Renting a car at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) involves a convenient process that can greatly enhance your visit to Los Angeles. Here’s an updated guide on how to find and pick up a rental car at LAX, incorporating the latest changes as of 2024.
Step 1: Arriving at LAX
Upon your arrival and after collecting your luggage, head to the lower/arrivals level where you will find signage directing you to the rental car shuttles. Look for the purple “Rental Car Shuttles” sign where authorized rental car companies provide courtesy shuttle service to their off-airport facilities.
Step 2: Choosing a Rental Company
Several rental car companies operate at LAX, offering shuttle services to and from the airport. These include:
- Alamo
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Fox
- Hertz
- National
- Sixt
- Thrifty
- Zipcar
Each company offers a range of vehicles to accommodate different needs and preferences. Ensure you choose one that best fits your travel requirements.
Step 3: Completing the Rental Process
At the rental car center, proceed to the counter of your chosen company. You’ll need to present a valid driver’s license and a credit card. Some companies also accept debit cards but may require additional documentation, such as proof of your return travel itinerary.
Step 4: Picking Up Your Vehicle
After handling the paperwork, you’ll be directed to your rental vehicle. It’s advisable to inspect the vehicle for any existing damage and ensure all features meet your expectations before leaving the lot.
Step 5: Returning Your Vehicle
To return your vehicle, follow the company’s guidelines which typically involve refueling the car and returning it to the designated area within the rental car lot. Most companies accommodate returns 24 hours a day, allowing for flexibility in your travel schedule.
Additional Tips
- A Customer Facility Charge of $9.00 per day, for up to 5 days, is applied to rental car transactions at LAX. This fee supports the costs associated with the construction and operation of consolidated rental facilities and transportation systems at the airport.
- For those renting from companies not located directly at the airport, such as those requiring the Remote Rental Car Depot, shuttles are available at the PINK LAX Shuttle sign. These shuttles will take you to the depot located at the intersection of Century and Airport Boulevards.
- At the time of this writing, the companies operating at the Remote Rental Car Depot are Able, Allied, Ace, Airport Van Rental, Green Motion, Midway, Next Car, Priceless, State Van Rental, and U-Save Car and Truck rental.
By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a smooth car rental experience at LAX, allowing you to explore Los Angeles and its surroundings at your convenience.
