Don’t waste time at a counter comparing options, do it now online! Use the search form above to find real-time rental car deals at Indianapolis Airport. Simply enter “Indianapolis International (IND)” as your pickup, choose your dates, and click “Search.” You’ll instantly see offers from all the major car rental companies at IND,, you name it, all in one list. Filter by car type: perhaps you need a compact for downtown driving, or an SUV for a family visit to the children’s museum, or even a minivan to haul a group to the big game. Once you find your perfect ride, booking takes just a couple of minutes. No prepayment required for most reservations, and you’ll enjoy free cancellation on most bookings if your plans change. After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details and pickup instructions. It’s the savvy way to ensure you get the car you want at the best price, all set before you ever take off for Indianapolis. Pro Tip: Indianapolis hosts big events like the Indianapolis 500 (Memorial Day weekend) and conventions that can spike demand for rental cars. If you’re coming during a major event, it’s wise to book as early as possible, vehicles can sell out and prices can rise as inventory shrinks. Our system lets you reserve early at a great rate, and remember, with free cancellation on most bookings, there’s no risk if your plans aren’t 100% firm yet. Lock in that car now; you can always adjust later if needed.
Welcome to Indianapolis International Airport (IND), the main gateway to Indiana’s capital, known as the “Crossroads of America.” If you’re flying into Indy, the best way to experience the city and beyond is with a rental car right from the airport. This page is your all-in-one guide to securing a great car rental at IND. We’ve combined the best deals from multiple providers with local Indy insights so you can grab the keys and start exploring without a hitch. From downtown’s Monument Circle to the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and from business meetings in the city to road trips through the Midwest, having your own wheels gives you the freedom to do it all. Let AirportVanRental help you every step of the way, we’ll get you on the road faster and cheaper, with the friendly service and reliability you expect.
Airport Car Rental Made Easy: Indianapolis International consistently ranks as one of the top U.S. airports for customer satisfaction, and that extends to the car rental experience. The airport’s Ground Transportation Center is built for convenience: all rental cars are on-site and just a short walk from the terminal. No waiting in the rain or cold for a shuttle bus here! Below, we’ll show you how to find your rental, why renting at IND is a smart move, and how to navigate Indy once you’re behind the wheel.
Grabbing a rental at IND airport sets you up for a smooth visit to Indy and the Midwest beyond. Here’s why renting on-site at Indianapolis International is the way to go:
In summary, renting at Indianapolis Airport gives you maximum control, comfort, and capability during your visit. It’s like having a personal Indy experience on your terms, no waiting, no restrictions, just get in and go!
Getting Your Rental Car at IND, Step by Step
Indianapolis International Airport was designed with an integrated Ground Transportation Center, making the rental process user-friendly. Here’s how it works:
After Landing: Once you exit your gate, follow signs for Ground Transportation/Rental Cars. The airport has one main terminal (the Col. H. Weir Cook terminal), so all passengers funnel through the same central exit area after baggage claim/security.
Walk to the Ground Transportation Center: The rental car counters and pickup garage are connected to the terminal via a covered pedestrian walkway. It’s about a 5-minute walk from the main terminal area. Look for signs or ask an airport guide, they’ll direct you to the Ground Transportation Center (GTC) which is on the first floor of the parking garage. Moving walkways/escalators will help with any long stretches, but honestly, it’s pretty close.
Rental Car Lobby: Inside the Ground Transportation Center, you’ll find a spacious lobby with counters for all the rental agencies: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo, National, Thrifty, Dollar, etc. Because you booked with AirportVanRental, you’ll already have a reservation with one of these providers, head to that counter. (There are electronic signs listing company names overhead.) If there’s a line, it usually moves quickly; IND is efficient and often has extra staff during peak times (lots of business travelers Monday mornings, for example).
Check-In Details: Provide your name and reservation info at the counter. They’ll confirm your vehicle class and dates. Have your driver’s license and credit card ready. The agent might ask if you want any upgrades or add-ons (GPS, child seat, toll pass, etc.), decide based on your needs (remember, Indiana doesn’t have many toll roads except if you drive into Illinois or Ohio). If you’re happy with the car you reserved, you can usually decline upgrades; if the lot has plenty of cars, sometimes they might offer a nice upgrade at a discount, your call! You’ll initial and sign the rental agreement. In Indiana, they’ll also verify that you know the basic rules (like agreeing not to smoke in the car, etc., as most rentals are non-smoking). This process typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Locating Your Car: After paperwork, you’ll be directed to the pickup area just outside the lobby. The Ground Transportation Center’s design shines here, you’re already in the parking garage where the cars are kept. Each company has a designated section of the garage by row/number. For example, your contract might say “Section C, Stall 45” for Hertz, or they may have an attendant escort you to the car. Signs like “Alamo, Cars 1-50” make it easy. Double-check the car make/model and license plate with your contract to be sure you have the right one. Most rentals at IND are fairly new (usually under 25k miles), clean, and fueled up. Do a quick inspection, note any small scratches or dents on the form or take photos (the garage is well-lit). If anything major concerns you, notify the lot attendant before driving off. Don’t forget to adjust your seat, mirrors, and familiarize yourself with controls (lights, wipers) before leaving.
