosk Locations at Orlando International Airport

Kiosk Locations at MCO

All three terminal buildings at Orlando International Airport have dedicated kiosks. Conveniently, they’re positioned near the rental car desks—you’ll find yours immediately after declining the rental company’s toll coverage option.

Here’s the specific breakdown by terminal:

Terminal A: Level 1, near the Alamo counter
Terminal B: Level 1, by baggage carousel 28B (near the rental car area)
Terminal C: Level 4, within the on-airport rental car agency zone

Pro tip: The kiosks operate 24 hours during peak travel periods and 6am–11pm during quieter times. If you arrive outside these hours, you can set up your pass online and collect the device at one of these locations when you’re ready to pick up your rental car.

Terminal A: Located on Level 1, near the car rental counters.

Terminal B: Located on Level 1, near the car rental counters (specifically near baggage carousel 28B).

Terminal C: Located on Level 4, near the on-airport rental car agencies.

Returning Your Pass & Getting Your Deposit Back

When your holiday ends, here’s the simple return process:

Step 1: Remove the Device
Simply remove the pass from your mirror before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Step 2: Return It
Take it to any VTP kiosk across the three terminals. You don’t need to visit the same location where you picked it up.

Step 3: Claim Your Refund
Your $10 deposit returns within 5 business days of the return date.

No matter which option you choose, the process is hassle-free.

The Florida Visitor Toll Pass: The UK Visitors Essential Guide & FAQs

A valid U.K. photo driving license lets tourists drive in Florida for up to three months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not legally required to drive or rent a car in Florida. However, be aware that some other U.S. states do require an IDP. This is important if you plan to travel outside of Florida.

What is a Valid U.K. Drivers License?

You must have a current plastic photo card. Visitors may also use a paper license. If you use a paper license, you must carry your passport or other photo ID at all times.

When Does the 3 Months Start?

The three-month maximum period begins on your date of entry into the USA. If you plan to drive for a longer period, an International Drivers Permit (IDP) is required.

Why Don’t I Need an International Drivers Permit (IDP)?

For full details, please see our dedicated article on IDPs. In short, U.K. visitors with a valid license do not need an IDP to drive in Florida. If you intend to drive in other states, we advise you to research their specific IDP requirements. It is suggested by some sources that the Florida car hire companies may request that you have an IDP. Having travelled to Florida on over 50 occasions, and rented cars each and every time, I have never been asked for an IDP from any of the companies that I have used which include Hertz, Thrifty, Alamo and Dollar.

When Do I Need To Carry My Drivers License?

You must carry your license while driving in Florida, its a legal requirement. We advise carrying your license at all times. It takes up very little room and you may be asked for ID in bars and restaurants.

Before You Travel

We advise checking all your travel documents well in advance of traveling. This ensures that all personal details are correct and up-to-date.

For more information about driving in Florida, see our dedicated article.

Florida Car Hire

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Peace of mind is paramount, which is why all our car hires include fully comprehensive CDW and SLI insurance with zero excess. Should you have any queries, our 24/7 U.K.-based customer support line is always available. What truly sets us apart is our dedication to saving you money: book early to maximize your savings, as we automatically monitor your booking against your original criteria and rebook your car at a lower rate if the price drops by £10 or more, without you lifting a finger. Book your Smart car hire today and experience the difference! Get your free no obligation Florida car hire quote today.

The short answer is no, an International Drivers Permit is generally not a legal requirement for non-resident visitors to drive in Florida. Visitors can typically drive using a valid driver’s license issued by their country of residence, provided they are not establishing Florida residency. However, while the IDP is not legally mandatory in Florida, it is highly recommended as a helpful supplementary document especially if you are considering driving in other states such as Georgia that does require an International Drivers Permit.

The Flip-Flop of Florida Law

In January 2013, a change to Florida Statute 322.04 briefly made it a requirement for non-US residents to have an IDP alongside their home country’s driving licence to drive legally in Florida. This created significant concern among international tourists.

However, following swift legislative action and public reaction, the amendment enforcing the IDP requirement was quickly repealed by the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles.

The current position is that a full, valid UK driving licence is generally sufficient for a visitor to drive a rental car in Florida.

Why the IDP is Still Recommended

Despite the repeal of the mandatory state law, there are several compelling reasons why a UK visitor to Florida should still consider obtaining an IDP before they travel:

Rental Company Policy: While not a state law, some car rental agencies may still include a clause in their terms and conditions recommending or even requiring an IDP, particularly if the UK licence is an older, paper-only version. Always check with your specific rental company to avoid issues at the collection desk.

