Ready to start your Gateway City journey right from the airport? Use the search form above to find real-time car rental deals at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL). Select your travel dates and choose “St. Louis, Lambert Intl (STL)” as your pick-up location. In seconds, you’ll see offers from all the major car rental companies serving STL and more. Our system lets you easily filter by vehicle type, passenger capacity, and price, so whether you need a fuel-efficient compact for zipping around downtown or a roomy van for a group trip, we have options ready.
Why book with AirportVanRental? Because we make it fast, easy, and budget-friendly:
Quick Pick-Up: After you book, you’ll typically have the option to provide your flight number. We recommend doing so, it helps the rental agency track your arrival. At Lambert Airport, rental car counters are off-site, so you’ll board a free shuttle from the terminal to reach your car. Look for clearly marked shuttle pickup zones outside baggage claim at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Each rental company operates its own shuttle (they run frequently, even late at night). With your reservation in hand, you’ll usually be on the road within 20–30 minutes of landing.
Welcome to St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the largest and busiest airport in Missouri and your first stop toward exploring the vibrant St. Louis region. Renting a car at STL Airport gives you the freedom to experience The Gateway City and beyond on your own terms. Whether you’re landing in St. Louis for business downtown or planning a road trip through the Midwest, we’ve got you covered with convenient, affordable options. This page is your complete guide to securing an affordable St. Louis Lambert car rental with ease. We’ve combined AirportVanRental’s best deals with local tips on navigating the STL rental process, so you can rent confidently and hit the road quickly, whether you’re a local needing wheels or flying in from afar.
Pro Tip: St. Louis does have a light-rail (MetroLink) to downtown, but if you plan to visit multiple sites (like Forest Park, the Gateway Arch, or venture into Missouri wine country), a rental car is by far the most convenient option. You’ll save time and enjoy door-to-door comfort, especially when exploring areas beyond the MetroLink route.
Renting a car directly at STL comes with huge advantages for both visitors and locals flying in. Here’s why savvy travelers choose to grab the keys at Lambert instead of relying on cabs or public transit:
Our St. Louis Car Rental Benefits (Why Book with AirportVanRental)
When you book your STL Airport car through AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car, you’re getting a seamless experience from start to finish, with perks you won’t get by walking up to the counter. Here’s what sets us apart for your St. Louis Lambert rental:
St. Louis Lambert Car Rental Deals
We’ve got a ride for every need and budget at STL. Here are some top St. Louis car rental deals to give you an idea of what’s available (rates vary by dates and demand):
(Note: “From” rates exclude taxes/fees; about 15–20% in total taxes and surcharges applies at STL, including Missouri rental tax and airport-specific fees. We show you the final price with all these included during booking. Prices can spike during peak seasons, e.g. summer travel, holiday weeks, or big events like the World Series or a major convention, so it’s wise to book early for those times. Also, consider weekdays vs. weekends: a weekend rental might have special rates. Always search with your exact dates for the most accurate pricing.)
Navigating Lambert’s Rental Car Shuttles (Pick-Up Guide)
Picking up your rental at St. Louis Lambert is straightforward, but a little different from airports with on-site car centers. Here’s what to expect:
After Landing: Once you’ve collected your luggage at baggage claim, follow the signs for “Rental Cars” or “Ground Transportation.” At Terminal 1, exit near Door 17; at Terminal 2, exit Door 12, these are the shuttle pick-up areas. Look for the shelters or signs indicating Rental Car Shuttles. Each major rental company (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, etc.) runs its own shuttle to its off-site lot. Shuttles are usually waiting or come every few minutes, so you typically won’t wait long. They are free and have space for luggage.
On the Shuttle: The ride is short, most rental lots are just 5–7 minutes away on the airport perimeter roads. The shuttles are accessible (if you have mobility needs, drivers can assist with lifts or ramps). Sit back for a moment, you’re almost at your car!
At the Rental Facility: The shuttle will drop you at your rental company’s office or lot. You’ll head to the counter (or kiosk, if directed) to do the paperwork. Have your driver’s license, credit card, and reservation confirmation ready for a smooth transaction. International travelers, have your passport and if your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (translation), while not always required, it’s recommended. Lambert’s rental offices are typically efficient; even if a few customers arrived at once, the wait is usually short.
