When you rent a car from Alamo, Enterprise, or National at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, the final price includes more than just the base rental rate. Taxes and surcharges can add significantly to your total cost. Here is what to expect.
U.S. Virgin Islands Rental Tax
The U.S. Virgin Islands imposes taxes on car rentals that are added to your bill. These taxes are a percentage of the base rental rate and are mandatory. The exact rate may vary and can change, so the final tax amount will be calculated at the counter or shown in your online quote.
Airport Concession Fee
Because the rental facility operates on airport property, an airport concession fee or facility fee may be added to your rental. This fee compensates the airport for the use of its land and infrastructure.
Vehicle Licensing Fee
A vehicle licensing fee is typically charged to cover the cost of registering and licensing the rental fleet. This is usually a flat daily fee rather than a percentage.
Common Surcharges
- Customer facility charge: A daily fee for the rental facility
- Energy surcharge: May apply to cover fuel and energy costs
- Additional driver fee: $10-$15 per day per additional driver (waived for loyalty members' spouses)
- Underage driver surcharge: $20-$30 per day for drivers 21-24
- Child seat rental: $10-$15 per day per seat
- GPS rental: $10-$15 per day (if available)
How to Estimate Total Cost
When comparing rental rates across Alamo, Enterprise, and National, look at the total estimated cost, not just the base daily rate. Taxes and surcharges can add 20-30% or more to the advertised base rate. The online booking process will show the estimated total before you confirm.
Tips for Managing Costs
- Compare total estimated costs across all three brands
- Join loyalty programs to waive certain fees (like additional driver)
- Skip optional add-ons like GPS (use your phone instead)
- Bring your own child seat to avoid daily rental fees
- Return the car with a full tank to avoid refueling charges
Are Taxes Refundable?
Taxes and surcharges are applied to the final rental charges. If you return the car early, some fees may be adjusted, but taxes are typically non-refundable for the days you had the car.