Facilitating Police Interaction: The

The short answer is no, an International Drivers Permit is generally not a legal requirement for non-resident visitors driving in Florida.

Visitors may drive using a valid license issued by their home country, provided they are not establishing Florida residency. However, while an IDP is not legally mandatory, it is strongly recommended as a helpful supplementary document.

Why an IDP is Still Recommended

An IDP is an official translation of your foreign driver’s license into ten languages. This translation can significantly expedite matters and prevent confusion with car rental agencies and law enforcement, especially if your home country license is not in English.

Despite the law, an IDP is advised for several reasons:

Rental Company Policy: Some car rental agencies may still recommend or require an IDP, particularly if your license is an older, paper-only version. Always check with your specific rental company.

Police Interaction: In the event of a traffic stop or accident, the IDP facilitates faster interaction with the Florida Highway Patrol or local law enforcement, helping prevent language barriers or misunderstandings about your license’s validity.

Peace of Mind: The minimal cost of an IDP offers an internationally recognised document that validates your UK licence, giving veteran travellers assurance on the road.

Extended Stays: A US-state license or an IDP will become necessary if your stay extends beyond a short tourist visit (typically over 3 months).

The Law’s History

Florida Statute 322.04 briefly made the IDP a requirement for non-US residents in January 2013. This change caused significant concern among international tourists. Following swift legislative action and public reaction, the amendment was quickly repealed. A full, valid UK driving licence is currently sufficient for a visitor to drive a rental car in Florida.

Preparation Checklist for UK Visitors

UK visitors hiring a car in Florida should ensure they have the following documents:

• Your full, valid UK Photocard Driving Licence. (Older, paper-only licenses require a separate form of photographic ID, such as a passport).
• Your Passport. (Mandatory for ID).
• Credit Card (in the primary driver’s name for the rental deposit).
• Booking Confirmation/Voucher.
• International Driving Permit (IDP) – Highly Recommended.

Getting an IDP

The process to obtain an IDP is straightforward. In the UK, you can get one over the counter at specific shops with Pay Point. You will need:

• Your full, valid UK driving licence.
• A passport-sized photo.
• The application fee (typically around £5.50).

The IDP for the USA is a 1949 Convention permit, valid for one year.

Conclusion

While Florida state law does not legally require an International Driving Permit, obtaining one is strongly advised. It acts as a safeguard against potential misunderstandings with authorities and ensures compliance with any specific rental company or insurance terms. For the minimal expense, it provides considerable peace of mind for your trip in the Sunshine State. Always check your car rental company’s specific requirements before you travel.

The information contained in this article is correct as of the date published.

International Driving Permit is essentially an official translation of your licence into multiple languages. In the event of a traffic stop, accident, or other interaction with the Florida Highway Patrol or local law enforcement, having an IDP can expedite the process and prevent any language barriers or misunderstandings about the validity of your licence.

Peace of Mind: For a small fee (typically around £5.50 in the UK) and with a simple application process, an IDP offers an internationally recognised document that validates your UK licence. Many veteran travellers to the US suggest that the minimal cost is worth the assurance it provides.

Duration of Stay: While a UK licence is valid for short tourist stays, if you plan to be in the US for an extended period (typically over 3 months), an International Driving Permit for Florida or eventually a US-state licence will become necessary.

Key Documentation Checklist

For a UK visitor hiring a car in Florida, it’s essential to have the following documents ready:

• Your full, valid UK Photocard Driving Licence. If you have an older, paper-only licence, you must carry a separate form of photographic ID, such as your passport.
• Your Passport. This is mandatory for ID.
• Credit Card (in the primary driver’s name for the rental deposit).
• Booking Confirmation/Voucher.
• International Driving Permit (IDP) – Highly Recommended.

How to Get an International Drivers Permit

If you decide to obtain one, the process is straightforward. In the UK, you can get an IDP over the counter at certain shops that have Pay Point (check the UK government website for the most up-to-date information on where to buy one). You will need:

• Your full, valid UK driving licence.
• A passport-sized photo.
• The application fee.

The IDP for the USA is a 1949 Convention permit, which is typically valid for one year.

The Verdict

While a UK visitor driving in Florida is not legally required by state law to possess an International Driving Permit, it is strongly advised as a safeguard against potential misunderstandings with authorities and as a measure to comply with specific rental company or insurance terms. For the minimal cost, it offers considerable peace of mind for your road trip in the Sunshine State. Always check the specific requirements of your car rental company before you travel.

The information & prices contained in this article is correct as of the date published.