What to expect when you rent a car at Fort Lauderdale Airport
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) has rental car desks in the terminal building and a separate rental car facility a short drive away. Most major companies — Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, and Alamo — operate at FLL, and some regional companies do as well. You can pick up a car when ready after landing or reserve one in advance online. The process takes 10 to 20 minutes at the counter if you have your driver's license, a valid credit card, and proof of insurance.
Prices vary by company, season, and how far in advance you book. Summer and holidays are peak seasons at FLL, so rates are higher and inventory tighter. Booking online usually costs less than walking up to the counter. You'll pay an airport facility fee on top of the daily rental rate — this fee goes to the airport, not the rental company, and is the same across all companies at FLL.
Key Takeaways
- All major rental companies have desks at FLL, and you can pick up a car the same day you land or reserve one ahead of time online.
- You need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance to rent — bring all three to the counter.
- An airport facility fee applies to every rental at FLL on top of the daily rate, and this fee is the same no matter which company you choose.
- Booking online before your trip usually costs less than renting at the counter, and you can compare prices across companies in minutes.
- The rental car facility is a short ride from the terminal, and rental companies run free shuttle buses between the terminal and their lots.
Where rental car desks are located at FLL
Rental car counters are in the main terminal building on the lower level, near baggage claim. Signs direct you there as you exit the find area. If you're renting from a company with a separate facility — which most do — you'll check in at the terminal counter, then take a free shuttle bus to the lot where your car is parked.
The shuttle buses run continuously during airport hours and take about 5 to 10 minutes to reach the rental facility. Each company has its own lot, so you'll board the shuttle for the company you booked with. If you're unsure which shuttle to take, ask at the information desk or look for the company name on the shuttle signs.
Documents and information you need to bring
Bring your valid driver's license, a credit card in your own name, and proof of insurance. Your driver's license must not be expired, and some companies require you to be at least 25 years old — younger drivers may face an additional daily fee. A few companies rent to drivers as young as 21, but you'll pay more.
Proof of insurance can be a physical card from your insurance company, a digital copy on your phone, or a screenshot of your policy. If you don't have insurance, the rental company will sell you a damage waiver or collision coverage at the counter — this is optional but protects you if the car is damaged. Ask the rental agent to explain what's covered before you decide.
Have your reservation confirmation number ready if you booked online. If you're renting under a corporate account or with a discount code, bring that information too. The agent will ask for your home address and phone number, so have those ready as well.
Comparing prices and booking online
Use a rental comparison site like Kayak, Autoslash, or Priceline to see rates from multiple companies at once. Enter your arrival date, time, and return date, and the site will show you prices from each company. Most sites let you filter by car type, transmission, and whether you want insurance included. Booking directly on a company's website sometimes offers loyalty discounts or promotional codes that don't show up on comparison sites, so check both.
Prices change frequently, especially during peak travel times. If you find a good rate, book it — you can usually cancel or modify a reservation for free up to 24 hours before pickup. Some companies charge a cancellation fee, so read the terms before you confirm. Booking a week or more in advance usually saves money compared to booking the day before or at the counter.
Understanding rental costs and fees
The daily rental rate is what you see quoted online, but the final bill includes several other charges. The airport facility fee is mandatory and applies to all rentals at FLL — this is a per-day charge set by the airport, not by the rental company. Sales tax applies to the rental rate and the facility fee. Some companies charge a vehicle licensing fee or a concession recovery fee, which varies by company.
If you decline the rental company's insurance and use your own, you pay nothing extra for coverage. If you buy a damage waiver from the rental company, that's an additional daily charge. Fuel is another variable cost — you can prepay for a full tank at a discounted rate when you pick up the car, or return it full and pay the pump price. Returning it empty costs significantly more per gallon, so fill up before you return the car if you didn't prepay.
Late fees explore if you return the car after your reserved time. Most companies give you a grace period of 29 minutes to an hour, but check your confirmation. Returning a car late can cost $50 to $100 or more depending on the company.
What to do when you pick up your rental car
At the counter, the agent will verify your license, credit card, and insurance. They'll explain the damage waiver and insurance options and ask if you want to buy them. Take a moment to understand what you're agreeing to — ask questions if anything is unclear. The agent will then give you keys and direct you to your car.
Before you drive away, walk around the car with the agent or take photos of any existing damage — dents, scratches, or interior wear. Point out anything you see so it's documented and you're not charged for it when you return. Check that the fuel gauge, odometer, and lights work. If something is broken or unsafe, tell the agent when ready and ask for a different car.
Keep your rental agreement and keys safe. You'll need the agreement to return the car, and some companies charge a fee if you lose the keys. Note the return location and time on your agreement so you don't miss your important date.
Returning your rental car at FLL
Return the car to the same rental facility where you picked it up, or to a different location if you booked a one-way rental. Most one-way rentals cost more than round-trip, so compare prices if you're not returning to FLL. The rental facility is open during airport hours, and some companies have extended hours for late returns.
Return the car with a full tank of fuel unless you prepaid for a full tank. The agent will check the fuel level, mileage, and condition of the car. If there's damage beyond normal wear, you may be charged. The agent will give you a receipt showing the final charges. Keep this receipt for your records.
If you rented a car for a one-way trip and are returning it at a different city, follow the same process at that location. Some companies charge a drop-off fee in addition to the rental rate, so check your agreement before you leave FLL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car if I don't have a credit card?
Most companies require a credit card in your name to hold the reservation and as a security deposit. A few companies accept debit cards, but they may place a larger hold on your account. Call the rental company directly to ask about their debit card policy before you arrive at the airport.
What happens if I return the car with damage?
If you bought a damage waiver from the rental company, you typically pay nothing for minor damage like dents or scratches. If you didn't buy coverage, you'll be charged for repairs. The company will send you a bill or charge your credit card. Take photos of any damage when you pick up the car to protect yourself.
Is it cheaper to rent at the airport or downtown Fort Lauderdale?
Downtown locations don't charge the airport facility fee, so the base rate may be lower. However, you'd need to get to downtown, which costs time and money. Compare the total cost including transportation before you decide. For most travelers, renting at the airport is more convenient even if it costs slightly more.
Can I extend my rental if I need the car longer?
Yes, you can usually extend a rental by calling the rental company or modifying your reservation online. Extensions are subject to availability and may cost more than the original rate, especially during peak season. Call as soon as you know you need extra time rather than waiting until your return date.
Do I need an International Driving Permit if I'm visiting from another country?
An International Driving Permit is not required in Florida, but it can be helpful if your home country license is not in English. Bring your valid home country license along with your passport. Some rental companies may ask for an IDP, so check with your company before you travel.