Question 1

How late are the rental car counters open at Des Moines Airport? What if my flight is delayed?

Accepted Answer

Rental car counters at DSM Airport typically align with flight schedules. Most major companies (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, etc.) open around 5:30 or 6:00 AM and stay open until the last scheduled flight arrival of the night (often around 11:00 PM or midnight). For example, if the last incoming flight is at 11:30 PM, rental staff usually remain available until all customers from that flight are taken care of, they won’t strand you if you have a reservation. That said, if you are arriving very late (past midnight due to a delay), it’s a good idea to have provided your flight number in the reservation. The rental companies do monitor those and may stay a bit later if they know your plane is coming in. If your flight is severely delayed into the wee hours when the airport itself might close, there’s a chance the counter could close and you’d have to pick up in the morning. However, this is rare at DSM. One tip: call the local rental office if you’re facing a multi-hour delay, sometimes they’ll arrange for an agent to stay or leave keys with airport security. Also, note that some brands (like National/Alamo) may have an after-hours procedure, e.g., you complete paperwork at a sister counter or an agent on-call meets you. The good news: Des Moines is not a 24/7 airport, but it is very customer-friendly. We at AirportVanRental can assist too, if your flight is delayed and you’re worried about pickup, reach out to our support. Often we can coordinate with the rental company on your behalf. In summary, counters are open early until late, roughly matching the airport’s operational hours. If you arrive during normal airport hours, you’ll get your car no problem. If you’re overnight delayed, worst case you might need to taxi to a hotel and return in the morning when counters reopen (we’d ensure your reservation is held). But again, with flight info given, they usually accommodate.

Question 2

Where exactly do I pick up and drop off the rental car at DSM Airport?

Accepted Answer

All rental pickups and returns at Des Moines International Airport happen at the Rental Car Center area on-site. This isn’t a separate building like some large airports, but rather a section of the main terminal’s parking area dedicated to rentals. Here’s the breakdown:
•	Pickup: As mentioned, go to the rental counter in the baggage claim area of the terminal. After paperwork, the agent will direct you outside. You’ll exit the terminal (just a few steps from the counters) and immediately be in the rental car parking lot. The companies have designated lots/stalls typically right outside or in the adjacent short-term parking. It’s a very short walk, no shuttle needed at all. Look for signs for your company (e.g., Avis, Hertz) in the parking area, or a numbered stall as indicated. The layout is small enough that it’s hard to get lost, from plane to car is a few hundred feet.
•	Drop-off: Follow airport signs for “Rental Car Return” when you approach the airport on Fleur Drive or the bypass. These will lead you into the same general area by the terminal. Usually, you’ll turn into the parking structure area labeled for returns. You’ll see lanes or parking spots marked for each rental company’s returns (often with overhead signs or cones). Park in an empty return lane spot for your brand. An attendant may greet you, or you may need to note your mileage/fuel and drop keys in a box or at the counter if it’s after hours. But generally during business hours, an attendant will do a quick inspection and check you in. The return area is essentially the same lot you picked up from, just the other side of it. Once you’ve dropped the car, the terminal entrance is just across the street or a short walk. It’s very convenient, you’re basically back at the airport front door.
•	After-hours Return: If you have a super early flight and need to return at, say, 4 AM when counters might not yet be open, there is a key drop process. Typically, you park in the return lane, lock the car, and place the keys and contract in the drop box at the rental counter inside (or occasionally a drop safe in the return area). Confirm with the agent when you pick up, they’ll instruct you if you have an off-hours return. Since the airport terminal is open early for 5 AM flights, you can access the counters to drop keys even if staff aren’t there yet. They will finalize your return once they open and email you the receipt.
In short, pickup and drop-off are both at the airport terminal, very straightforward and quick. If in doubt when returning, just head toward the main terminal at 5800 Fleur Drive and look for rental car signs; you really can’t miss it. Des Moines Airport authority prides itself on easy car rental access, and from our customers’ feedback, it’s one of the easiest airports for car rentals in the country.

