What to expect when you rent from Enterprise at Denver Airport
Enterprise operates a rental counter at Denver International Airport (DEN) in the main terminal building. You can pick up a car at the counter when you arrive, or reserve one in advance online or by phone. The rental process takes about 15 to 20 minutes if you have your documents ready — driver's license, credit card, and proof of insurance if you're bringing your own coverage.
Enterprise at DEN handles both one-way rentals (where you return the car to a different location) and standard airport pickups. The location is open during all terminal hours, so you can rent a car whenever you land. Rates vary by season and demand, and you'll pay an airport facility charge on top of the daily rental rate — this fee is set by the airport authority, not by Enterprise.
The counter is located in the main terminal on Level 5, in the rental car center. If you're renting a car for the first time or haven't rented from Enterprise before, allow extra time to complete the paperwork and ask questions about the vehicle.
Key Takeaways
- Enterprise's Denver Airport counter is in the main terminal on Level 5 and is open whenever the airport operates.
- You need a valid driver's license, credit card, and proof of insurance (yours or the rental company's) to complete the rental.
- Airport facility charges are added to your daily rate and are set by Denver International Airport, not by Enterprise.
- Reserving in advance online or by phone usually locks in a lower rate than renting at the counter without a reservation.
- One-way rentals to other Colorado cities or states are available but may carry additional drop-off fees depending on the destination.
Documents you need to bring
You must have a valid driver's license issued by a U.S. state, Canadian province, or other country recognized by the U.S. Department of State. An expired license will not work. If your license is from outside the U.S., bring your passport or travel document as well.
You also need a credit card in your own name to hold as a deposit. Enterprise will place a hold on the card for the rental amount plus a security deposit (usually $200 to $500, depending on the car class). The hold is released when you return the vehicle, but it can take several business days to clear from your account.
Proof of insurance is required. This can be your own auto insurance policy, a card from your insurer, or the rental company's coverage if you purchase it at the counter. If you use your own insurance, bring a copy of your policy or a declaration page showing your coverage limits and the vehicles covered.
How to reserve a car before you arrive
You can reserve a car on Enterprise's website (enterprise.com) or by calling 1-800-261-7331. When you reserve online, you'll enter your pickup date, time, and location (Denver International Airport), your return date and location, and your driver information. Enterprise will show you available car classes and prices for those dates.
Reserving in advance usually costs less than renting at the counter without a reservation, especially during peak travel seasons. Your reservation is held under your name and confirmation number, which you'll receive by email. You can modify or cancel most reservations online up to 24 hours before pickup without penalty.
If you need a specific car type — a sedan, SUV, truck, or van — note that Enterprise cannot may provide a specific model, only a car class. You'll receive a vehicle in the class you reserved, but the exact make and model may vary depending on what's available when you arrive.
Airport facility charges and additional fees
Denver International Airport charges a facility fee on all car rentals picked up at the airport. This fee is separate from the daily rental rate and is set by the airport authority. The facility charge is added to your final bill and varies depending on the rental duration and vehicle class.
You may also see charges for fuel, insurance, tolls, or late return fees on your bill. If you rent the car with a full tank of gas, you're expected to return it with a full tank or pay Enterprise's per-gallon rate for any fuel you used. If you don't return the car on time, late fees explore — usually $40 to $75 per day, depending on how late you are.
Damage to the vehicle, traffic violations, or toll violations incurred during your rental may be billed to your credit card after you return the car. Enterprise will contact you if they find damage or if a toll authority sends them a bill for violations you caused.
Returning your rental car at Denver Airport
You can return your rental car to the Enterprise counter in the main terminal on Level 5, or to the off-airport Enterprise location if you prefer. Most renters return to the airport location for convenience. The return process takes about 5 to 10 minutes — an agent will inspect the car for damage, check the fuel level, and process your final bill.
If you return the car after the rental counter closes, you can use the after-hours return lot. Enterprise will inspect the vehicle the next business day and send you a final bill by email or mail. Make sure you keep your keys and rental agreement in case there are questions about the return.
If you rented a one-way car and are returning it to a different location, return it to the Enterprise location in that city by your scheduled return date and time. One-way returns may carry additional fees depending on the distance and destination.
Insurance and damage coverage options
Enterprise offers several insurance and damage coverage options at the rental counter. The most common are Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers damage to the rental car, and Liability Coverage, which covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property. You can also purchase Personal Effects Coverage, which covers items stolen from the car.
If you have your own auto insurance, check your policy to see what coverage it provides for rental cars. Many personal auto policies cover rental vehicles at no extra cost, which means you may not need to purchase Enterprise's coverage. Call your insurance company before you rent to confirm what's covered.
Credit cards often include rental car coverage as a cardholder benefit. Check your card's benefits guide or call the card issuer to see whether it covers collision damage, liability, or both. If your credit card covers rentals, you can decline Enterprise's coverage and use the card's protection instead.
Getting to and from the Enterprise counter
The Enterprise counter is located in the main terminal building on Level 5, in the rental car center. From baggage claim, follow signs for "Rental Cars" or "Ground Transportation." The walk from baggage claim to the rental car center takes about 10 to 15 minutes depending on which baggage carousel you use.
If you prefer not to walk, you can take the airport shuttle or ride-share service to the rental car center. The airport also operates a free shuttle between the main terminal and the remote parking areas where some rental companies keep overflow inventory.
When you return your car, follow signs for "Rental Car Return" from the departure level. The return lot is clearly marked, and agents will direct you to the correct Enterprise bay. Allow extra time if you're returning the car during peak hours (early morning or late afternoon), as the return lot can get busy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car if I'm under 25 years old?
Yes, but Enterprise charges an underage driver fee (usually $15 to $25 per day) for drivers under 25. You must still have a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. Some car classes may not be available to drivers under 25, depending on Enterprise's policy at that location.
What if I need to extend my rental after I've picked up the car?
Call Enterprise as soon as you know you need the car longer. If the car is available and you have the credit available on your card, they can extend the rental and adjust your bill. Extensions are subject to availability and may cost more than your original rate if demand is high.
Do I have to buy a tank of gas when I rent?
No. You can rent the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank at no extra charge. If you return it with less fuel, Enterprise will charge you their per-gallon rate for the fuel you used, which is usually higher than gas station prices. You can also prepay for a full tank at a discounted rate when you rent.
What happens if I get a speeding ticket or parking ticket while renting?
You are responsible for any traffic violations or parking tickets incurred during your rental. The citation will be sent to Enterprise, and they will forward it to you along with an administrative fee. Pay the ticket according to the court or municipality's instructions.
Can I rent a car one-way from Denver to another city?
Yes. One-way rentals are available to most cities in Colorado and neighboring states. The cost depends on the distance and destination. You can reserve a one-way rental online or by phone, and you'll return the car to an Enterprise location in your destination city by your scheduled return date.