Exiting the Garage: Follow the signs within the garage for Exit. You will go through a short tollgate-like exit where sometimes an attendant will verify your paperwork or there’s an automatic gate. Usually, because you handled everything at the counter, you can just drive out. From the parking structure, you’ll take the airport exit road which feeds into the I-70 highway within about a mile. There are clear signs for Downtown Indianapolis (I-70 East) or I-70 West if you’re heading elsewhere (like toward St. Louis). If you need I-465 (the beltway) or I-65/I-69, you’ll connect via I-70 or other nearby interstates. Basically, IND has excellent highway access, you’re on a major route in no time.
Returning the Car: When your trip is over, head back to IND and follow signs for Rental Car Return (often on the same approach as “Parking Garage”). You’ll enter the same Ground Transportation Center garage area, where there are clearly marked lanes for each rental company’s returns. Park in the returns lane or as directed by staff. An attendant will check the fuel and condition quickly. If everything’s good, you’ll be free to go. Dropping off usually takes 5 minutes or less. From there, walk straight into the terminal (the distance from car drop-off to airline check-in is delightfully short, another reason IND is loved by travelers). If it’s an off-hour, you may simply park and leave keys in a drop box, but generally during normal hours staff are present to finalize your return on the spot.
That’s it! Compared to many airports, IND’s rental car process is smooth and fast. The key is that integrated facility, you’re never exposed to weather or waiting for transportation. Many visitors remark that Indianapolis’s rental car center is one of the most convenient they’ve seen. We’re confident you’ll feel the same, especially armed with your advance reservation and knowledge from this guide.
Our Indianapolis Airport Car Rental Advantages
Booking your IND car with AirportVanRental isn’t just about convenience, it’s about getting more for your money and travel experience. Here’s how we add value when you rent at Indianapolis Airport:
Big Savings, No Sweat: We aggregate rates from every rental provider at IND, so you’ll always see the lowest available price for your chosen car type. Indianapolis is a competitive rental market (lots of business travelers and conference-goers), which means companies often run specials. Instead of you hunting those down, we do it for you. Our Best Rate Guarantee means if there’s a bargain, it’ll show up in your search results. And if you ever spot a lower rate elsewhere for the same booking, let us know, we’ll match it. We want you to drive away knowing you got the best deal in town.
Wide Range of Vehicles (Including Vans & Specialty): AirportVanRental is renowned for van rentals, so at IND you’ll find plenty of options for 7-passenger minivans, 8-passenger SUVs, and even 12 or 15-passenger transit vans through our platform, vehicles some sites don’t show you. Coming with a big group to the Indy 500 or a Colts game? Keep everyone together (and split the cost!). Of course, we also have economy cars, sedans, luxury vehicles, and more. Whether you need a fuel-efficient compact for a solo trip or a premium SUV to impress on a business trip, you’ll see it all in one place. And because it’s Indianapolis, home of the Indy 500, why not consider something fun, maybe a sporty coupe, we sometimes have those too! We ensure you’re not limited in choice.
Straightforward Pricing, No Indy Surprises: Ever heard of “Concession Recovery Fee” or “Facility Charge”? Those are the kind of pesky fees airports often add to rentals. At IND, for example, there’s a concession fee (around 11%) and a facility fee (around $3.50/day) on rentals. The great thing is we bake all mandatory charges right into our quotes. The price you see on AirportVanRental for Indianapolis includes those standard fees and the 7% Indiana sales tax. So you won’t get to the counter and suddenly face a much higher total. We also are transparent about optional things: if the rental company at IND charges, say, $3/day for a toll transponder or has an under-25 fee, we show those details. In short, no hidden fees means exactly that, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying before you commit.
Flexibility with No Pre-Pay: Travel plans can change, and business trips get rescheduled. We’ve got you covered. Most of our Indianapolis Airport bookings require no pre-payment. You reserve your car without a deposit in most cases, your credit card is not charged until you actually pick up the vehicle. This gives you flexibility to cancel or modify as needed (with no fees if done within the allowed window, typically 48 hours prior). Even if you snag a great deal months in advance, you’re not locked in financially. It’s one less thing to worry about. We believe in “reserve now, pay later” for peace of mind.
