What to expect when you rent at Logan

Boston Logan International Airport has rental desks in Terminal A and Terminal E, plus an off-site facility you reach by shuttle. The on-airport desks are faster if you want to pick up when ready after landing — you walk downstairs, show your driver's license and credit card, and drive away in 15 to 30 minutes. Off-site lots usually have lower daily rates because they don't pay airport fees, but you'll spend 10 to 15 minutes on a shuttle bus.

All major rental companies operate at Logan: Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, National, and Alamo. Prices vary by company and by how far ahead you book. Booking online before you arrive almost always costs less than walking up to the counter, sometimes by $20 to $40 per day. You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance — either your own policy or the rental company's coverage.

Key Takeaways

  • On-airport rental desks in Terminals A and E let you pick up within 30 minutes of landing, while off-site shuttles take 10 to 15 minutes but often charge $15 to $30 less per day.
  • Booking online before you arrive costs significantly less than renting at the counter, and you can reserve a specific car type and rate.
  • You must bring a valid driver's license, a credit card in your own name, and either your personal insurance card or proof you're buying the rental company's coverage.
  • Boston Logan charges a facility fee on top of the daily rate — this fee is built into online quotes but worth confirming before you book.
  • Drivers under 25 may face an underage surcharge of $15 to $30 per day, depending on the company.

On-airport versus off-site rental locations

The on-airport desks are in Terminal A (lower level, near baggage claim) and Terminal E (lower level). Both are staffed during all flight hours. You can walk there directly from your gate without leaving the airport, which saves time if you're in a hurry or traveling with luggage. The trade-off is that airport rental companies charge a facility fee — usually $10 to $15 per day — on top of the base rate. This fee appears in your online quote, so check the total before you book.

Off-site facilities are run by the same companies but located in nearby lots in Boston or Revere. You take a free shuttle bus from the airport (shuttles depart from the ground transportation level every 10 to 15 minutes). Off-site rates are often lower because the company avoids the airport facility fee, but you lose the convenience of walking straight to your car. If you're renting for a week or longer, the savings can add up to $100 or more.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your valid driver's license — it must be current and match the name on your credit card. A passport works if your license is expired, but the rental agent will note the expiration date. You'll also need a credit card in your own name; debit cards are rarely accepted as the primary payment method, though some companies will take one with a large hold.

For insurance, you have two paths. If you have your own auto insurance, bring the card or a photo of it — your policy likely covers rental cars, though you should call your insurer before your trip to confirm. If you don't have coverage or prefer the rental company's policy, you can buy it at the counter. Rental insurance costs $15 to $30 per day depending on coverage level and company. Some credit cards include rental car coverage; check your card's benefits before you book.

Booking online versus at the counter

Online booking almost always costs less. When you book on the rental company's website or through a travel site like Kayak or Autoslash, you lock in a rate before you arrive. At the counter, agents can quote you a higher rate, especially during peak travel times. The difference is often $20 to $40 per day. Online booking also lets you choose your car type (compact, sedan, SUV) and add extras like GPS or a second driver before you arrive.

Book at least a few days ahead if you can. Rates rise as your travel date gets closer, and popular car types sell out. If you're booking within 24 hours of your arrival, call the rental company directly — sometimes an agent can find a better rate than the website shows. Always check the total price, including the facility fee, taxes, and any insurance you're adding. The cheapest daily rate means nothing if taxes and fees double the cost.

Age requirements and underage surcharges

You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car at Logan. Drivers aged 21 to 24 typically pay an underage surcharge of $15 to $30 per day, depending on the company and car type. Some companies charge more for drivers under 21 or won't rent to them at all. Check the rental company's age policy when you book — the surcharge should appear in your online quote.

Drivers 25 and older don't pay this surcharge. If you're close to 25, it may be worth waiting a few days if your travel dates are flexible. Some companies offer lower surcharges for members of AAA or military organizations, so mention any memberships when you book.

Parking and returning your car

When you return your rental, follow the signs for "Car Rental Return" from the highway. Each company has its own return lot near the terminals. You'll drive into the lot, park in a designated spot, and hand your keys to an agent. The agent will inspect the car for damage, check the fuel level, and print your final receipt. The whole process takes 5 to 10 minutes. Keep your receipt — it's your proof of return in case a charge appears on your credit card later.

If you rented from an off-site location, return the car to the same lot. You'll take a shuttle back to the airport terminals. Off-site returns are usually faster because the lot is less crowded than the airport facility.

Damage and fuel options

Before you drive away, walk around the car with the agent and point out any existing scratches, dents, or damage. The agent will note these on your contract. Take photos with your phone if you want extra proof. This protects you from being charged for damage you didn't cause.

You'll also choose a fuel option. Most rentals come with a full tank, and you're expected to return it full. If you don't, the company charges you for fuel at a premium rate — usually $5 to $8 per gallon, much higher than a gas station. Some companies offer a "prepaid fuel" option where you pay for a full tank upfront at a lower rate; this works if you know you'll use most of the tank. If you return the car on empty, you'll pay the premium rate, so fill up at a gas station near the airport before you return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car if I don't have a credit card?

Most rental companies require a credit card in your name for the deposit and final charge. A few companies accept debit cards, but they place a large hold (sometimes $500 or more) that can take days to release. Call the rental company before you book to ask about debit card policies.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late returns are charged by the hour or day, depending on the company's policy. A return that's a few hours late may cost an extra half-day or full day rate. Check your rental agreement for the exact policy. If you think you'll be late, call the rental company as soon as you know — sometimes they can extend your reservation without extra charge.

Do I need an international driver's license if I'm visiting from another country?

No. A valid driver's license from your home country is accepted at Boston Logan. Some rental companies recommend an International Driving Permit as a backup, but it's not required. Your home country license must be current and written in English or have an English translation.

Can I add a second driver at the counter instead of online?

Yes, but it's cheaper to add them when you book. Adding a second driver at the counter usually costs $10 to $15 per day. If you add them online, the fee is often waived or lower. Both drivers must present a valid license at pickup.

What if the rental company overcharged me after I returned the car?

Check your credit card statement and your rental agreement. If you see a charge you don't recognize, contact the rental company's customer service with your receipt and photos of the car's condition. Dispute the charge with your credit card company if the rental company won't remove it. Keep all documentation until the charge is resolved.