This is the ultimate Ranking of the TOP 15 Car Rental Companies at Los Angeles Airport (LAX) in 2024. Find the best option for travel needs, updated ratings, pros & cons, and unlock special offers. We hope it helps you to decide on your next car rental booking.
In southern California, you will find a city of sunshine, film stars, districts, and neighborhoods rich in culture. Los Angeles is a city exploding with exciting attractions, health and wellness, and a large population of over 16 million people.
It’s clear why Los Angeles Airport (LAX), one of the largest and busiest international airports in the U.S., handles such high traffic. Located on the California coast, LAX serves as a hub for millions of travelers, offering flights to over 40 countries and commonly used for connections or vacation departures.
If your journey starts in this glamorous city, you’ll likely consider renting a car. Los Angeles Airport features numerous reputable car rental agencies with on-site representatives and kiosks, ensuring a smooth transition from air to road. We’ve compiled a list of the TOP 15 car rental agencies at LAX, along with some of their key features, to assist in your vacation planning.
Please note:
- The order of the companies in the ranking has been established by the average rating of these companies on Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Rentalcars.
- This data has been updated as of: July 2024.
Ranking of Best Car Rentals at Los Angeles Airport in 2024
1.- ALAMO (8.9/10)
ALAMO RENT A CAR is the best car rental company at LAX with an impressive score of 8.9/10 🏆. Located conveniently within the airport’s car rental hub, Alamo stands out for its seamless rental experience and exceptional customer service.
One of the most commented reviews from customers is how quick and easy it is to pick up your rental with Alamo. This is often one of the biggest stresses of renting a vehicle in a city you do not know but Alamo takes this worry away creating a hassle-free experience with an average wait time of ten minutes.
Operating 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, the main advantages of choosing Alamo include competitive pricing, a hassle-free check-in process via their self-service kiosks, online check-in, a free shuttle service to and from the terminals, and generous loyalty rewards for returning customers. Customers frequently praise Alamo for its cleanliness and the excellent condition of its vehicles, alongside the swift and friendly service provided by the Alamo team.
This company is renowned for its wide range of vehicles, from economical compacts to luxurious SUVs, ensuring every traveler finds the perfect match for their Los Angeles journey. SUVs such as the Jeep Renegade, Toyota Rav4, Jeep Wrangler, and Chevrolet Suburban all received this high rating.
When renting SUVs from Alamo, they offer a free tank of fuel policy. This allows you to start your trip with a full tank and use as much as you need without refueling before returning the vehicle. They also have convertible options like the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro available.
Alamo customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Outstanding Service at the rental desk
- ⭐ Very Quick pick-up process (Average waiting time is less than 15 minutes)
- ⭐ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
2.- SIXT (8.8/10)
SIXT is the second 🥈 in our ranking with an impressive 8.8/10. SIXT is a German company known both for offering a large fleet of premium vehicles and a premium service.
Choosing Sixt for your Los Angeles car rental means choosing an experience that combines luxury and convenience. Sixt offers a free shuttle service to their facility, which is only 5 minutes from the terminal.
They offer luxury and premium vehicles however, the economy Kia Rio, compact Toyota Yaris Sedan, and midsize Hyundai Elantra are the vehicles that are most recommended. If you want a luxury rental, the Mercedes S Class was the highest rated with Sixt. Convertible models such as BMW 8 Series, or Ford Mustang are also available at LAX with Sixt.
With a focus on customer satisfaction, Sixt offers round-the-clock support, a user-friendly mobile app for quick bookings, and flexible rental options to accommodate any travel schedule. This dedication to excellence in service and vehicle quality makes Sixt a top contender for anyone looking for the best car rental at LAX.
Customers often highlight the efficiency of the Sixt staff, the cleanliness of the vehicles, and the overall premium experience at the customer service rental desk as major advantages.
Sixt customer ratings:
- ⭐ Excellent cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔ Very Quick pick-up process (Average waiting time is less than 15 minutes)
- ✔ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔ Outstanding overall value for money
3.- ENTERPRISE (8.7/10)
ENTERPRISE holds a strong 🥉 position with a score of 8.7/10, celebrated for its extensive network and unparalleled customer care. Located conveniently at LAX, Enterprise caters to a wide audience, offering everything from budget-friendly options to luxury cars.
