Why rent a car at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport
Ready to hit the road straight from MSP Airport? Use the search form above to find real-time car rental deals at Minneapolis–St. Paul International. Simply enter your travel dates and choose “Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport (MSP)” as your pick-up location. In seconds, you’ll see offers from all the major car rental companies at MSP (and even some off-airport options if they have better deals). Our system lets you filter by vehicle type, passenger capacity, and price, so whether you need a compact car for zipping around the city, a full-size SUV for a family vacation, or a 12-passenger van for a group trip, we’ve got options ready.
Welcome to Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport, the busiest airport in the Upper Midwest and your gateway to Minnesota’s Twin Cities and beyond. Renting a car at MSP Airport gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule the moment you land, from downtown Minneapolis’s sports and theaters to scenic drives along Minnesota’s lakes and forests. This page is your complete guide to securing an affordable MSP airport car rental with ease. We’ve combined AirportVanRental’s best deals with local tips on navigating the airport rental process, so you can rent a car at MSP confidently, whether you’re a local flying back home or an international visitor arriving for the first time.
Pro Tip: MSP Airport is just minutes from major destinations, Mall of America is a 5-minute drive, and both downtowns are 15–20 minutes away. The Metro Transit light rail can take you to the city, but if you plan to explore beyond the direct train line (or simply prefer door-to-door convenience), a rental car is the way to go. Avoid waiting for shuttles or coordinating multiple transfers, grab your keys and go!
No Pre-Payment Needed: Reserve your car now, pay at pick-up. Most rentals require no upfront payment, giving you flexibility if your flight plans change.
Free Cancellation: Enjoy free cancellation on most bookings up to 48 hours before pickup. Lock in a great rate early without worry, if your flight or plans shift, you won’t be stuck with fees.
Instant Confirmation: Our booking process takes just a few clicks. Once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, confirm your reservation and you’re all set. You’ll get a confirmation email with all the details (including which rental company and pick-up instructions at MSP).
Transparent Pricing: The rate you see includes all mandatory taxes and airport fees. We itemize everything so there are no surprises at the counter. (MSP rentals do include some extra surcharges like facility fees and concession fees, more on that below, but our quotes show them upfront).
Trusted Rental Partners: We work with reputable national brands (and quality local agencies) to bring you the best rates at MSP. Our partnerships and volume discounts mean you often get exclusive prices here that you wouldn’t get by walking up at the airport counter.
Quick Pick-Up: After booking, consider providing your flight number if prompted. This helps the rental agency track your arrival in case of delays. At MSP, rental car counters are conveniently located on-airport (no lengthy off-site shuttles required), but knowing your flight info helps them be ready for you. With your reservation in hand, you can typically be on the road within 20–30 minutes of landing, no long waits.
Why Rent a Car at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport?
Renting a car directly at MSP Airport comes with a ton of advantages for both domestic and international travelers. Here’s why savvy travelers choose to grab the keys at MSP rather than relying on taxis, shuttles or public transit from the airport:
Ultimate Flexibility for Exploring: MSP isn’t just the gateway to Minneapolis and St. Paul, it’s the jumping-off point for all of Minnesota (and the Upper Midwest). With a car, you can go anywhere from the moment you land. Today you could be touching down from a long flight, and tomorrow you could be hiking in a state park or visiting a small-town brewery. Public transport from the airport can get you to the downtowns, but it won’t easily reach lake cabins, Boundary Waters outfitters, or even many outer suburbs. A rental car lets you create your own itinerary, whether that’s a quick drive to your hotel or a multi-state road trip.
Skip the Hassle of Shuttles & Rideshares: After a flight, the last thing you may want is to navigate bus schedules or pay surge pricing for a long rideshare ride. Picking up a car at MSP means door-to-door convenience, hop off the plane, grab your bags, and you’re in your car. No dragging luggage onto the light rail or waiting in the cold for a pickup. For families with kids or travelers with lots of luggage, this is a game-changer. You control when you leave and where you go, immediately. It’s also often cheaper for two or more people to rent a car than to pay for multiple shuttle or rideshare fares, especially if you’ll be doing multiple trips.