Car Pick-Up: Once you’ve checked in, you’ll be directed to your vehicle, often they’ll give you a spot number or an attendant will lead you to the car. Do a quick inspection of the car’s exterior for any pre-existing dents or scratches (take photos if anything notable, just to be safe). Adjust your seat and mirrors, connect your phone if you want (most modern rentals have Bluetooth), and you’re ready to roll. Follow the exit signs — you may show your paperwork to a gate guard as you drive out. Then simply follow signs for the highway or destination of your choice. Lambert is right near major interstates (I-70 runs by the airport), so you can be on your way to downtown St. Louis in about 20 minutes (roughly 15 miles).
Returning Your Car: Returning is equally easy. Each rental company will have clear signs on the approach to the airport for “Rental Car Return.” Typically, you’ll return to the same lot where you picked up. Allow a little extra time when heading for your flight, since you’ll need to park, have the car checked in, and hop on a shuttle back to the terminals. The general rule of thumb: plan to arrive at the rental return about 30–45 minutes before you aim to be at the terminal, just in case (it usually takes much less time, but better to be safe). The shuttle will bring you back to Terminal 1 or 2 departures. Pro Tip: There are gas stations near the airport (along Lindbergh Blvd and I-70). To avoid a refueling fee, fill up the tank within 5-10 miles of STL; just save your receipt in case the agent asks if you topped off.
Many travelers comment that while Lambert’s rental setup requires a shuttle, it’s overall hassle-free, shuttles are prompt and the off-site facilities are close by. Just remember: hold onto that rental contract and keys until you’re safely on the shuttle at return, and check you haven’t left any belongings in the car!
Driving in St. Louis: Tips for Navigating the Gateway City
Once you’ve got your rental car and leave Lambert Airport, you’ll quickly find yourself on St. Louis roads. Driving in and around St. Louis is generally easier than in bigger cities like Chicago, but every city has its quirks. With our local insights, you’ll be cruising like a local in no time. Here are essential tips for driving in St. Louis and beyond:
Traffic & Rush Hours: St. Louis is a mid-sized city, so traffic isn’t as notorious as LA or NYC, but you can still expect congestion during peak periods. Weekday rush hours typically run 7:00–9:00 AM inbound and 4:00–6:00 PM outbound. Highways like I-70, I-64/US 40, I-55, and I-44, which all converge near downtown, can slow down during these times. If you land during evening rush, for example, the drive from the airport into downtown via I-70 and I-170 might be stop-and-go in stretches. Use a navigation app (Google Maps, Waze), locals certainly do, to find the quickest route and get real-time traffic alerts. On weekends, traffic is usually lighter, but if there’s a Cardinals baseball game at Busch Stadium or a big event (like Fair St. Louis around July 4th), expect jams near downtown event venues. If possible, plan your driving outside of rush hours for a smoother ride.
Navigating City Streets: St. Louis’s downtown and neighborhoods are laid out in a grid for the most part, though there are some one-way streets especially in the core downtown. Don’t be intimidated, just pay attention to one-way signage. If you miss a turn, it’s usually easy to go around the block. The city earned its “Gateway” nickname as a historic crossroads, so several major US highways meet here. You’ll notice some roads change names or numbering as they cross the city (for instance, Highway 40 is the same as I-64 through the city). Also, be mindful of pedestrians, especially around tourist spots like the Arch grounds or Washington Avenue dining district, Missouri law requires yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks. Driving in St. Louis is pretty relaxed; locals are used to out-of-towners around the Arch and downtown, so just drive attentively and you’ll be fine. And remember, handheld phone use while driving is now illegal in Missouri (new hands-free law), so use a hands-free setup if you need to make calls or follow GPS voice directions.
Tolls: Good news, Missouri has no statewide toll roads, and there are no tolls in the St. Louis metro area. You won’t encounter toll booths on highways in and around the city. However, if your travels take you into Illinois (just across the river), note that some Illinois highways have tolls (for example, parts of I-70/I-55 if you head toward Chicago). If you plan a longer trip out of Missouri, ask your rental agency about a toll transponder or policy. Typically, rental cars can be equipped with an EZ-Pass/IPass device that works in Illinois and other states, or you can pay online for Illinois tolls if you happen to use those (since Illinois has unmanned toll plazas). But for just St. Louis and immediate surroundings, tolls are not something to worry about.
