What you need to know about renting a car at Charlotte Airport

Why Rent a Vehicle in Charlotte?

Besides exploring the city, Charlotte has several points of interest in its surroundings for enjoying the outdoors and adventure. Renting a car makes it much easier to move from one place to another with greater comfort and time efficiency.

Save money. Book in advance

Some of the outdoor and adventure activities include:

Anne Springs Close Greenway
Freedom Park
Romare Bearden Park
Hornet’s Nest Park
Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve
Park Road Park
North Mecklenburg Park
Nevin Community Park
Independence Park

Things to Consider

Several passengers, through comments left on platforms like Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, and Yelp, agree that the car rental process at Charlotte Douglas International Airport is generally efficient but mention some inconveniences.

"The pickup and drop-off areas are well-marked," they comment, "although at times the Rental Car Center can be very crowded, leading to longer wait times." Others mention that "the staff is helpful, although some have experienced delays during peak hours."

Additional Comments

Some passengers have pointed out that, although the rental process is generally efficient, certain inconveniences like waiting during peak hours and signage issues can make the experience more difficult.

Other passengers suggest that the Rental Car Center could have been located off-site, as in other major airports, to reduce congestion and improve service efficiency.

Rental Car Center at CLT

The Rental Car Center at Charlotte Douglas International Airport brings together eight car rental companies in one facility, located on the second level of the Hourly Deck, right across from the terminal. Any inquiries related to car rentals should be directed to one of the companies operating at the airport.

🔍 Search for a Car

Below are the pros and cons of some of the major car rental companies at CLT, based on user reviews:

Alamo +1-877-222-9075

Pros: Customers highlight the fantastic service and friendly staff. Many have rented with Alamo multiple times at CLT and have had positive experiences.
Cons: No specific negative reviews were found in the sources consulted.

Avis +1-800-633-3469

Pros: Offers a variety of car models, including luxury and SUV options. The airport location makes pickup and drop-off convenient.
Cons: Some users have reported issues with receiving receipts after returning the vehicle.

Budget +1-800-218-7992

Pros: Offers competitive rates and a variety of vehicles to choose from.
Cons: Like Avis, some customers have mentioned not receiving receipts after returning the car.

Dollar +1-800-800-4000

Pros: Customers appreciate the affordable rates and hassle-free rental process.
Cons: No specific negative reviews were found in the sources consulted.

Enterprise +1-800-261-7331

Pros: Offers a wide selection of vehicles and flexible rental options.
Cons: No specific negative reviews were found in the sources consulted.

Hertz +1-800-654-3131

Pros: Known for its extensive network and variety of available vehicles.
Cons: No specific negative reviews were found in the sources consulted.

National +1-877-222-9058

Pros: Users appreciate the competitive rates and vehicle selection in the Emerald Aisle.
Cons: Some customers have noted that certain vehicles in the Emerald Aisle are older or not in the best condition.

Sixt +1-888-749-8227

Pros: Offers a variety of vehicles, including luxury options, and has a convenient airport location.
Cons: Some users have reported mixed experiences, with an overall rating of 7/10.

Vehicle Pickup

To reach the Rental Car Center, exit the terminal on the lower level (Arrivals/Baggage Claim). Cross the car and bus lanes using the pedestrian walkway and covered bridge to enter the second-level lobby. Once inside, head to your rental company's counter, where a representative will assist you in picking up your vehicle.

Vehicle Return

To return your rental car, follow the signs along the airport roadways to the Hourly Deck. Pass the Hourly Deck entrance on your left and then take the next left to access the rental car return area. Follow the signs to your rental company's designated section. Once you've returned your car, use the elevators or escalators on the south side of the Deck to reach the second-level lobby. From there, exit through one of the covered bridges. Cross the car and bus lanes using the pedestrian walkway and enter the terminal on the lower level (Arrivals/Baggage Claim). Inside the terminal, take the elevator or escalator to the upper level (Departures/Ticketing).

Operating Hours

Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National: These companies typically have extended hours, opening early in the morning (around 5:00 a.m.) and closing late at night (around 11:00 p.m. or midnight). However, these hours may vary, especially on weekends and holidays.
Dollar and Sixt: These companies may have shorter hours, opening around 6:00 a.m. and closing around 10:00 p.m.

💡 Tip

For overnight or early morning rentals, it is recommended to check directly with the car rental company to confirm their operating hours at CLT. Additionally, if you arrive late or leave early, some companies offer after-hours pickup or drop-off options, where you can leave the keys in a designated drop box.

If you need specific hours or after-hours service, it's best to contact the car rental company directly using the contact numbers mentioned above.