Speedy Pick-Up: Because you booked ahead with us, a lot of your info is already in the system for the rental company. Many of our partner agencies at IND have express services or kiosks. For example, some have “skip the counter” options for members, and joining their programs can be free. We can guide you on this in your confirmation details. The result? You could potentially bypass any lines, go straight to the lot, and drive away in your assigned car. Even if you do stop at the counter, it’s usually just a quick ID check and signature since the details are pre-loaded. Our aim is to minimize your time in the rental lobby, because we know you’re eager to get on with your Indianapolis adventure!
Customer Support & Local Knowledge: When you rent through AirportVanRental, you have an extra layer of support beyond the rental desk. You can always call us if you hit a snag, maybe your flight got canceled and you need to shift pickup by a day, or you’re standing at the counter and have a question about insurance. We’re here to help and can liaise with the rental company on your behalf if needed. Plus, we know the area: need driving directions or a quick tip on the best route to avoid rush-hour traffic on I-465? We’re happy to assist. Think of us as your travel ally, we want your Indy car rental to be smooth from start to finish, and we’ll go the extra mile to make it so.
Top Indianapolis Airport Car Rental Deals
Indianapolis sees a mix of business and leisure travelers, which means a variety of vehicles are popular. Here are some current hot deals at IND to give you a taste:
(Pricing note: “From” prices are base rates and exclude the roughly 18% in combined tax/fees applicable at IND. Our online quotes will show the full price with those included. Deals are subject to change with demand, for instance, prices can rise during big events like the Indy 500 in late May or Gen Con in August due to higher demand. To lock in low rates, book early. And consider weekend vs weekday needs: often, leisure cars (economy, minivans) are cheaper on weekends, whereas business-oriented cars might drop in price on weekends. Use our filters to find the best deal for your specific dates.)
Driving in Indianapolis: Tips for a Smooth Ride
Indianapolis is known for its love of automobiles (after all, it’s home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway!). Driving here is generally pleasant and straightforward, but here are some tips to help you navigate like a local:
City Layout & Traffic: Indy’s downtown is organized in a hub-and-spoke pattern with Monument Circle at its center. Four diagonal streets radiate from the circle, and there’s a grid of north-south and east-west streets overlaying it. The city’s main beltway is I-465, encircling the city, you’ll likely use it if traveling from the airport to suburbs or around the edges of town. Rush hour traffic in Indianapolis (approx 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM weekdays) can cause slowdowns on I-465, I-65 and I-70 near downtown, and the I-69 corridor on the northeast side. Compared to bigger metros, it’s moderate, but allow extra 15-20 minutes if traveling during peak times. Downtown streets can get busy after events (like Colts or Pacers games), but overall, driving in the city center is manageable with a grid layout and lots of one-way streets to ease flow. Keep an eye out for pedestrians around Monument Circle and Mass Ave, these are active pedestrian areas.
Parking in Indianapolis: Good news, parking is relatively easy and affordable. Downtown has ample garages and surface lots, plus street parking with meters. Meters operate Mon-Sat until 9 PM (free on Sundays) and are typically $1.50/hour. Pay attention to signage; some spots become tow-away lanes during rush hours. You can pay meters via the ParkIndy mobile app or with coins/credit card at kiosks. For longer stays, garages are a better bet: most downtown garages charge $5-10 for evenings or $20-25 per day. Near Lucas Oil Stadium or Gainbridge Fieldhouse (for games/events), expect event rates up to $20. The airport area and suburbs have tons of free parking (malls, restaurants, etc., all offer free lots). If you visit Broad Ripple Village (nightlife area north of downtown), parking can be tight on weekends, use public lots or garage there, as street parking fills quickly. Overall, Indy’s parking situation is much more driver-friendly than many cities, you won’t spend too much time hunting for a spot.
Road Rules & Driving Etiquette: In Indiana, as in all states, we drive on the right side and overtake on the left. Right turn on red is allowed (after a full stop) unless a sign says otherwise. As noted earlier, Indiana law prohibits using a handheld phone while driving, so it’s hands-free only (Bluetooth or speakerphone) if you need to make a call. Of course, texting or emailing while driving is illegal. Speed limits: downtown and residential streets are typically 25-30 mph, main arteries 35-45 mph, and highways 55 mph near downtown increasing to 65-70 mph on interstates outside the I-465 loop. On the I-465 beltway, speed limit is mostly 55-65 mph (recently increased to 65 on much of the south and east sections). State troopers do patrol the interstates, so use the cruise control and keep it near the limit to avoid tickets, especially on I-70 and I-65 where they sometimes monitor. Indianapolis drivers are generally polite, but like anywhere, you’ll encounter a mix. During big events (like race weekend), expect more out-of-towners on the roads, patience is key.