Save Time on Business Trips: If you’re flying in for a quick business trip to the Twin Cities, a rental car can be a huge time-saver. Rather than aligning with hotel shuttles or figuring out which transit line gets you near that meeting in Eden Prairie (hint: none directly), you can drive straight to the office park or conference center. The airport is right by major highways I-494 and MN-5, so you can be on the road to downtown or any suburb within minutes. With a car, a 30-minute drive might replace a 1.5-hour series of train/bus connections. When time is money, renting is often the smartest choice.
Freedom for Early or Late Arrivals: Flights don’t always arrive 9-to-5. If you land at midnight or have a 6 AM departure, having your own car ensures 24/7 mobility. While MSP does have 24-hour taxi service and some late-night transit, nothing beats knowing your car is ready no matter when you step off the plane. Major rental companies at MSP have extended hours (some counters are open 24 hours, and others will accommodate late arrivals if you provide flight info). Instead of being stranded or paying for an expensive last-minute ride in the wee hours, you can drive yourself at any time. Early flight in and want to kill time until hotel check-in? With a car, maybe take a detour to Mall of America to pass a couple hours, your luggage can stay safely in the trunk while you shop or grab a bite.
One-Stop Trip Start: Many travelers use the Twin Cities as a starting point for regional adventures, think road trip! By renting at the airport, you can load up and go, without backtracking. We often see folks fly into MSP, rent a car, drive one-way to Mount Rushmore or Chicago or up into Canada, and fly out from there. Starting at the airport simplifies logistics (and we offer one-way rentals if you’re not coming back to MSP). Even if you are staying in the Twin Cities area, beginning at MSP means you might even skip a hotel shuttle and drive directly to that meeting or relative’s house in the suburbs, saving time and extra transfers.
In short, a rental car from MSP Airport gives you the freedom to get the most out of your visit, whether that’s zipping around the Twin Cities’ attractions, attending meetings across town, or embarking on a wider Midwest journey.
Our MSP Airport Car Rental Advantages
When you book your MSP Airport rental through AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car, you’re getting a seamless experience backed by our expertise. Here’s why travelers choose us for MSP rentals:
On-Airport Convenience: All the major rental companies at MSP are based on-site, and we clearly indicate which terminal each is at (Terminal 1 Lindbergh or Terminal 2 Humphrey). We’ll guide you through how to reach the rental center (don’t worry, it’s easy, see “Navigating MSP’s Rental Car Center” below). By booking with us, you’ll know exactly where to go upon landing, and you won’t waste time with off-site shuttles unless you chose an off-airport deal for cost savings (in which case, we’ll provide shuttle instructions). Our goal is to get you in your car and on the road quickly.
Best Price at MSP: Airport rentals can sometimes be pricier due to fees, but we work hard to offset that by finding you great base rates. We aggregate prices from all the companies at MSP, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and more, so you can instantly compare in one view. Often, we have exclusive discounts or coupon codes integrated, meaning the rate you see through AirportVanRental could beat what you’d get walking up or even on the company’s own site. Plus, we highlight any promotions (like free upgrade offers or waiving young driver fees) that our MSP partners provide. Getting the best deal at the airport is easier with everything in one place.
No Hidden Fees, Full Disclosure: Renting at an airport usually involves some extra surcharges (airport facility fees, concession recovery fees, etc.). We display all of these in your quote, so you’re not caught off guard. For instance, MSP has a transportation facility charge and a rental tax, we include those. The price we quote is the full price you’ll pay (excluding any add-ons you choose at the counter). We want you to step up to the rental desk with confidence that you know your total cost. And if you have any questions about what a fee is, our support team can explain it. Transparency is a core part of our service.
Wide Vehicle Selection at MSP: Because MSP is a large airport, the selection of vehicles is generally excellent, and with us, you get access to all of them. Need an economical compact for a quick trip? Plenty available. A roomy SUV or minivan for the family vacation? No problem, these are in high supply at MSP due to many families visiting the Mall of America and beyond. Even specialty vehicles like luxury cars or pickups can be found. By booking through AVR, you see inventory across multiple brands, if one company is sold out of minivans, another might have one, and we’ll show you. Essentially, you have the entire airport fleet at your fingertips through one search.