Enterprise distinguishes itself with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, offering personalized service and ensuring each rental meets specific client needs. Its loyalty program, Enterprise Plus, rewards frequent renters with upgrades and discounted rates, which is highly valued according to customer reviews.
Enterprise provides shuttle service to their offsite rental location on Ballanca Way. Simply make your way outside the airport to the center island and look for the purple sign that says Rental Car Shuttles where their free shuttle bus will pick you up. They also have self-service kiosks at the Los Angeles Airport, making your experience easy and efficient.
Their midsize Hyundai Elantra, Jeep Renegade, Chrysler 300, and midsize Toyota Rav4 receive the top ratings when deciding upon which vehicle to rent. Convertible models such as Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro are also available to book on Enterprise at LAX.
Enterprise is committed to a seamless rental experience, starting with a streamlined process at their LAX location for fast pick-ups and drop-offs. Customers often praise the professionalism of the staff, the cleanliness of the vehicles, and the overall value for money. Whether for business or leisure in Los Angeles, Enterprise offers a blend of variety, value, and service, ensuring a superior car rental experience.
Enterprise customer ratings:
- ✔️ Very good cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ⭐ Very Quick pick-up process (Average waiting time is less than 15 mins)
- ⭐ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Very good overall value for money
4.- NATIONAL (8.4/10)
With a score of 8.4/10, NATIONAL is highly regarded for its swift service and loyalty rewards program, making it a favorite among business travelers at LAX.
National’s efficiency and wide selection of vehicles make it a top choice for those seeking convenience and speed in car rental. Located in Inglewood, National, like other agencies, offers a free shuttle bus allowing customers to relax right after their flight. Customers frequently highlight the ease of upgrading vehicles and the attentive service from National’s staff as major advantages.
All of their midsize, standard, premium, SUVs, convertible, and luxury vehicles have positive feedback with fully sanitized vehicles. Another great feature is the unlimited mileage which is perfect for your long-distance exploring and adventures. There is no need to count mileage and concern yourself with surprise fees.
National prioritizes efficiency in its LAX car rental service, featuring the Drop & Go service and direct email receipts to streamline the return process. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in the well-maintained and reliable vehicles they offer, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. For travelers who value a quick and seamless rental experience, National provides an ideal mix of speed, convenience, and quality.
National customer ratings:
- ✔️ Very good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Very good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Very Quick pick-up process (Average waiting time is less than 15 minutes)
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Very good overall value for money
5.- MIDWAY CAR RENTAL (8.2/10)
Midway Car Rental, with its commendable score of 8.2 out of 10, stands out as a top-notch choice for travelers seeking the best car hire at LAX.
Located conveniently near Los Angeles International Airport (free shuttle bus service), Midway Car Rental offers a seamless and efficient rental experience that caters to a wide range of preferences and needs. Their fleet boasts a diverse selection of vehicles, from luxury cars and SUVs to economical options, ensuring that every customer finds the perfect match for their journey.
Customers rave about Midway Car Rental’s exceptional customer service and the overall quality of the vehicles. Key highlights include the company’s flexibility in accommodating last-minute changes, a straightforward booking process, and the cleanliness and maintenance of the car fleet.
Midway Car Rental is a good choice for visitors for its convenient LAX location, competitive pricing, and straightforward rental process. Positive reviews frequently highlight the company’s ability to exceed expectations, offering a stress-free and enjoyable car rental experience that greatly enhances the overall enjoyment of their Los Angeles trip.
Midway Car Rental customer ratings:
- ✔️ Very good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Very good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Very Quick pick-up process (Average waiting time is less than 15 minutes)
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Very good overall value for money
6.- HERTZ (8.1/10)
Securing a spot with an 8.1 out of 10, HERTZ remains a leading choice for travelers searching for the best car rental at LAX. Known for its extensive network and presence at Los Angeles International Airport, Hertz prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of vehicles to suit any requirement, from high-end luxury cars to more affordable, fuel-efficient models.
Their complimentary shuttle will take you to their location on West Century Boulevard where all their vehicles offer unlimited mileage and even infant and booster seats.
Customers often highlight the professionalism of the staff, the ease of the pick-up and return process, and the overall quality of the vehicle selection. The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction and its efforts to streamline the rental experience resonate well with users, reinforcing its reputation as a top car hire choice at LAX.
If your travel plans change Hertz has free cancellation up to 48 hours before picking up your rental. There is also no additional fee if you need to alter your booking online or via telephone right up until the time of receiving your vehicle. This flexibility can put your mind at ease while creating your travel plans.
