Los Angeles is one of the world’s most famous cities — and one of the most car-centric. Southern California’s best attractions stretch from the sunny shores of Santa Monica to the entertainment districts of Hollywood and the theme parks of Anaheim. For many travelers, car rental is not only convenient but a necessity if you’re flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Whether you’re looking to rent a car at LAX or just curious about the process, this complete guide has you covered with tips on how to save money, where to get a car, what to expect when you get on the road, and more.
Why Rent a Car at LAX?
There’s not much public transit in Los Angeles. The city’s bus system can take more than an hour to get downtown from the airport, and rideshare is available, but it can be expensive, particularly for longer trips. When you rent a car, you can do everything at your own time, go at your own speed, and visit places that are not covered by public transportation.
From business trips to family vacations to epic Pacific Coast Highway road trips, a rental car from LAX has everything you need to get to all of Southern California.
How LAX Car Rental System work?
Rental car companies at LAX are NOT in the terminals, unlike many smaller airports. All major car rental companies are located in the new Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility at 5251 W 98th Street, about 2.5 miles from the airport terminals.
Car Rental Companies at LAX
Currently, there are approximately 13 major rental car companies that have been granted permission to run shuttle service from the airport as of 2026. The most popular brands at the ConRAC are:
- Enterprise: Excellent customer service and a rewards program. A great option for both business and leisure travelers.
- Alamo: Often noted as having competitive pricing and an easy pick-up process.
- Hertz: One of the biggest fleets in the world, with everything from economy cars to premium vehicles.
- Avis: Avis provides a self-service kiosk and online check-in for quicker pick-up.
- Budget: A membership-based expedited service that is cost-effective.
- National: A decent mid-range choice, and has good vehicle availability.
- Dollar & Thrifty: Recommended for budget-conscious travelers.
There are also a number of off-airport rental car companies, such as Fox Rent A Car and ACE Rent a Car, that pick up customers at the Remote Rental Car Depot at Century and Airport Boulevards. These off-airport providers are generally 20-30% less expensive than on-airport companies, but may need additional shuttle time and have a bit more rigid policies.
Types of Vehicles
Car rental services in LAX provide various options for different needs:
- Economy/Compact – Best suited for one or two people. This vehicle is economical and easy to park.
- Intermediate/Full-Size – Most popular vehicle type at LAX. This is an all-round car suitable for a family and long-distance travel.
- Sport Utility Vehicles – Suitable for groups of people, road trips along the Pacific Coast Highway, and long distances with lots of luggage.
- Luxury & Exotic – Several companies, such as Enterprise Exotics at LAX, have luxury and exotic cars.
- Electric & Hybrid – Many rental companies provide electric and hybrid cars nowadays, including Tesla.
The Cost Of Car Rentals At Lax
The prices are significantly different throughout the year, between different vehicle classes, and depending on the booking date. The average price of a rental car from LAX is approximately $145 per day, compared to the U.S. national average of about $83 per day. Part of this premium is because of the airport concession fees, which usually range between 10-25% of the base rate.
Money-saving tips:
- Make a booking at least one week in advance – bookings made at the counter are always more expensive.
- Look at off-airport rental car companies such as Fox Rent A Car, which may be more affordable and accept young drivers (21+), and debit cards.
- Look for weekend vs. weekday pricing; weekdays (Mon-Thurs) are usually less expensive.
- Rent a car with a travel credit card; many high-end credit cards include car rental insurance on their card, so you can avoid the CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) that is often charged at the rental agency.
- If you know you will return the car without fuel, then it is more economical to pre-pay for fuel; otherwise, the “fair fuel” policy (return full, pay for what you use) is more economical.
Return Your Rental Vehicle
It is important to note that all rental car providers use the ConRAC return location. Make sure you follow the “Rental Car Return” signs along the way from the airport. The majority of the facilities operate around the clock, and even if you choose to drop off your vehicle after hours, you can do that by parking in the appropriate location and putting your keys in a box. Make sure you take some pictures of the mileage and fuel levels in the car because the vehicle will be inspected the following day.
Conclusion
If you plan on visiting Southern California, renting a vehicle at LAX is the wisest decision you will make. Not only does the ConRAC provide a convenient way to pick up and drop off your vehicle, but major car rental companies offer numerous types of cars to suit everyone’s needs. Off-airport rentals are also affordable, making car rentals available to all travelers.
FAQs
Once you’ve retrieved your luggage, proceed to the Lower/Arrivals Level outside of the baggage area and search for the purple “Rental Car Shuttles” signs. All the major rental car companies (Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and National) have courtesy buses that leave from this area regularly. The ride to the Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility is usually 5-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
The age limit for most rental car companies at LAX is 21 years old. The typical young driver surcharge for renters aged 21–24 is $25–$35 per day. Some car rental companies, such as Fox Rent A Car, are especially accommodating to younger renters. Generally, drivers under 21 are not eligible for rental, unless they are government or military personnel.
An IDP isn’t a requirement, as a foreign driver’s license is valid in California for up to three months. An IDP is strongly recommended, however, as it is an official translation of your license and could help avoid complications when stopped by police or if you are making a claim. It can also help with the check-in process when dealing with rental agents who might not be familiar with other languages’ licenses.
In California, rental car insurance is not mandatory when you rent a car if you are already covered by your personal auto insurance policy or a travel credit card that includes rental coverage. Rental companies will, however, always provide coverage options at the counter, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), supplemental liability, and personal accident insurance. Check existing policies before the trip to understand what coverage is in place and what is being waived.
Please book at least one week ahead for the most competitive rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons such as summer, spring break, and holidays. Prices can soar in the days before travel, and popular classes of vehicles, such as SUVs and vans, can sell out completely. Most companies will provide free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before pickup, so it is safe to book early.