Fast Support & Easy Changes: Airport travel can be unpredictable, flights get delayed, plans change. If you need to adjust your reservation (pick-up time, car type, etc.), our customer service is just a call or click away. We’re familiar with MSP’s rental operations and can help coordinate with the rental company if, say, you arrive after the counter has technically closed (often they’ll wait if they know your flight was late). If you have a problem at pick-up (on the rare occasion a car type isn’t available immediately, for example), we can step in and help sort it out. Booking with AVR means you have an ally, you’re not just a number at a counter. We succeed when your trip starts smoothly.
Insider Airport Tips: We don’t just process your booking, we also provide helpful info to make your airport car rental experience better. In your confirmation, we’ll tell you which terminal to go to for your specific rental brand (important at MSP, since Terminal 1 and 2 have separate rental areas). We’ll remind you about Minnesota’s basic driving laws if you’re inbound from abroad. Need a child seat or GPS? You’ll see options during booking. Essentially, we aim to have you land at MSP feeling prepared. And keep scrolling on this page, below we’ve detailed exactly how to pick up and drop off your car at MSP, plus some driving tips for leaving the airport.
Navigating MSP Airport’s Car Rental Facilities
Picking up your rental at Minneapolis–St. Paul International is straightforward, as long as you know where to go. MSP has two terminals (Terminal 1 Lindbergh and Terminal 2 Humphrey), and each has its own rental car center on-site. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect:
After You Land: Once you deplane and collect any checked luggage, follow the signs for “Ground Transportation / Rental Cars.” If you’re at Terminal 1 (Lindbergh), you’ll take an underground tram toward the Silver Ramp (that’s where the rental car center is). Signs will say “Rental Car” and direct you to the tram/elevator. It’s a quick ride and a short walk to reach the rental counters, all without leaving the building. If you arrive at Terminal 2 (Humphrey), the rental counters are in the Ground Transportation Center on Level 1 of the Purple Ramp directly across from the terminal. Essentially, at Terminal 2 you just walk across the skybridge into the parking ramp and take an elevator down one level. It’s all very close and well-marked.
Finding Your Rental Counter: MSP’s rental car areas host all the major brands. At Terminal 1, you’ll find a row of counters on the ground level of the ramp. Terminal 2 similarly has a rental car area on the ground floor. Look for your company’s sign (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, etc.). When you book with AVR, your confirmation will indicate which company is providing the car (we aggregate deals but the rental will be with a specific brand). Join the queue (if any). The airport is busy, but lines usually move efficiently. Having a reservation (especially through AVR) often lets you use an express line if the company has one. Have your driver’s license and credit card ready, and for international travelers, your passport and IDP if applicable.
Paperwork & Keys: The agent will process your rental agreement. They might offer you optional insurance, upgrades, or extras. These are up to you, if you’re already satisfied with what you booked (and perhaps your personal insurance or credit card covers you), you can politely decline additional options. They’ll then ask you to initial/sign, and provide a copy of the contract. They’ll direct you to your car, giving you a stall number or section. At MSP Terminal 1, cars are typically parked in the connected ramp by level (each company has designated parking rows). Terminal 2 is similar but smaller. The agent will point the way, but there are plenty of signs in the garage indicating where each company’s cars are.
Vehicle Inspection: When you reach your rental car, take a moment to do a quick walk-around. Note any existing scratches or dents. Most rentals at MSP are fairly new and in great shape, but it’s good practice to be aware. If you see any notable damage not listed on your rental agreement, use your phone to take photos and mention it at the exit booth or back at the counter before leaving, just so it’s documented. Also check that the fuel level matches what’s in your contract (usually it will be full). Adjust your seat, mirrors, familiarize yourself with lights and wipers (especially if it’s winter or raining), and set up your GPS or phone before driving off.