Hertz customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
7.- SUPER CHEAP CAR (8.0/10)
With a solid score of 8.0 out of 10, Supercheapcar.com distinguishes itself as a favorite among budget-conscious travelers looking for the best car rental companies at LAX. This company has carved a niche by offering competitive rates without compromising on service or vehicle quality.
Located conveniently close to LAX, Supercheapcar.com caters to a diverse clientele, offering a range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Customers are particularly fond of the value for money Supercheapcar.com provides, highlighting the affordability of their rentals alongside commendable customer service. Reviews often note the transparency of their pricing, with no hidden fees, and the ease of the rental process from booking to return.
This company’s ability to blend cost-effectiveness with a satisfying rental experience makes it a standout option for those seeking a reliable yet affordable car rental company at Los Angeles International Airport.
Super Cheap Car customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
8.- AVIS (7.9/10)
AVIS has a solid rating of 7.9 out of 10, making it a popular choice at LAX. Known for its high-quality vehicle selection and convenient location near LAX, AVIS ensures a smooth and efficient experience for travelers.
This car rental company ranks high for its customer service at the rental desk and has an average wait time of only 5 minutes.
Avis serves a diverse clientele with its range from luxury to economical vehicles, ideal for different budgets. The best choices for rental at this location include economy, compact, minivan, and standard vehicles. Top-rated models like the Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus, Chrysler Pacifica, and Volkswagen Jetta offer great value with features like automatic transmission and air conditioning.
The park and lock feature is convenient in the returns area where you easily drop off the keys, complete the contract, and continue to your flight.
Avis customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ⭐ Very Quick pick-up process (Average waiting time is less than 10 mins)
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
9.- ACE RENT A CAR (7.8/10)
ACE Rent a Car is a company with branches all over the world, and also offers service at LAX. ACE secures its place with a score of 7.8 out of 10, marking it as a reliable and customer-focused car rental company at LAX.
Although it has some negative ratings about the waits to pick up the car or the typical complaints about deposits or insurance, their customer service is excellent and covers the rest of the deficiencies you might have.
Its LAX location is conveniently positioned to serve travelers, offering a range of vehicles from efficient compacts to roomy SUVs, all at competitive prices. ACE is located Off-Airport, but offers Free Shuttle Service to their facilities.
Reviewers often commend ACE for its hassle-free rental experience, highlighting the company’s friendly staff and quick, efficient pick-up and drop-off procedures. Customers appreciate the straightforward pricing and the overall value offered, making ACE a favored choice for those seeking an uncomplicated and affordable car rental experience in Los Angeles.
ACE Rent-a-Car customer ratings:
- ✔️Good cleanliness of the car
- ⭐ Excellent service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Very good overall value for money
10.- BUDGET (7.4/10)
BUDGET was given a 7.4 out of 10, however, clients did note they were quite happy with the overall cleanliness of their rental vehicle. Situated conveniently for travelers arriving at Los Angeles International Airport, Budget provides a wide array of vehicles, from budget-friendly compacts to spacious SUVs and vans, catering to a variety of travel needs and preferences.
They provide a shuttle every 5 – 10 minutes at the airport pick-up location so you do not need to wait long for service.
Budget is often praised for its competitive pricing, which is achieved without sacrificing service quality. Customers appreciate the simplicity of the online booking process and the efficiency of car pick-up and return, themes that are common in positive reviews. Budget’s reputation for providing a reliable and affordable car rental experience at LAX makes it a favored choice for travelers seeking to maximize their budget while exploring Los Angeles.
Like other car rental agencies, Budget offers 24-hour drop-off availability and straightforward after-hours return procedures. For an even faster experience, Budget’s Fastbreak membership allows you to skip the line. Members simply present a valid license, pick up their keys, and are ready to explore Los Angeles.
Budget customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
11.- THRIFTY (7.3/10)
THRIFTY, with a commendable score of 7.3 out of 10, is recognized for its blend of affordability and quality, making it a notable choice among the car rental companies at LAX.
Conveniently located near Los Angeles International Airport, Thrifty appeals to travelers with its variety of car options, from economical compact cars to larger SUVs and vans, suitable for all types of travel needs. The brand’s focus on delivering value for money without compromising on customer service or vehicle quality sets it apart.