Weather Considerations: Indianapolis experiences all four seasons. Summers are hot and humid (July/Aug often hit 85-90°F). Keep sunglasses in the car, Midwest sun can be strong. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so if rain suddenly pours, just slow down and note that roads can get slick after long dry spells. Spring can bring rain and the occasional severe storm; tornadoes are rare in the city but not unheard of in central Indiana, on the off chance you hear tornado sirens (a steady tone), it means seek shelter (a building interior) until the all-clear. Autumn is gorgeous for drives, fall foliage peaks in mid-late October, and routes like I-65 down to Brown County State Park are stunning. Winters: it does snow in Indy, but typically moderate amounts (the city averages ~25 inches per winter). Snowfall is usually 1-4 inches at a time. The city and INDOT do a good job clearing highways and main streets. If you’re here during a snowfall, give the plows time to work. Bridges and ramps freeze first, caution if temps drop below freezing. If a major snow or ice storm hits (occasionally 6+ inches or ice glazing), it might slow the city down for a day. Keep your rental’s windshield washer fluid filled (blue fluid for de-icing is good), we often provide scrapers in winter rentals too. All-season tires on rentals are typically sufficient. If you’re not used to driving in snow, remember: slow and steady, gentle braking, and leave plenty of space. Many locals actually enjoy winter driving, fewer cars on the road and a calm, quiet city under snow can be beautiful (just watch out for that famous Indianapolis pothole season late winter, freeze/thaw can create some bumps by February, but the city fills them quickly).
Toll Roads: Indiana itself has one main toll road, but it’s up north (the Indiana Toll Road, I-90, runs across the northern edge of the state near South Bend). Nowhere near Indianapolis, so you won’t encounter tolls unless you drive 2-3 hours north. If you do head that way toward Chicago, the rental car can be equipped with an EZPass compatible transponder by request (many companies offer this) or you can pay cash/credit at toll plazas. Around Indy and heading south or east, no toll roads. One exception: some newer sections of I-69 (if heading northeast toward Fort Wayne) might add electronic tolling in the future, but as of 2025, no tolls yet on those. Driving to Louisville or Cincinnati? No tolls on I-65 (except a tolled bridge into downtown Louisville if you choose that route) or I-74. So bottom line: tolls are likely a non-issue for most Indianapolis itineraries. If you plan to go to Chicago or beyond into Ohio via the Turnpike, ask about a transponder or be prepared to pay manually.
Navigation: We recommend using a GPS app or the car’s navigation if equipped, especially to get real-time traffic updates. Apps like Google Maps or Waze are very handy in Indy, alerting you to any accidents on I-465 or construction detours (there is frequent roadwork in summer months). But even without, Indy’s highway system is logically numbered and signed. One tip: locals refer to interstates by number (I-69 to Fishers, I-65 south, etc.) and the beltway as “465”. Downtown, streets are in a grid; numbered streets (10th, 16th, etc.) run east-west and increase as you go north. Meridian Street divides east and west addresses, while Washington Street (US 40) divides north and south addresses. Once you get a feel for that, finding an address is simple. Also, note Monument Circle downtown causes some streets to end or curve around it, so don’t be surprised if your navigation has you loop the circle, it’s actually a nice view driving around Soldiers and Sailors Monument!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll find driving in Indianapolis a comfortable experience. Many visitors comment on how clean and well-marked the roads are, and how relatively stress-free it is compared to bigger cities. Enjoy the ride, you’re in the Racing Capital after all, so a part of Indy’s soul is best felt behind the wheel!
Popular Road Trips from Indianapolis
One of the perks of Indy’s central location is how many great destinations are just a drive away. With your rental car, consider these fun road trips:
These road trips showcase the versatility of having a car at your disposal. From big city lights in Chicago to peaceful forests in Brown County, Indianapolis is a convenient starting point. So fill up the tank, cue up your favorite playlist (maybe some John Mellencamp, an Indiana native, for local flavor), and enjoy the open road. Safe travels and happy exploring!