Parking in St. Louis: Compared to many big cities, parking in St. Louis is plentiful and affordable. Downtown has numerous parking garages and surface lots, especially near Busch Stadium, the Dome at America’s Center, and the Ballpark Village area. Rates are often around $1-2 per hour on-street (with meters typically enforced 8 AM–7 PM, Mon-Sat) and ~$10-20 for full-day in garages. Street Parking: In busy districts like Downtown or Central West End, check meter times, many are free in evenings or on Sundays. Always read signs carefully; downtown has rush-hour no-parking zones on certain blocks (to clear lanes) and occasional street cleaning restrictions. Residential Areas: Some neighborhoods (Soulard, Lafayette Square) have permit zones for residents, heed those signs to avoid tickets. During Events: If you’re going to a Cardinals or Blues game, consider pre-booking a spot via apps like SpotHero, or park a bit farther and walk/transit in, as immediate venue parking fills up quick and can be pricey on game day. Overall, you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding parking, especially outside of major event times. And unlike cities like Chicago, parallel parking isn’t a high-pressure sport here, so take your time, signal, and slide on in.
Driving Laws & Safety: In Missouri, seat belts are mandatory for all front-seat passengers (and all minors), buckle up for safety (and to avoid fines). Child car seats are required by law for young children (generally, kids under 8 must be in an appropriate booster or car seat unless they’re tall/heavy for their age; rental agencies offer these as add-ons if you didn’t bring one). Right on Red is permitted at most intersections after a full stop, unless a sign specifically says “No Right on Red.” If you happen to drive across the Mississippi into Illinois, know that laws are similar in that regard. Speed Limits: On city streets, the default speed limit is 30 mph unless posted otherwise. On highways in Missouri, the limit is usually 60–65 mph near the city and 70 mph on rural interstates. Missouri now enforces a hands-free phone law, no texting or hand-held device use while driving. Police do patrol for speeding on highways (particularly on I-70 and I-270 loops where people sometimes speed up), so stick to limits. And of course, don’t drink and drive, Missouri’s legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% (like most states), and St. Louis has plenty of ride-share options if you plan to enjoy the local breweries.
Weather Considerations: St. Louis weather can vary by season, which might affect your driving. Summers are hot and humid, keep sunglasses in the car and stay hydrated. Thunderstorms can pop up (sometimes heavy) in late spring and summer; if you encounter torrential rain, it’s okay to slow down and put your flashers on if visibility is low (just don’t stop on a highway). Winters can bring snow and ice. The city does plow main roads promptly, but if you’re not used to winter driving, take it slow on snow days and give extra following distance. On the flip side, winter also means watch for black ice on bridges/overpasses after freezing temps. Spring can occasionally bring severe weather (the Midwest gets some tornadoes, though less so in the city itself), if you hear tornado sirens while driving, it’s best to seek shelter (like a gas station or restaurant) until it passes. Keep an eye on weather alerts if you’re here during storm season.
By staying aware and following these tips, you’ll find that driving in St. Louis is quite manageable and often enjoyable, the region boasts some lovely drives, like the scenic Great River Road up the Mississippi or Route 66 remnants through the outskirts. And if you ever feel turned around, just pull over somewhere safe, regroup with your map or GPS, and you’ll be back on track. Enjoy the journey, after all, having a car means you might stumble upon an awesome BBQ joint or a viewpoint that wasn’t even on your itinerary!
Popular Road Trips from St. Louis
One of the best things about renting a car in St. Louis is the ability to embark on some fantastic road trips. Thanks to Missouri’s central location (bordering 8 states!), you have a lot of choices. Here are three popular road trip routes from St. Louis, each offering a unique taste of American scenery and culture:
Of course, these are just a few ideas. With a car, you could also head south on I-55 to Memphis (home of Graceland and blues on Beale Street, ~4 hours away), or east on I-64 to Louisville (bourbon and horse country, ~4.5 hours). You have the wheels, you decide the destination! Check out our Travel Tips blog for more detailed road trip itineraries and suggested stops (for example, we cover a Great River Road drive up the Mississippi and a Route 66 through Missouri guide). Wherever you choose to go, AirportVanRental will help get you there comfortably and affordably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most rental car companies at STL allow after-hours returns. Since the airport is open 24/7, you can bring the car back very early morning or late at night. The procedure is usually: follow the signs to your rental company’s return lot (even if no staff is there, the lot is accessible), park in the returns area, and then locate the key drop box. It’s typically near the office door or in the return lane, a slot labeled “After-hours Key Drop.” Make sure the car is locked, and drop the keys (and your rental contract if instructed) into the box. The next morning, staff will check in the car and finalize your return time as when you dropped it. We highly recommend taking photos of the car (including fuel gauge and mileage) when you drop off, with a timestamp, just for your records. Then, you can hop on the shuttle back to the terminal (shuttles run through the night on a request basis, usually an attendant or a phone number is posted to call one if it’s not already circulating). Plan a bit of extra time navigating a quiet facility at night, but it’s generally safe and straightforward. If your return is super early (like 4 AM), sometimes there will already be staff arriving who can take the keys in person, but if not, the drop box has you covered.