Exiting MSP by Car: Both Terminal rental facilities have an exit that leads directly onto the airport road system. At the exit booth, you’ll typically show your driver’s license and the rental contract to a booth attendant, who may quickly scan the car or paperwork. Then the gate opens and off you go. Follow signs for “Airport Exit”. From Terminal 1, you’ll end up on MN-5 which connects to I-494 and MN-77/Cedar Avenue. From Terminal 2, you’ll also merge onto MN-5 or 494. It’s well-signed: you’ll see directions for Minneapolis via MN-5 west or St. Paul via MN-5 east and other highways. If you’re headed to Mall of America, take MN-5 east to MN-77 south, it’s just one exit away. For downtown Minneapolis, MN-5 west merges into I-35W north. For St. Paul, MN-5 east merges into I-494 east which connects to I-35E north. Don’t worry too much, a GPS will sort it out, and the airport’s location makes it hard to get truly lost (worst case, you circle back around).
Rental Car Return at MSP: When it’s time to fly out, returning your car is easy as well. Follow signs on the highways for MSP Airport. As you approach, look for signs for Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 depending on your airline (or the terminal you picked up from). The rental car return for Terminal 1 is in the Silver Ramp, you’ll see signs like “Rental Car Return, Terminal 1” guiding you into the correct lane of the ramp. Drive into the return area, where an attendant will greet you (or you’ll simply park in the marked return spot). They’ll check the fuel and mileage, quickly inspect the car, and print or email you a receipt. If you’re returning at Terminal 2, likewise follow “Rental Car Return, Terminal 2 (Purple Ramp)” signs. The process is the same, just a different location. Important: You can return a car to Terminal 1 or 2 regardless of which one you picked up from, since all on-airport companies have counters at both, but to avoid confusion or extra charges, it’s best to return to the terminal noted in your contract (unless you get permission to do otherwise). The nice part: If you need to get to the other terminal after dropping off (say you return at T1 but your flight is from T2), MSP provides a free light rail shuttle between terminals that runs every 10-15 minutes, or there are inter-terminal shuttle buses, so you can still easily transfer.
Off-Airport Rentals: A few smaller or discount agencies serve MSP via shuttle (e.g., Ace Rent-A-Car). If you booked one of these to save money, your confirmation will have instructions. Typically, you call for a shuttle or go to a designated pick-up spot (Ground Transport area) and look for their shuttle. The ride is short (5-10 minutes off-site). We generally recommend on-airport rentals for sheer ease, but off-site can be fine if you’re comfortable adding a bit of time.
In summary, MSP’s rental car experience is modern and traveler-friendly. Everything is clearly marked and designed to get you on your way with minimal fuss. And with AirportVanRental’s guidance, you’ll navigate it like a seasoned pro!
Driving Out of MSP Airport: Directions & Tips
Once you’ve got your car, you’re essentially in Bloomington, smack between Minneapolis and St. Paul, with major highways at your disposal:
To Minneapolis Downtown: (~12 miles, 20 minutes) Take MN-5 west from the airport, which feeds into Highway 55 west and then merges onto MN-62 west briefly before you exit north onto I-35W North. Stay on 35W north straight into downtown Minneapolis. You’ll see exits for downtown (5th Ave, 11th St, etc.). This sounds complex but it’s basically one fluid path from the airport, just follow signs for 35W North / Minneapolis. Traffic can be heavy at peak times, but off-peak it’s a quick drive.
To St. Paul Downtown: (~8 miles, 15 minutes) From Terminal 1, take MN-5 east which turns into MSP Airport/State Hwy 5 and merges onto I-494 east. Almost immediately, take I-35E North toward St. Paul. 35E brings you right into downtown (exits for 7th St, 11th St will get you into the city center). From Terminal 2, you can also take 494 east to 35E north, same route. Pretty straightforward.
To Mall of America/Bloomington: (~3 miles, 5-10 minutes) Exiting the airport, get on MN-5 east (toward Bloomington/St. Paul), then take the exit for MN-77/Cedar Ave South toward Bloomington. The very next exit is for Killebrew Dr / Mall of America. MOA is super close, you’ll actually see the mall and its big parking ramps as you leave the airport. Hard to miss!
To Other Major Highways: MSP is just south of the intersection of I-494 (east-west beltway) and MN-77/I-35E (north-south). If you need to go to the suburbs or greater Minnesota, you’ll likely hop on 494 (which connects to I-94/I-694 loop) or go south to I-35 (split into 35W west of MSP and 35E east of MSP, which join outside the metro to head south toward Iowa). To head north out of town (say to Duluth), you’d take 35W through Minneapolis then I-35 all the way up. To head south (to Iowa), 35E or 35W join up and continue as I-35. To head east (to Wisconsin/Chicago), take I-494 east to I-94 east. To head west (to South Dakota), take I-494 west to I-94 west. It’s basically a hub, you can get on any major artery within 10 minutes of leaving the rental lot.