Question 3

Do I need to book in advance for Des Moines Airport, or can I just walk up and rent a car when I land?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend booking in advance for Des Moines Airport (and really any airport) to ensure availability and get the best price. While DSM isn’t as large as, say, O’Hare or LAX, it still sees high demand for rental cars, especially during peak travel times. Here’s why booking ahead is wise:
•	Guaranteed Car: If you walk off your flight with no reservation, you risk that rental counters may have limited or no cars available (this can happen if flights were full, or during special events like the state fair, major sports tournaments, or holidays). By booking ahead, you have a car allocated to you. We have seen situations where last-minute travelers end up paying high “walk-up” rates or not getting a car class they want (e.g., they wanted an SUV but only compact cars left).
•	Better Rates: Advance reservations almost always yield better prices. You can shop around and secure a low rate, whereas walk-up customers pay the rack rate (which could be double what you find online). Even booking just 24-48 hours ahead can save a lot versus a spontaneous rental at the counter. And with AirportVanRental, you don’t pay upfront for most bookings, so there’s little downside to reserving.
•	Quick Pickup: Having a reservation means all your details are in the system, making the pick-up process much faster. Walk-up renters have to go through the whole process and are at the mercy of what’s on the lot. With a booking, it might be as simple as “Here’s my name, here’s my license, credit card” and you’re done.
•	Flexibility: As mentioned, our reservations are typically cancellable. So you’re not locked in if plans change. There’s no benefit to waiting, you don’t save by booking last minute; in fact, you might lose out on vehicle choice or price.
•       Surge Impacts: In recent times, rental car fleets have been tighter. We have had scenarios nationwide where car supply was short, and walk-up renters were turned away or faced $150/day rates for economy cars. Des Moines can experience mini-surges when, say, multiple college sports teams come in, or there’s a big insurance convention. If you happen to coincide with that, advance booking protects you.
That said, if you do end up spontaneously needing a car, by all means stop by the counters, sometimes they will have availability. But often, they might direct you to use the company’s website or phone to make a quick reservation anyway (since many rental companies prefer a booking in the system even if it’s for immediate pick-up).
In short: Book early, relax later. Especially for airport travel, that’s a good mantra. We’d advise reserving as soon as you have your flight dates, you can lock in a rate and vehicle, and then forget about it until you land. We’ll be ready for you.

Question 4

Are there any special driving tips for visitors driving out of DSM Airport for the first time (left turns on red, right on red, etc.)?

Accepted Answer

Welcome to driving in Iowa! The good news is there aren’t too many exotic rules, mostly standard U.S. driving laws apply, but since you asked, here are some tips and reminders particularly useful for those new to the area or from abroad:
•	Right Turn on Red: As in all U.S. states (except a few big city exceptions), Iowa allows right turns at a red traffic light after a complete stop, provided you yield to any traffic/pedestrians and there’s no “No Turn on Red” sign. So when you’re leaving the airport or anywhere in Des Moines, you can generally turn right on red lights once you stop and clear. This can be handy at the big intersection of Fleur & Army Post when leaving DSM, if you’re turning right onto Fleur, for example, you can go at a red after stopping if safe.
•	Left Turn on Red: This is less common, but Iowa does permit left turns on red only from a one-way street onto another one-way street (both moving left). You might encounter this downtown (e.g., turning left from a one-way onto another after stopping). It’s legal, but if you’re not comfortable, you can wait for green. This rule is the same in many states, not frequently used, but good to know it’s allowed if you see locals doing it.
•	4-Way Stop Etiquette: You’ll come across intersections with stop signs in all directions, especially in residential areas. The rule: whoever arrives first, goes first. If two arrive at once, yield to the car on your right. If it’s your turn, proceed, Iowans are pretty good at these, but sometimes everyone waves each other on (“Iowa nice” politeness!). Just make sure you stop fully and take turns.
•	Speed Cameras: Des Moines proper does not use speed cameras, but some suburbs (Altoona on I-80, for example) and other Iowa cities like Cedar Rapids do have automated speed or red-light cameras on highways. On I-235 through Des Moines previously there were cameras, but as of now they are not active. Just be aware if driving in other Iowa cities or small towns, occasionally you might see photo enforcement signs. Best practice: stick to limits and you’re fine.
•	School/Work Zones: If you drive during weekdays, watch for school zones (flashing yellow lights indicating 25 mph near schools at start/end of school day). Also, Iowa law doubles fines in road construction work zones and expects drivers to slow down and change lanes if possible when workers are present. Some work zones around DSM (like I-35/80 improvements) have lower posted limits, respect those for safety and your wallet.
•	Seat Belts & Phones: Iowa requires seat belts for all front seat occupants (and backseat under 18). Police can stop you for not wearing one. Also, as of 2017, texting while driving is illegal (primary offense). And starting July 1, 2023, Iowa implemented a new hands-free law, you cannot hold a phone while driving. Use a mount or Bluetooth for calls. Basically, phone in hand = reason for a ticket, just like many states. This is especially enforced in urban areas and by state troopers on highways.
•	Move Over Law: If you see any emergency vehicle, tow truck, or even a broke-down car with hazards on the roadside, Iowa law says move to the next lane if you can do so safely, or slow down significantly. This is common courtesy and law in most states now.
•	Winter Driving Caution: If you’re visiting in winter and encounter snow/ice, remember to turn on your headlights whenever wipers are in use (Iowa has that law like many states). Also, clear all snow off your car (roof, lights) before driving, not just a peephole on the windshield. Accelerate and brake gently on slick roads, and give extra following distance. The rental cars will have all-season tires, which are fine for moderate snow, but icy conditions require reduced speed and vigilance.
•	Metric vs Imperial: In case you’re from a country using km/h, note all speed limits are in miles per hour (mph). 1 mile ≈ 1.6 km. So 70 mph ~ 113 km/h. The rental car speedometer usually shows both, but the larger numbers are mph. Just a heads up so you don’t mis-read speeds.
•	General Courtesy: Iowa drivers are generally courteous. You’ll often see people signaling lane changes and waving “thanks.” Aggressive driving is not the norm. If you drive the speed limit, you’ll be with the flow mostly (some rural interstates see a few speed demons but not too many). On two-lane highways, slower vehicles (like tractors or Amish buggies in some areas) are something to watch for, pass when safe and legal, giving them room.
Overall, driving out of DSM and around Iowa is straightforward and friendly. If you’re an international visitor, you might find it remarkably calm compared to big cities elsewhere. Just obey the signs, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution (like at an unfamiliar intersection or rule). And remember, our team is happy to clarify any U.S. driving rules for you, don’t hesitate to ask when picking up your car.