Quick Reference: Indianapolis (IND) Car Rental Info
Frequently Asked Questions
IND is about 14 miles southwest of downtown Indianapolis. By car, it’s roughly a 15 to 20-minute drive in normal traffic. The best route is typically I-70 East straight from the airport into downtown (there are clear signs as you leave the airport). This will drop you near Lucas Oil Stadium and the downtown core. Without a car, your options are more limited, the IndyGo Route 8 bus runs hourly and takes about 45 minutes to downtown, or you’d need a taxi/rideshare which can be $30+. That’s why renting a car is popular, it’s quick and, if you plan to explore, very cost-effective. Plus, the drive offers a nice view of the Indianapolis skyline as you approach the city!
It’s quite easy. Indianapolis International is a modern airport with good signage. As you get close to the airport on I-70 or the I-465 loop, you’ll see signs for “Indianapolis Airport” (take exit 68 from I-70). Once on the airport expressway (Col. H. Weir Cook Memorial Drive), keep an eye out for “Rental Car Return” signs, they will direct you to stay in a particular lane. Essentially, you’ll be guided into the same parking garage complex where you picked up, via a dedicated rental return ramp. The signs are big and hard to miss. If for some reason you find yourself in the wrong lane, don’t panic, the airport roads loop around. Worst case, you circle back and try again. But generally, follow the Rental Car Return signs and you’ll drive right into the return lanes for your rental company. It’s designed to be traveler-friendly.
Not at all. There are no tolls on any roads leaving IND or anywhere in the Indianapolis metro. The airport sits right off I-70 which is a free interstate. Congestion pricing or fees don’t exist here (that’s more of a thing in cities like NYC or London, not Indy). The only time you’d encounter a toll is if you drive quite far out: e.g., heading into Chicago area or taking certain bridges into Louisville, as mentioned earlier. But within central Indiana and getting to/from the airport, it’s toll-free.
Ah, the Indy 500, “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing”! It’s held Memorial Day weekend and indeed is the city’s largest event. Advice 1: Book your rental car as early as humanly possible. Demand skyrockets that weekend, tens of thousands of visitors come in. Cars can sell out and prices do rise. By reserving early with us, you lock in a rate and vehicle. Advice 2: Expect traffic around race day (Sunday) especially on the west side near Speedway. If you’re driving to the race, go very early in the morning (gates open at dawn) to avoid gridlock, and have a parking pass sorted if possible. Many locals actually rent an RV or camp, but with a rental car you can park in designated lots (for a fee) around the track, just anticipate heavy traffic after the race. Advice 3: Police direct traffic flow heavily on race day; follow their guidance even if your GPS says otherwise. They often make some roads one-way outbound to move the crowd, so patience is key. Advice 4: If you’re not attending the race but are in town that weekend, just avoid the Speedway area on race day and you’ll be fine; the rest of the city remains fairly normal aside from some busier restaurants and hotels. Lastly, it can be hot and a long day, so pack water and sunscreen in the car. Enjoy the experience, there’s nothing like it!
The general rule for all rental companies is that the credit card used for the rental deposit must be in the name of the main renter who is present. So if you’re the one picking up the car and the reservation is under your name, you should present your own credit card. Your spouse’s name isn’t on your driver’s license, so that typically won’t fly. However, you can certainly add your spouse as an additional driver (often free for spouses with some companies) so they can drive too. But the payment method needs to be yours. If you only have a spouse’s card (say it’s a shared account but only their name is printed), it’s better to call us or the rental company in advance to ask, policies vary. Some locations might accept it if you have proof it’s a joint account, but it’s hit or miss. To avoid any hiccups at IND’s counter, try to have a major credit card in your own name. Debit can sometimes work but has extra requirements, as mentioned earlier. It’s all about minimizing any issues so you can get your car smoothly.
Apart from the road trips we listed, if you want something shorter: Yes! Eagle Creek Park on the northwest side (about 20 min from downtown) has some lovely roads through forest and around a reservoir, great for a quick nature escape. Also, Fall Creek Parkway and Meridian Street in Indianapolis: drive north from downtown on Meridian (past mansions and the beautiful Governor’s Residence) then cut over to Fall Creek Pkwy around 56th St. That will take you through leafy neighborhoods and along the creek, especially nice in fall colors or spring bloom. Another idea: Take Indiana SR 135 south from Indy through towns like Trafalgar and into Nashville/Brown County (mentioned as a destination above). That route 135 is a classic Hoosier country drive: gentle hills, farms, and forests (particularly gorgeous in the fall). For something unique, you could also drive portions of the historic National Road (US 40) east of Indy through towns like Greenfield and Knightstown, this was one of America’s first highways and you’ll see quaint old-fashioned main streets. These drives are all within an hour of the city and can be a relaxing way to spend an afternoon if you have some downtime.