Fueling Up: If you need to refuel before returning the car, there are gas stations very close to the airport. Notably, there’s a 24-hour Holiday Station at 34th Ave S and American Blvd (just north of the airport, near MOA). There’s also a SuperAmerica (Speedway) on Post Road near Terminal 2. Prices near the airport might be a tad higher than further out, but for convenience it’s fine. We suggest filling the tank a few miles out to ensure you’re full when returning and avoid the steep refueling rates rental companies charge if you return less than full.
Toll Roads: As mentioned, no tolls in Minnesota (yay!). If you drive into Chicago or eastward, you’ll encounter tolls, but around MSP you’re free to roam without fees.
Traffic Alerts: Check the radio or your maps app for any incidents. MSP’s vicinity can get construction (the Hwy 5 bridge over the Minnesota River, for example, undergoes maintenance sometimes). Typically, any construction is well-signed and alternate routes are provided. With a car’s flexibility, even if one route is slow, you can often detour (local highways like Hwy 77, Hwy 62, Hwy 55 all provide alternate paths around the south metro).
Getting Used to the Car: Before leaving MSP, as you’re in the parking ramp, make sure you’ve adjusted to the controls of your rental (lights on? mirrors set? GPS connected?). The last thing you want is to figure out the wipers in the middle of a downpour on I-494. Take a minute while parked to get comfy. Also note: Minnesota requires headlights to be on when it’s precipitating or at dusk/dawn, many rentals have auto-headlights, just ensure they’re on “Auto” mode.
By following these guidelines, you’ll find that driving out of MSP and into your Minnesota journey is a smooth ride. From the airport’s front door to the open road is a short trip, then your adventure truly begins!
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your terminal, but it’s easy! At Terminal 1 (Lindbergh), follow signs for “Rental Car” or “Ground Transportation.” You’ll take an escalator or elevator down to an underground tram that brings you to the Silver Ramp (rental car center). The tram ride is brief (couple minutes). When you exit, you’ll see rental counters for all major companies right there on the ground level. At Terminal 2 (Humphrey), it’s even quicker, from baggage claim, just walk across the skybridge to the Purple Ramp, and you’ll see the rental car counters on the ground floor of the parking ramp. In both cases, signage is plentiful. If in doubt, ask an airport staffer, MSP folks are friendly and will point you in the right direction.
Most major rental car counters at MSP Terminal 1 are open extended hours, many 24 hours or close to it. For example, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise typically staff counters from early morning (5am) past midnight, and if they know you’re arriving on a late flight, they often stay open or make arrangements. Terminal 2 counters might close a bit earlier (since Terminal 2 has fewer late flights), but if you have a reservation, they will ensure you can get your car, sometimes by directing you to Terminal 1 if Terminal 2 counter is closed, via the free light rail between terminals. Pro tip: Include your flight number with your reservation. Rental companies monitor flight arrivals; if your flight is delayed until 1 AM, for instance, they usually will hold the reservation and someone will either be there or they’ll arrange for you to go to Terminal 1’s 24-hour counter. If you’re really concerned, you can call the local MSP rental office on the day of arrival to confirm late pickup plans. But rest assured, MSP handles lots of late-night travelers, and getting your car, even at 2 AM, is typically not a problem.
No shuttle needed for the on-airport rentals at MSP. Both terminals have integrated rental car facilities reachable via indoor walkways/trams. This is super convenient compared to some airports. The only time you’d need a shuttle is if you booked with an off-airport rental company (a few smaller ones operate nearby with shuttles). In that case, they’ll pick you up at the Ground Transportation Center (look for the shuttle pickup area and perhaps call them to dispatch). But for all the major brands (and any booking we’d typically show you by default), it’s an on-site pick-up with no shuttle hassle. So, step off the plane and you’re practically there!