Question 5

I’m arriving in winter, do rental cars at DSM come with snow tires or anything special for ice/snow?

Accepted Answer

Rental cars at Des Moines (and generally in the Midwest) are typically equipped with all-season tires, not specific snow tires. All-season tires are the standard because they provide a balanced performance year-round in varied conditions. They are M+S (mud and snow) rated, which means they can handle light to moderate snow conditions decently. However, they are not as grippy as dedicated winter tires on icy roads.
In Iowa and most of the U.S., it’s actually rare for rental agencies to put on full winter tires due to cost, mild stretches of winter, and logistical issues of swapping them seasonally. Exceptions are places with extreme winters (like some rental fleets in Alaska or mountainous ski regions might). In Des Moines, you should assume all-season tires. These will be fine for the majority of winter days, as roads are plowed and salted promptly.
A few notes/tips for winter renters:
•	No Studded Tires/Chains: Iowa law does allow studded tires but only in winter months; however, rentals will not have studded tires. And rental companies do not provide tire chains, nor should you attempt to use them, they’re generally not needed in Iowa (chains are more for mountain passes out west). So you’ll be driving on regular all-season rubber.
•	Front-Wheel Drive vs AWD: Many rental cars are front-wheel drive (FWD), which handles okay in snow. If you are concerned or expect severe conditions, you might consider renting an AWD or 4x4 vehicle (like an SUV or certain crossovers). Not all SUVs are AWD (some are 2WD), so verify. AWD can improve traction on snowy starts and hills. We can help you identify which classes likely have AWD. Keep in mind AWD helps you go better in snow, but doesn’t help you stop faster, that’s still about tires and cautious driving.
•	Windshield Washer Fluid & Scraper: The rental should be filled with winter-grade windshield washer fluid (the kind that doesn’t freeze). If you find it’s not spraying or is frozen, mention it to the company, they’ll top it up. Also, every rental during winter should come with an ice scraper/brush (often in the trunk or back). If it doesn’t have one, ask at the counter and they’ll supply it, you’ll need it for clearing frost or snow off the car.
•	Battery and Engine Prep: Rental companies maintain their fleets, so batteries are usually in good shape (no guarantee, but less likely to find a dead battery). They also use appropriate engine oil that can handle cold temps, so nothing you need to do there. Just let the car warm up a couple minutes before driving off if it’s sub-zero, for your own comfort and so defrosters start working.
•	Plan around storms: If a major snowstorm or ice storm is forecast during your visit, best advice is to avoid driving during the peak of it. Iowa roads get cleared fairly quickly after a storm ends (within hours on interstates, same day on main roads). If you can delay a trip by a few hours to let plows work, do it. If you must drive, go slow, and keep ample distance. All-season tires will do their job at slow speeds; they lose traction if you push too fast.
•	Emergency Kit: In winter, it’s wise to have some basic emergency items in the car: maybe a blanket, flashlight, small shovel. Rentals don’t usually provide these by default, but you could toss a blanket in if you have one, just in case you get stuck and need to stay warm until help arrives. That said, in Iowa, you’re rarely far from assistance or a farmhouse even in rural areas.
•	Winter Fuel Mix: Gas stations in Iowa often sell “winter blend” gas or add ethanol blends that actually can help with cold starts. Just fuel up normally. Diesel vehicles (unlikely you’ll rent one, except maybe a large pickup) have diesel winter additive at pumps to prevent gelling.
Bottom line: drive cautiously in winter. The car will handle typical conditions fine, but on ice, no tire (all-season or even winter tire) can grip well, so slow and steady is the rule. If you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to wait it out or seek alternate transportation for that leg. Also, Iowa DOT’s 511 site shows real-time road conditions with color codes (blue = partly covered, pink = completely covered in snow, etc.), which can help you decide if you should venture out.
To directly answer: No, you won’t have special snow tires, but all-season tires and careful driving are usually sufficient for Des Moines winters. If you anticipate spending a lot of time in very snowy rural areas or during storms, upgrading to an AWD vehicle might be worth it for extra confidence.