Positive reviews often highlight the friendly and helpful nature of the staff, alongside the cleanliness and reliability of the vehicles offered. Thrifty’s commitment to providing a budget-friendly yet quality car hire experience at LAX earns it high marks from travelers.
Customers appreciate Thrifty’s straightforward reservation process and the efficiency of their pick-up and drop-off services, making the rental experience smooth and hassle-free. They offer pre-registration allowing you to add all the driver details before you pick up the vehicle-saving time during your vacation.
If choosing to rent any of their vehicles such as their positively rated compact Ford Focus, Nisan Versa or midsize Kia Optima, and Chevrolet Malibu they all come with one free additional driver in your contract.
Thrifty customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Very Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
12.- DOLLAR (7.2/10)
Earning a score of 7.2 out of 10, DOLLAR is celebrated for offering competitive pricing and a wide selection of vehicles for travelers looking for a car rental at LAX.
Its strategic location close to the airport complements its mission to provide convenient and efficient service to all its customers. From sleek sedans for business travelers to spacious SUVs for families, Dollar ensures a fit for every type of visitor.
Dollar is frequently praised for its straightforward approach to car rental, with customers appreciating the easy booking process, transparent pricing, free additional drivers, and quick vehicle pick-up and return. The professionalism of the staff and the quality of the rental experience make Dollar a favored choice for those seeking affordable and reliable car hire at Los Angeles International Airport.
One of the rentals you will find on their site is a special edition car which is a mystery, they choose the surprise vehicle. The type of vehicle you can be issued can be compact or larger.
Dollar customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
13.- EUROPCAR (7.1/10)
EUROPCAR, rated 7.1 out of 10, is recognized as a reliable choice for international travelers looking for car rentals at LAX. Though perhaps more well-known to European customers, Europcar’s presence at Los Angeles International Airport provides a smooth rental experience for visitors worldwide. The company’s varied fleet, ranging from luxury to economical vehicles, accommodates a broad spectrum of preferences and budgets.
Europcar is praised for its user-friendly booking system and the efficiency of its service, including quick pick-up and return processes. Reviews often note the cleanliness of the vehicles and the courteous, professional service provided by the staff. For travelers accustomed to Europcar’s international standards, finding this trusted brand at LAX means enjoying a familiar quality of service and vehicle reliability.
Europcar customer ratings:
- ✔️ Good cleanliness of the car
- ✔️ Good service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ✔️ Good overall value for money
14.- ZIPCAR (6.0/10)
ZIPCAR, scoring 6.0 out of 10, introduces a different approach to car rental at LAX, focusing on flexibility and convenience with its car-sharing model. Ideal for travelers with shorter itineraries or those needing a vehicle for just a few hours, Zipcar offers a practical alternative to traditional car rentals. With locations around Los Angeles, including spots near LAX, Zipcar caters to those looking for quick, hassle-free access to a car.
Customers value the ease of using the Zipcar app to locate and access vehicles, appreciating the pay-by-the-hour model that includes gas and insurance. Though it may not offer the traditional car rental experience, Zipcar’s innovative service meets the needs of a growing segment of travelers seeking short-term mobility solutions in Los Angeles.
Zipcar customer ratings:
- ⚠ Average cleanliness of the car
- ⚠ No service at the rental desk. The whole process is done through its APP.
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ⚠ Average overall value for money
15.- FOX (5.6/10)
And the last in our ranking is Fox Car Rental, with a score of 5.6 out of 10. Fox provides another budget-friendly option for car rental at LAX. Despite its lower ranking, Fox offers significant savings for cost-conscious travelers without significantly compromising on the quality of the rental experience.
Located near Los Angeles International Airport, Fox presents a range of vehicle options from economy cars to SUVs and minivans, aimed at accommodating various travel needs and preferences.
While Fox may receive mixed reviews, many customers acknowledge the value for money it provides, highlighting competitive rates as a major advantage. Reviews often mention satisfactory experiences with the vehicle’s condition and the efficiency of the rental process.
For travelers prioritizing budget over brand, Fox represents a viable option for affordable car hire at LAX, offering the essentials of car rental service at competitive prices.
Fox customer ratings:
- ⚠ Average cleanliness of the car
- ⚠ Average service at the rental desk
- ✔️ Quick pick-up process
- ✔️ Quick drop-off process
- ⚠ Average overall value for money
Choosing a car rental company might be an overwhelming task for some travelers at Los Angeles Airport due to the many options available in the country. However, many clear factors can help us more easily narrow down the options: Daily prices, weekly prices, cars available, rewards programs, and customer ratings.
