Enterprise has rental counters at both DFW terminals, but the process and location matter

Enterprise operates rental desks at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You can pick up a car when ready after landing, but the specific counter location depends on which terminal your flight arrives at. Enterprise also runs an off-airport location a few miles from DFW, which sometimes offers lower daily rates than the airport counters, though you'll need ground transportation to reach it.

The airport counters are staffed during all operating hours, but wait times vary by time of day and season. Early morning and late evening tend to be quieter than midday. If you're renting during peak travel periods—holidays, weekends, summer—expect longer lines and potentially limited vehicle availability in your preferred class.

Key Takeaways

  • Enterprise has rental counters in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at DFW Airport, so go to whichever terminal your flight arrives at.
  • You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance (your own policy or Enterprise's coverage) to complete the rental.
  • The off-airport Enterprise location near DFW sometimes charges less per day than the airport counters, but you'll need a ride to get there.
  • Reservation confirmation numbers help you move faster through the counter, but Enterprise does not may provide a specific vehicle model or class.

What you need to bring to the rental counter

Bring your valid driver's license—a state ID, passport, or military ID all work. Enterprise will also ask for a credit card in your own name; they use it to hold a security deposit, which is released when you return the car undamaged. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but policies vary by location, so call ahead if that's your only option.

You'll need proof of insurance. This can be your own auto insurance card, a policy document, or an insurance confirmation email. If you don't have your own coverage, Enterprise offers damage waivers and liability coverage at the counter—these are optional but common for renters without personal auto insurance. The cost depends on the coverage level you choose and the rental duration.

If you're under 25, Enterprise charges an additional daily fee (the amount varies). Drivers under 21 are not rented to at DFW Airport locations. If someone else will be driving the car, bring their license too; Enterprise will add them as an authorized driver, sometimes at no extra cost depending on your rental agreement.

How to reserve a car before you arrive

You can reserve online through Enterprise.com or by phone at 1-800-RENT-A-CAR. Online reservations take a few minutes and give you a confirmation number to bring to the counter. Having a reservation speeds up the check-in process, but it does not may provide a specific vehicle—Enterprise assigns cars based on availability when you arrive.

When you reserve, you'll choose a vehicle class (economy, midsize, SUV, truck) and a rate. The rate you see online is locked in if you complete the reservation, but it may change if you modify the dates or location later. Some reservations include unlimited mileage; others charge per mile. Read the terms before confirming.

If you're a member of Enterprise Plus (their loyalty program), you can skip the counter entirely at some locations and go straight to the lot to pick your car. This feature is not available at all DFW counters, so check your confirmation email to see if it applies to your rental.

Picking up your car at the airport counter

After you collect your luggage and clear baggage claim, follow signs for "Car Rental" or "Ground Transportation." Both terminals have rental car facilities. In Terminal 1, the Enterprise counter is on the lower level near the other rental companies. In Terminal 2, it's also on the lower level, clearly marked.

At the counter, give your confirmation number and driver's license. The agent will review your reservation, confirm the vehicle class, and explain the damage and fuel policy. You'll sign the rental agreement—read it carefully, especially the mileage terms and damage liability section. The agent will then direct you to the lot or garage where your assigned car is parked.

Before you drive away, do a walk-around inspection. Check for dents, scratches, and interior damage. Take photos or video on your phone if you see anything—this protects you from being charged for damage you didn't cause. The agent should have already noted the car's condition on the agreement, but your own record is valuable if a dispute arises later.

Fuel, mileage, and return policies

Enterprise typically offers a "full-to-full" fuel policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. If you return it with less fuel, Enterprise charges you for the missing gas at a per-gallon rate that's usually higher than local gas prices. Some reservations include a pre-purchased fuel option, where you pay for a full tank upfront and can return the car empty—this is cheaper if you know you'll use most of the tank.

Mileage is either unlimited or charged per mile, depending on your rate. Check your confirmation email to see which applies to your rental. Unlimited mileage is common for longer rentals; per-mile charges are more typical for short trips. If you exceed the mileage limit, you'll be charged when you return the car.

Return the car to the same Enterprise location where you picked it up—the DFW airport counter. You can return it during business hours or use the after-hours drop-off lot if you're returning outside counter hours. After-hours returns are available 24/7; just park the car in the designated area and leave the keys in the drop box. Enterprise will inspect the car and email you a final receipt within a few days.

The off-airport Enterprise location near DFW

Enterprise has a location at 2500 West Airport Freeway in Irving, about 3 miles from the airport terminals. This location sometimes offers lower daily rates than the airport counters because it avoids airport facility fees. However, you'll need to arrange transportation to reach it—a rideshare, taxi, or hotel shuttle.

If you're comparing prices, factor in the cost of getting to the off-airport location. For a one-day rental, the savings might not justify the extra transportation cost. For a week-long rental, the daily savings can add up. You can reserve at this location online and specify it as your pickup point.

Return the car to the same location you picked it up. If you rented from the off-airport location, you must return it there, not at the airport counter. Plan your return trip accordingly, especially if you're catching a flight.

What to know about damage, insurance, and disputes

Enterprise holds you responsible for damage to the rental car. This includes dents, scratches, broken windows, and interior stains. The damage waiver (also called a Loss Damage Waiver or LDW) covers most accidental damage, but it costs extra—typically $15 to $30 per day depending on the car class. If you decline the waiver and damage occurs, you'll pay the full repair cost, which can be hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Your personal auto insurance may cover rental cars, so check your policy before buying Enterprise's waiver. Some credit cards also offer rental car coverage if you charge the rental to that card. If you have either of these, you may not need to buy the waiver. If you don't have coverage and don't buy the waiver, you're financially responsible for any damage.

If you dispute a damage charge after returning the car, contact Enterprise customer service with photos of the damage you documented at pickup. Enterprise will review the claim, but the burden is on you to prove the damage existed before you rented the car. This is why the walk-around inspection and your own photos are critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car if I'm visiting from another country?

Yes, but you'll need a valid passport and an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your driver's license from your home country. Some countries' licenses are recognized without an IDP, but Enterprise will tell you at the counter if yours isn't. You'll also need a credit card in your name.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late returns are charged at the daily rate or an hourly rate, depending on how late you are. A few hours over might be charged as a partial day; significantly late returns may be charged as an additional full day. Call Enterprise as soon as you realize you'll be late—they may waive a small overage if you notify them in advance.

Can I add a driver after I've already picked up the car?

You can contact Enterprise and request to add a driver, but you'll need to return to the counter or call to update the agreement. It's easier to add all drivers at pickup. If someone not listed on the agreement is caught driving the car, you may lose coverage for damage or liability.

Is there a way to avoid the airport counter line?

Enterprise Plus members can skip the counter at some locations and pick a car directly from the lot. Check your confirmation email to see if this applies. Otherwise, arriving early in the morning or late in the evening typically means shorter waits than midday.

What if the car breaks down while I'm renting it?

Call Enterprise roadside information—the number is on your rental agreement and key tag. They'll arrange a tow or send a replacement vehicle. You're not responsible for mechanical failures covered under the car's warranty. If the breakdown is due to your misuse (like running out of oil), you may be charged.