Car rental at Derry Airport

Car Rental at Derry Airport (LDY)

Check live prices from 4 providers at the terminal. Pick up your keys and hit the road - no queues, no stress.

LocationAirport
Providers4
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ 4 providers compared ⚡ Results in 30 seconds 🧾 No hidden fees ⭐ Free cancellation

Quick answer: At Derry Airport you can compare rental cars from 4 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely - not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready - that's where most people get caught out.

About Renting a Car at Derry Airport

City of Derry Airport (LDY) is the most convenient way to pick up a rental car for a trip to northwestern Northern Ireland and the adjacent parts of Ireland. With 4 rental agencies directly at the airport, you can be on your way within minutes of landing. The airport serves routes from London, Manchester, and Glasgow.

City of Derry Airport is located about 13 km northeast of Derry/Londonderry center via A2. From here it is about 75 km to Belfast along A6 through Sperrin Mountains, one of Northern Ireland's most beautiful drives. Giant's Causeway on the Antrim coast is reached in about 75 minutes driving east.

Rent a car at the airport and drive the Causeway Coastal Route – one of the world's most beautiful coastal drives that begins about 40 km to the east. Remember to check if your rental car is approved for driving in Ireland (the Republic) if you plan to cross the border. Feel free to book with unlimited mileage as distances in northwestern Ireland quickly add up.

Can I drive the rental car from Derry Airport across the border to Ireland? Most major rental agencies allow driving in Ireland but require it to be noted at booking – check the terms carefully and expect a possible additional charge. How long does it take to drive from Derry Airport to Giant's Causeway?

Giant's Causeway is about 75 km to the east and takes approximately 70–80 minutes via A2 along the coast. Are there parking options at Derry Airport if I leave my car there? Yes, City of Derry Airport has both short and long-term parking – check the rental agency's specific drop-off location at the airport.

We compare prices from all major providers at Derry Airport so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Renting at Derry Airport - The Short Version

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra - check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of United Kingdom. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Derry Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Thrifty
Dollar
Hertz
Avis

Essential Info for Renting at Derry Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At Derry Airport you can compare rentals from 4 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in United Kingdom

In United Kingdom you drive on the Left side.

  • Urban speed limit: 48 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 113 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,8 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking is available usually in cities, but can be expensive.

Road tolls: Have koll på signs and be prepared for to pay fees.

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Derry Airport

Which rental companies are available at Derry Airport?
You can compare 4 rental companies at Derry Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in United Kingdom?
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Derry Airport?
The minimum age to rent in United Kingdom is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in United Kingdom?
In United Kingdom you drive on the Left side. Speed limits: 48 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 113 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?
When collecting your car at Derry Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?
Most providers at Derry Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Derry Airport?
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Derry Airport

Other Rental Locations Near Derry Airport

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