Other Car Rental TIPS in Los Angeles
How early to arrive at LAX with a rental car?
Returning a rental car and catching a flight at LAX can require some planning due to the potential for heavy traffic around the airport and within the car rental return area. It’s generally recommended to arrive at the rental car facility at least 2 to 3 hours before your domestic flight’s departure time. For international flights, consider extending this to 3 to 4 hours before your departure.
This time frame should provide sufficient cushion for navigating any unforeseen delays, shuttling from the car rental facility to your terminal, and proceeding through security and to your gate. Keep in mind, that traffic conditions in Los Angeles can be unpredictable, and the shuttle ride from the rental car facility to the terminals may take longer during peak travel periods or if there are any special events happening in the city.
Always check your airline’s recommended check-in and boarding times, as these can vary and may require additional time at the airport. It’s also wise to monitor traffic reports on the day of your flight and adjust your arrival time at the rental car facility accordingly.
Where are the rental car counters located at LAX?
Although LAX is a bustling, fast-moving airport your car rental experience does not have to be overwhelming. The pick-up destination for your shuttle bus is easy to find, it is just outside the baggage claim area.
There will be plenty of signage directing you and there are always representatives on-site to assist you. Ensure you are boarding the correct shuttle corresponding to your rental company as not all off-site locations are in one place.
Most of the agencies’ physical offices are close by and it should not take long for you to complete the necessary paperwork having you quickly on the road. Los Angeles is a place of dreams and having the right car rental for you and your family makes it possible to drive off into the sunshine for your dream vacation.
Pick Up in Terminal – Free shuttle bus
Rental Car offices are placed off-airport, away from airline terminals. These rent-a-car companies are allowed to pick up and drop off their customers at the airline terminals using free shuttles. These companies meet arriving customers under the purple Rental Car Shuttles sign on the Lower/Arrivals Level islands outside baggage claim.
Regarding shuttle frequency, car rental shuttles at LAX typically run very frequently, often around every 10-15 minutes, 24 hours a day. However, the exact frequency can vary by company and time of day, with some possibly operating on slightly different schedules during off-peak hours or due to operational needs. It’s always a good idea to check with your specific car rental company for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their shuttle service schedule to plan your arrival and transfer to the airport accordingly.
Remote Rental Car Depot Service
These rental car companies are required to meet customers at the Remote Rental Car Depot. This facility is located at the intersection of Century and Airport Boulevards. Customers have boarded the Economy Lot E shuttle bus. This service is operated by LAZ Parking and stops under the blue LAX Shuttle Airline Connection sign.
Is there a One-Way Car Rental Service from LAX?
The answer is YES. Do you need to rent a car at Los Angeles Airport and drop off it at other of these popular locations in California or other states such as San Francisco Airport, San Jose Airport, John Wayne Airport, Oakland Airport, San Diego Airport, Fresno Yosemite Airport, Sacramento Airport or Las Vegas Airport? No problem, take advantage of our offers for Los Angeles Airport.
Rent a car at Los Angeles International Airport or Downtown and return it at any other location at a really good price. Our prices include one-way fees. These are the routes most frequently used by travelers:
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off San Francisco Airport
- Time: 5 hours 41 minutes
- Distance: 378 miles via I-5 N
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off Oakland Airport
- Time: 5 hours 27 minutes
- Distance: 368 miles via I-5 N
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off San Jose Airport
- Time: 5 hours 14 minutes
- Distance: 348 miles via I-5 N
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off San Diego Airport
- Time: 2 hours 6 minutes
- Distance: 124 miles via I-15 S
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off Sacramento Airport
- Time: 6 hours 39 minutes
- Distance: 431 miles via I-405 S and I-5 S
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off Fresno Yosemite Airport Airport
- Time: 3 hours 29 minutes
- Distance: 228 miles via I-5 N and CA-99 N
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off Santa Ana John Wayne Airport
- Time: 37 minutes
- Distance: 40 miles via I-405 S
Pick up Los Angeles and drop off Las Vegas McCarran Airport
- Time: 4 hours 2 minutes
- Distance: 280 miles via I-15 N
We hope you liked this article. Now you can continue reading our article about the differences between Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Payless, Sixt, Thrifty, Dollar, Alamo, National, and more, or use the button below to book your car.