Question 6

I have a very early flight departure. Can I return my rental car at DSM before the counters open?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Des Moines Airport’s rental facilities accommodate early drop-offs. If you need to return your car during non-business hours (say 4:30 AM for a 6 AM flight, when maybe the rental counters aren’t staffed yet), you can do an after-hours return. Here’s how it generally works:
•	After-Hours Return Procedure: When you pick up the car, ask the agent about after-hours return instructions. They will usually tell you to park the car in the returns area as usual. Then you will either:
               o	Drop the keys and the rental contract in a secure key drop box. This drop box is often located at the rental counter or at the return lot exit. At DSM, since the counters and lot are adjacent, typically you’d drop keys at the counter’s drop slot (inside the terminal) if no one is there outside.
                o	Some locations have a drop box right by the return parking area. If you see a clearly marked drop, you can use that. Otherwise, a short walk into the terminal to the counter is fine (the terminal is open very early, TSA opens around 4 AM, so you can access baggage claim area).
•	The rental company will then process your return when they open in the morning. They’ll time-stamp it with when you dropped (usually by the time written on the envelope or the next available time). To be safe, you can write the return date & time on the contract or envelope you drop. Also, take photos of the car parked in the return spot showing time (maybe on your phone’s clock), this is just a personal tip for peace of mind, to have proof you returned on time and car condition was fine.
•	Ensure the car is full of gas (if that’s your arrangement) and you’ve removed all your belongings. Once you drop the key, you won’t have access again.
•	If the airport rental parking is gated or requires a code after hours, the agent will give you instructions (often it’s not gated at DSM for returning out, only for entering, etc.).
•	Next business day, you should get an emailed receipt. If not by mid-day, you can call to confirm everything is settled.
The counters at DSM usually open around 5:30-6:00 AM, so if your flight is like 7 AM, sometimes an agent might be there by 5 AM and you can just hand it to them. But if you don’t want to risk waiting, the drop box is the way to go.
Des Moines is a smaller airport so it doesn’t have the huge multi-level return garage where things get lost, it’s quite straightforward. Many travelers do early drops for the first bank of flights. The rental companies are used to it and make it easy.
One more thing: When you initially rent, the agent will take note of your planned return time. If it’s outside hours, they might just note “after hours return” in the system. You’re responsible for the car until they check it in when they open. It’s rare, but if something were to happen to it in that interim (like an incident in the lot), having those photos or notifying them could help. Usually it’s absolutely fine though.
So rest assured, you can return at 4, 5 AM no problem. Just give yourself a few extra minutes to park and drop keys before rushing to your flight check-in. It’s a small airport, but you still need to go through security, etc. Aim to be done with car drop at least 90 minutes before flight if possible for an early morning domestic flight (lines can surprisingly back up at DSM’s security at 5-6 AM since multiple flights leave around 6-7 AM).
Happy travels, even at the crack of dawn!

Car Rental at Des Moines Airport (DSM), Get on the Road in Minutes After Landing

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