
Denver International Airport (DEN) has two types of car rentals: on-airport companies located at the Jeppesen Terminal and off-airport companies located at the DEN Car Rental Center. The on-airport options are typically premium brands, while the standard, high-volume companies operate from the consolidated facility, which is accessible via a complimentary shuttle bus.
The key is knowing where your chosen company is located. If you rent from Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, or National, you will take a shuttle from the terminal. The shuttle pick-up is on Level 5 of the terminal, and the ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Companies like Alamo, Dollar, Fox, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty are also part of this center.
For a quick comparison of the major rental car companies available at DEN, here is a summary of their locations and contact information:
| Rental Company | Location Type | Counter Location | Contact Number (Approx.) | Shuttle Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avis | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-5500 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Budget | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-3300 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Enterprise | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-7304 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Hertz | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-3800 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| National | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-3200 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Alamo | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-2897 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Dollar | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-2233 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Thrifty | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-2233 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Sixt | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (888) 749-8227 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Fox | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (303) 342-3555 | Yes, from Level 5 |
| Payless | Off-Airport | Car Rental Center | (800) 729-5377 | Yes, from Level 5 |
My advice is to book in advance for the best rates and vehicle selection. When you land, follow the "Rental Car Shuttles" signs to the island on Level 5. The shuttles run frequently, but during peak travel times, there might be a short wait. Always confirm the exact shuttle pick-up point with your rental company after booking.

Just flew in last week. All the big names like Hertz and Enterprise are in a separate building. You grab a shuttle from outside baggage claim on Level 5. The signs are super clear. The shuttle ride is maybe ten minutes. It’s pretty efficient, but give yourself a little extra time if you're in a hurry. Booking ahead is a must to avoid long lines.

As a planner, I focus on logistics. Denver Airport centralizes most rental companies in one facility. This is efficient, but the shuttle transfer is a crucial step. I always note the specific shuttle company (like "Avis/Budget" or "Hertz/Enterprise/National") for the correct bus. The process is well-organized, but during holidays, shuttle queues can form. Factor in an extra 30 minutes from landing to driving away.

If you're watching your budget, the off-airport companies at the Car Rental Center are your best bet. Brands like Dollar, Thrifty, and Fox often have lower daily rates. The shuttle is free, so the only cost is a bit of your time. I always compare prices online a week before my trip—prices can fluctuate. Don't forget to check for any hidden airport concession fees before you confirm the booking.

Having picked up folks from DEN countless times, here's the local tip. The shuttle pickup is on the east side of Level 5. After you get your bags, head out the doors and look for the pillars with the rental company logos. The shuttles for the big companies run like clockwork. If you're traveling light and want to avoid the shuttle, consider using a ride-share service to an off-site rental location for potentially even cheaper rates.


