Quick Guide: Picking Up a Rental Car at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Last updated: March 16, 2026

Planning to pick up a rental car at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)? Honolulu’s airport uses a five-story Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility, often called the CONRAC, which brings together the airport’s on-airport rental car companies in one location. If you arrive at certain Terminal 2 baggage claims, you can walk there directly. If you arrive at Terminal 1, Terminal 2 international arrivals, or Terminal 3, follow signs to the rental car shuttle pickup area for a free shuttle to the facility. This guide explains where to go, how the HNL rental car process works, and what to know before you drive away. Since rental procedures and counter hours can vary by provider, it is always smart to confirm your rental company’s latest instructions before travel.

Quick Facts: Renting a Car at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

• Airport code: HNL

• Rental car pickup location: Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility (CONRAC)

• Where is it?: Directly across Terminal 2, outside Baggage Claims 26 and 31

• Can some travelers walk there?: Yes. Passengers arriving at Terminal 2 baggage claims 19–31 can walk to the facility

• Who needs a shuttle?: Passengers arriving at Terminal 1, Terminal 2 international arrivals and baggage claims 16–18, and Terminal 3

• Where are the shuttle pickup points?: Terminal 1 between Baggage Claims 8 and 9, Terminal 2 across Baggage Claim 18, and Terminal 3 outside the terminal building

• When do rental car shuttles run?: During facility operating hours from 4:00 AM to midnight

• Best tip before pickup: Check whether your arrival point requires a walk or a shuttle before you land

Step 1: Arrive at Honolulu International Airport

After landing at HNL, follow signs to baggage claim in your terminal. Once you have your luggage, look for airport signs for rental car services so you can head toward the Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility or the shuttle pickup point that serves your arrival area.

Step 2: Get to the Consolidated Rent-A-Car (CONRAC) Facility

The CONRAC facility at Honolulu Airport houses all major car rental companies in one convenient location. Here’s how to get there:

From Terminal 2 (Baggage Claims 19-31)

• Exit the baggage claim area and follow signs for Rental Car Services.
• The CONRAC facility is located directly across from Baggage Claims 26 and 31.

From Terminal 1, Terminal 2 International Arrivals, and Terminal 3

• Head to the rental car shuttle pick-up areas:
  • Terminal 1: Ground level median (blue & white curb) across from Baggage Claims 8 and 9.
  • Terminal 2: Ground level median (blue & white curb) across from Baggage Claim 18.
  • Terminal 3: Outside the terminal building.
• Shuttle buses operate daily from 4:00 AM to Midnight, providing quick and free transport to the rental car center.

Step 3: Choose Your Rental Car Company

The Consolidated Rent-A-Car Facility (CONRAC) houses the following major rental car providers:

• Alamo
• Avis
• Budget
• Dollar
• Enterprise
• Hertz
• National
• Payless
• Thrifty
• Sixt

If you have a reservation, proceed to your rental company’s counter to finalize the paperwork. If you need to book a car on arrival, most companies allow same-day rentals, though availability may be limited during peak travel seasons. You’re better off booking in advance from a service like AutoRentals to be sure to avoid disappointment.

Step 4: Complete Your Rental Agreement

When you reach the counter, have your driver’s license, payment card, and reservation confirmation ready. If your license is not in English, your rental company may recommend additional documentation depending on its policies.

Before leaving the counter, review your paperwork carefully and make sure you understand:

• the final total
• the fuel policy
• the return time
• any optional extras or additional driver fees

A quick review now can help you avoid surprises later in your trip.

Step 5: Pick Up Your Rental Car

• Inspect the vehicle: Before leaving, check for any existing damage and report it to the rental agency.
• Understand your fuel policy: Some companies require a full tank upon return.
• Familiarize yourself with the car: Adjust mirrors, seats, and GPS settings before hitting the road.

Step 6: Exiting the Airport & Navigating Oahu

After leaving the rental facility, follow airport exit signs toward the main roads serving Honolulu and the rest of Oahu. If you are heading toward Waikiki or downtown Honolulu, plan your route before pulling out. If you are driving farther across the island, it helps to check traffic before you leave the airport area.

• Follow exit signs leading to Nimitz Highway (HI-92) for direct access to Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
• Take Interstate H-1 if heading to the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, or Ko Olina.
• Plan for rush hour traffic (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM), which can affect travel times.

Step 7: Returning Your Rental Car

Return your vehicle to the Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility at 300 Rodgers Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96819, and follow signs for your rental company’s designated return area. If you are departing from Terminal 1 or Terminal 3, allow a little extra time for the shuttle ride back to your terminal. The airport says departing passengers can catch the return shuttle from the ground floor near the central elevator.

Frequently Asked Questions About HNL Airport Rental Cars

Final Tips for Renting a Car at HNL

Picking up a rental car at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is usually straightforward once you know whether you can walk to the Consolidated Rent-A-Car facility or need to use the rental car shuttle. After baggage claim, follow signs to the CONRAC, complete your paperwork, inspect your vehicle, and you will be ready to start exploring Oahu.

To make the process smoother, confirm your rental company’s latest Honolulu pickup instructions before your trip and check whether your arrival area requires a walk or a shuttle. A little preparation can make your HNL rental car pickup much easier.

Remember, while all information is accurate at the time of this writing, be sure to visit the official Honolulu Airport Car Rental Page for the latest information.

By following these steps, you’ll have a smooth and stress-free car rental experience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Oahu at your own pace.