Generally, budget about 20-30 minutes from the time you walk off the plane to when you’re driving out in your rental (assuming you’ve already got your luggage). Here’s the typical timeline: It might take 5-10 minutes to get off the plane and out to baggage claim. Waiting for checked bags can be 0-15 minutes (if you have only carry-on, you save time). The rental shuttle ride is ~5 minutes. At the rental lot, if there’s no line, paperwork is done in 5-10 minutes. If several flights arrived simultaneously, you might hit a line, worst-case maybe 15-20 minutes waiting at the counter, but that’s not common except during peak travel times or if a big flight unloads many customers at once. The rental staff at airports usually stay well-prepared for rushes. Once you have your keys, walking to the car and exiting the lot is another 5 minutes. So in a smooth scenario, you could be out in as little as 15 minutes; in a busier scenario, 30-40 minutes. We recommend, to be safe, plan for 45 minutes from flight arrival to driving off, that covers unexpected delays. If you are part of a rental company’s express program (like National Emerald Club, Hertz Gold, etc.), you might skip the counter and go straight to your car, shaving time down further. Also, if you arrive late at night with no checked bags, you could be pleasantly surprised to be on the road in under 20 minutes. One more tip: use the restroom at the airport after your flight, before hopping on the shuttle, there are restrooms at the rental lots, but it’s easier to go beforehand in case there’s a short wait at the counter.
Yes, like most airports, Lambert has some extra surcharges on rentals. In addition to the base rate and standard Missouri state rental tax (which is around 4-5% plus a $2 per rental fee for police training), rentals at STL include: • Concession Recovery Fee: ~11% of the rental. This reimburses rental companies for the fee they pay the airport to operate on-site. • Customer Facility Charge (CFC): A flat fee (around $4–$5 per day at Lambert) that helps fund airport rental facilities. • Transportation or Shuttle Fee: Some companies roll this into the CFC, but it’s essentially a small fee (a dollar or two) that supports the shuttle service. • Other Misc. Fees: There might be a vehicle license fee or energy recovery fee of a dollar or two, and Missouri charges a small tourism tax on rentals in certain areas. • Airport Security Fee: Often around $3–$5 per rental, goes toward airport infrastructure.
The standard minimum age is 21 years old for most major rental companies at STL. Renters age 21-24 will typically incur a “young driver” fee (around $25 per day, varies by company) and might be limited to certain vehicle categories (usually no luxury cars or large SUVs for under-25 drivers). Once you turn 25, those surcharges drop off and you have full selection. Some agencies will rent to 18-20 year-olds under special circumstances or with higher fees (for example, Enterprise has occasionally allowed 18+ rentals for military or government personnel on duty, or Hertz for insurance replacement needs), but this is not common and comes with strict limitations. If you’re under 25, be sure to check the specific policy of the company you choose, our booking site will usually highlight any age-related restrictions or fees during the reservation process. Also, under-25 renters often need a major credit card (not just a debit card) in their name for the deposit. In summary: 21+ can rent at STL fairly easily (with a fee until 25), and 25+ is hassle-free. Always double-check the terms if you’re a younger driver so you arrive prepared.
It’s easy. St. Louis Lambert provides free shuttle service from both Terminals 1 and 2 to the off-site rental car facilities. After you grab your bags, follow the “Rental Car” signs to the shuttle pick-up area (outside baggage claim). Look for shuttles with your rental company’s logo, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, etc. They run frequently (every few minutes) and even late at night, coordinating with arriving flights. The shuttle ride is only around 5 minutes. You’ll be dropped off right at your rental company’s lot or office, where you can then pick up your car. When returning the car, you’ll also take the shuttle back to the terminal. The process is straightforward and well-marked with signs in the airport.