Picking up a rental car at LAX for the first time can feel confusing. The airport is large, the signage is not always obvious, and the last thing you want after a long flight is to wander around looking for the right shuttle stop. This guide walks you through the complete process from landing to driving including the faster off-airport option that experienced LA travelers use to skip the terminal queues entirely.
Option A: Picking Up at the On-Airport ConRAC Facility
All major on-airport rental companies at LAX operate from the Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility.
Step 1 Land and make your way to baggage claim Follow airport signage toward baggage claim. LAX has 9 terminals in a U-shape. Your terminal depends on your airline.
Step 2 Collect your luggage Wait at the baggage carousel on the lower level. This typically takes 15–30 minutes on busy flights. Have your confirmation number ready on your phone while you wait.
Step 3 Follow signs to the rental car shuttle Exit the terminal to the lower level arrivals and ground transportation area. Look for the purple Rental Car Shuttles signs. The pickup zone is on the outer curb of the lower level.
💡 Insider Tip: The rental car shuttle area is on the lower arrivals level not upstairs at Departures. Look specifically for the purple Rental Car Shuttles signs rather than general ground transportation signs.
Step 4 Board the ConRAC shuttle Shuttles run every 5–10 minutes. The ride to ConRAC takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on airport traffic.
Step 5 Check in at your rental company counter During peak hours mornings and late afternoons queues can run 20–40 minutes. Have your confirmation number, driver’s license, and credit card ready before you reach the front.
Step 6 Decline or accept add-ons The counter agent will offer insurance, GPS, prepaid fuel, and additional driver coverage. Know in advance what your credit card covers and what your personal auto policy includes. Declining what you don’t need can save $15–$30 per day.
Step 7 Inspect your vehicle before driving Walk around the car and photograph any existing damage from every angle before leaving the facility. Note it on your rental agreement. This protects you from being charged for damage you did not cause.
Step 8 Exit and drive Follow exit signs from ConRAC onto the freeway. Staff can direct you to the best exit for your destination.
📊 Quick Fact: The full ConRAC process averages 45–60 minutes during peak periods at LAX. During off-peak hours early morning or late night the process can take as little as 25–30 minutes.
Option B: The Faster Off-Airport Pickup with 24Seven Rent A Car
If you want to skip the ConRAC queue entirely, 24Seven Rent A Car in Inglewood offers a faster alternative that experienced LA travelers use regularly.
Step 1: Land at LAX and collect your luggage as normal
Step 2: Call 24Seven Rent A Car we arrange your free shuttle pickup immediately
Step 3: Wait at the ground transportation area outside your terminal
Step 4: Our shuttle picks you up and drives directly to our Inglewood location approximately 5 minutes
Step 5: Check in at our desk, inspect your vehicle, and drive typically 15–20 minutes from when you called
No ConRAC queues. No crowded multi-stop shuttle loop. A straightforward process that gets you on the road faster.
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- 👉 Renting a car at LAX for first-time visitors
What to Have Ready Before You Reach the Counter
- Valid driver’s license U.S. or international
- Credit or debit card in the primary driver’s name
- Rental confirmation number or booking email
- Proof of insurance if declining the rental company’s coverage
- Passport if you are an international visitor
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I pick up my rental car at LAX?
On-airport rental cars are picked up from the ConRAC facility, accessible by a free purple-signed shuttle from the lower arrivals level of any LAX terminal. Off-airport companies like 24Seven Rent A Car provide their own free shuttle pickup from the same ground transportation area.
How long does it take to pick up a rental car at LAX?
At on-airport companies during peak hours the full process takes 45–60 minutes. At 24Seven Rent A Car in Inglewood, most customers are checked in and driving within 15–20 minutes of arriving at our location.
Do I need to take a shuttle to get my rental car at LAX?
Yes, if you booked an on-airport company. All on-airport rentals require taking the free ConRAC shuttle from your terminal. Off-airport companies like 24Seven Rent A Car operate their own direct shuttle from the terminal no multi-stop loop.
What should I do if my flight is delayed?
Contact your rental company as soon as you know about the delay. Most companies hold reservations for several hours. At 24Seven Rent A Car, call us when you land and we arrange pickup whenever you are ready.
Can I pick up a rental car at LAX at midnight or 3 AM?
Yes. 24Seven Rent A Car offers early morning and late-night pickup options. Call ahead to confirm availability and arrange your shuttle for late-night arrivals.
Ready to Skip the Queue?
24Seven Rent A Car free LAX shuttle, transparent pricing, open 7 days a week.