Not really in terms of process, both terminals’ rental facilities are run by the same companies and your reservation will be honored at either if it’s the same brand. The main difference is location convenience. If you arrive/depart from Terminal 1, you’d ideally pick up and drop at Terminal 1. Likewise for Terminal 2. If, say, you arrive at Terminal 2 but the company you booked closes early there, they might have you pick up at Terminal 1 (they’ll instruct you; the terminals are connected by light rail or a free shuttle bus). But generally, you can specify your terminal when booking (our system usually asks which terminal or at least which airline, to clue in the rental company). In terms of fleet, Terminal 1 is larger so sometimes has more selection, e.g., if you really want to try for an upgrade or a specific model, Terminal 1 might have a bigger lot. But you’re free to rent from either. All on-airport rentals allow you to return to either terminal as well; just let them know if you plan to drop at a different terminal than pickup (but within MSP it’s usually fine without notification). So it’s more about convenience, pick the terminal you fly from to minimize transferring. Either way, rates are the same, service is the same friendly Minnesota style.
On top of the base rate, MSP Airport rentals will include some standard surcharges (which we always show in your quote). These typically include: an Airport Concession Fee (around 11%), a Motor Vehicle Rental Tax (9.2% imposed by Minnesota), a Rental Facility Charge (currently about $5.90 per day for using the airport’s rental car facility), and state/county sales tax (~8% at the airport’s location). All told, taxes and fees usually add roughly 17–20% to the base price, plus that flat ~$5.90/day. We know, fees aren’t fun, but every airport has them (MSP’s are actually on par with most large airports). The important thing is we include them in your online quote so you’re not surprised. For example, if your car is $50/day base, the final might be ~$62/day with all fees. We don’t hide it. Optional fees would be things like GPS rental, car seat rental, additional driver fee (often waived for a spouse or business partner, etc.), young driver fee (if under 25), or fuel if you opt not to refill. These are avoidable or up to your choices. Also note, Minnesota charges a 5% fee on rental car pricings labeled as “Minnesota Revenue Fee” (already in the 17–20% we mentioned). So bottom line: expect the quote we give to be your all-in price except extras you choose at the counter. No hidden surcharges, transparency is our promise.
It’s very close, about 3 miles from Terminal 1, practically next door. By car it’s a 5-10 minute drive. In fact, many travelers with a layover or a few free hours will do exactly that: pick up a rental car and zip to Mall of America (MOA) to shop or enjoy the attractions. Directions: From Terminal 1 rental exit, follow signs to MN-5 East and then quickly to MN-77 South (Bloomington). Take the first exit for Killebrew Drive, and you’re at MOA. There’s abundant free parking at MOA in huge ramps. Terminal 2 is just south of MOA, an even shorter drive via 34th Ave then Killebrew. So yes, if you arrive early in the day and hotel check-in isn’t until afternoon, why not hit MOA? It’s a great way to kill a few hours, plus you can stock up on anything you forgot to pack (there are over 500 stores!). Just keep an eye on time if you have a flight, but as a first stop after renting, MOA is a fun and easy choice literally down the road from MSP.
Yes, many travelers do this. You can pick up at MSP and drop off at a downtown location or even in another state. Within Minnesota, common one-ways might be MSP to Duluth Airport, or MSP to Rochester, etc., often with minimal or no fee. Out of state, you could drop in Chicago, Milwaukee, Kansas City, etc., there will typically be a one-way fee (varies by distance/company). Our booking engine allows you to specify a different return location; it will factor in any fee and show you the total. If you’re staying in the Twin Cities and perhaps want to return downtown rather than back at MSP, that’s usually straightforward (and can save you time if you’re ending your trip in the city proper, then you can take a hotel shuttle or light rail to the airport). Just make sure to arrange it in advance (don’t do it ad hoc, or the company might charge a hefty penalty). One-way rentals are a great way to avoid backtracking, for example, some folks drive from MSP through Minnesota’s lake country and drop the car at Duluth to fly home from there. We support those flexible itineraries! If you don’t see your desired one-way option available online, give us a call, we can often work something out.
We hope this guide has answered your MSP Airport car rental questions and then some. Renting a car at MSP is a breeze when you’re informed and prepared. With your set of wheels secured, Minnesota (and beyond) is yours to explore, enjoy the journey!