The term, short term lease, as it relates to car leasing, means leasing for a term (number of months) that is less than the normal length for most leases, which is 24, 36, 39, 42, or 48 months.

Although car companies very occasionally offer 12 month or 18 month leases, the minimum normal lease is 24 months. If a shorter lease is required, consider a lease assumption (see our article Short Term Car Lease for more details) or a long-term car rental. Another option would be to buy a used car and resell it later. Be sure to buy a car that retains its resale value well, such as a Honda or Toyota.