Los Angeles Airport (LAX) Rental Car Guide

Quick Summary

Approximately 30-45 minutes from deboarding the plane to a rental counter. Rental car companies are located at the Rent a Car Center. This is off site, and will require a shuttle to get to. Go to the lower / arrivals level and follow the signs to the "Rental Car Shuttles" area.

Time to reach rental counters

Best companies overall

National - Emerald Aisle bypasses all the headache of renting a vehicle. Choose any car at the midsize rate, get in, and go. Skipping the counter is worth spending a little more.

SIXT - Sixt has the most premium fleet in Los Angeles. (and in the U.S for that matter) Incredible pricing during off-peak seasons that rival or beat the budget brands. Lines at this location move very quickly, and the rental process at the counter typically only lasts around 3-5 minutes. Generally have every type of vehicle available, including high end luxury vehicles.

Enterprise - Enterprise offers one of the most consistent rental experiences in the industry, with newer vehicles, strong customer service, and reliable availability at most airports. Expect higher pricing, but a smoother, more dependable overall experience.

Best for budget travelers

Sixt - The Los Angeles location has very competitive pricing. Before booking with anyone else, be sure to check what Sixt is offering. You'll often find them offering brand new X3's at the same price as a midsize SUV from their competitors.

Thrifty - Offers some of the cheapest rates at most airports, making it appealing for quick trips or tight budgets. Service and fleet quality can vary, and wait times will be long during peak seasons.

Budget - Budget lives up to its name with consistently low prices and wide vehicle availability. Expect longer lines during peak times, but it’s a solid pick for travelers who want the lowest upfront cost without major compromises.

Rental Car Center Location

Most major rental car companies at LAX operate from the new LAX Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility, located at:

5251 W 98th St
Los Angeles, CA 90045

A few companies are still finishing their transition to the new center and may operate from nearby lots instead. If your rental confirmation shows a different address (commonly on Aviation Blvd or Airport Blvd), follow the pickup instructions provided by your rental company.

Check your reservation email for the exact pickup address.

Return Instructions

Where to Return Your Vehicle

If your rental company operates from the new LAX Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility, follow signs for “Rental Car Return” as you approach the airport area. The signs will direct you toward 98th Street, where you’ll enter the main rental car complex.

If your rental company is still using a separate location (commonly along Aviation Blvd or Airport Blvd), follow the return address listed in your confirmation email. Most return routes come from Century Blvd.

After You Return the Vehicle

• Walk into the rental center.

• Follow signs for “LAX Shuttle” or “Airport Terminals.”

• Shuttles depart from the front of the building and serve all LAX terminals.

Fuel

Don't forget to refuel your vehicle before you drop of if you opted out of the rental companies prepaid fuel option. Filling up further away from the airport will save you a few cents per galloncar facility.

Toll Roads and Express Lanes

Do You Need a Toll Pass in Los Angeles

Most visitors never need to use a toll road when driving around Los Angeles. You can reach LAX, Santa Monica, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, downtown LA, Universal Studios, and Disneyland entirely on free highways.

When a Toll Pass Might Help

You might consider it if:

• You're commuting into downtown using the I-10 or I-110 ExpressLanes

• You're staying in Orange County and frequently using the 73 or 241 toll roads

• You want the fastest rush-hour routes

Best Rental Car Companies in Las Vegas

National - Fastest and Easiest

National is a top choice at LAX for one simple reason: Emerald Aisle saves you time. There’s no counter, no upsell pressure, and no waiting in line after a long shuttle ride. You can check in on the app, walk straight to the aisle, choose your own car, and drive out without speaking to anyone. For travelers who value speed and convenience, National is hard to beat.

Best for: Business travelers, loyalty members, anyone who wants the fastest pickup.

Sixt - Best Fleet, Options, and Service

Sixt offers the most premium fleet at LAX, with everything from Toyota Camrys and Hyundai Sonatas to BMW XMs, Hummer EVs, and even G-Wagons at certain times. If you want something stylish, newer, or more luxurious than what most rental companies offer, Sixt is the standout. They’re also a great choice for travelers who enjoy variety and are open to upgrading.

Best for: Travelers wanting luxury vehicles or premium SUVs.

Enterprise - Most consistent

Enterprise delivers one of the most dependable rental experiences. They maintain a newer fleet, and offer strong customer service. They may not be as fast as National or as flashy as Sixt, but they’re consistently good.

Best for: Long-term renters, anyone wanting a smooth, predictable experience.

Budget - Good Prices, Solid Consistency

Budget offers some of the most competitive mainstream pricing at LAX while still delivering a generally reliable experience. For the price, they offer good value and manageable service times. Travelers looking to save at LAX should look through the rates at Budget.

Best for: Travelers searching for the best daily rate.

Insider Tips for Renting at LAX

Plan extra time for traffic around the airport, especially during afternoons, weekends, and holidays. The roads near LAX get congested and can slow down both pickup and return.

Check the car’s A/C before leaving the lot. LA heat and traffic make strong air conditioning important, and it’s much easier to swap vehicles at pickup than later.

Take quick photos of the car from all sides before exiting the rental facility. This protects you from any disputes at return time and is a good habit at busy airports like LAX.

Avoid refueling right next to the airport. Gas stations near LAX often charge higher prices. Filling up 10–15 minutes away can save you money.

Consider the size of your vehicle. Parking garages throughout LA can be narrow and tight. If you don’t need a large SUV, a midsize sedan is usually easier to park and maneuver.

Book early for holidays and major events. Demand spikes during award shows, sports games, conventions, and summer travel. Prices increase quickly and cars can sell out.