
The major car rental companies at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are conveniently located at the LAX Car Rental Center, a consolidated facility accessible via a 5-10 minute shuttle ride. The primary companies include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Fox, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty. To get your car, you take a complimentary shuttle bus from the terminal curb to the center. The key is booking in advance for the best rates and to ensure vehicle availability.
Renting a car at LAX is straightforward if you know the process. After you collect your luggage, follow the signs marked "Rental Car Shuttles" to the designated island outside each terminal. The green and white shuttles run 24/7 and stop at all rental companies in the center. Having your confirmation number, driver's license, and a major credit card ready will speed up the process.
Here’s a quick reference for the major on-airport companies:
| Rental Company | Customer Service Phone | Loyalty Program | Known For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alamo | (888) 826-6893 | Alamo Insider | Family-friendly, easy check-in |
| Avis | (800) 352-7900 | Avis Preferred | Wide variety of vehicles |
| Budget | (800) 527-0700 | Budget Fastbreak | Competitive pricing |
| Enterprise | (800) 736-8222 | Enterprise Plus | Extensive rental network |
| Hertz | (800) 654-3131 | Hertz Gold Plus Rewards | Premium and performance cars |
| National | (877) 222-9058 | National Emerald Club | Fast, member-focused service |
| Sixt | (888) 749-8227 | Sixt Rewards | European luxury and sport models |
Consider your needs: if you want to skip the counter, join the free loyalty programs offered by companies like Hertz or Avis. For the best deal, compare prices from all the companies listed, as rates can vary significantly for the same car class. Off-airport rental locations can be cheaper but require a third-party shuttle and more time.

Head to the LAX Car Rental Center. You can't miss the shuttle pick-up—just follow the signs from baggage claim. All the big names are there: Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, etc. My pro tip? Book ahead online. The counters can get chaotic, and you’ll lock in a much better rate. The shuttle ride is free and takes just a few minutes. Easy.

As a frequent business traveler through LAX, my only choice is a company with a reliable loyalty program. I use Hertz Gold. I book on my phone while walking off the plane. By the time the shuttle gets me to the Rental Center, my name is on the board, directing me straight to a pre-assigned car. I scan my license at the kiosk and I'm on the road in under five minutes. That efficiency is worth every penny when you're on a tight schedule.

We just rented a minivan for our family vacation. We went with Alamo because they have a good selection of larger vehicles and their check-in was pretty smooth, even with the kids. The shuttle buses have space for luggage, which was a relief. The main thing is to be prepared for a bit of a line at the counter if you’re arriving during a peak time, like a Friday afternoon. But overall, the system at LAX works well.

Don't forget to check the smaller, sometimes overlooked companies like Sixt or Fox. They often have newer fleet cars or interesting European models at rates that can undercut the big three. The shuttle drops you at the same place, and the counters are usually less crowded. It pays to shop around beyond the most familiar names. Also, their loyalty programs are worth a look for occasional renters seeking perks without heavy commitment.


