Car rental at Monterey Airport

Monterey Airport Car Rental (MRY)

See real-time prices from 6 car hire companies. Collect your car at arrivals and go.

LocationAirport
Providers6
Price tipBook 2-4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+

Quick answer: At Monterey Airport you can compare rental cars from 6 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely - not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2-4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready - that's where most people get caught out.

About Renting a Car at Monterey Airport

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) offers a convenient alternative to San Francisco or LA for those who want to explore California's beautiful central west coast. With 6 rental companies on site, you'll easily find a car ready to drive right upon arrival along the legendary Highway 1. The airport is just 5 km from Monterey city center, making pickup quick and easy.

From the airport, you'll reach Carmel-by-the-Sea in about 10 km (15 minutes) and Big Sur begins about 45 km south along the coast. Pebble Beach and 17-Mile Drive are just 15 minutes' drive away. Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the USA's best, is reached in under 10 minutes from the terminal.

Choose a car with good fuel efficiency - Highway 1 along Big Sur has no gas stations for long stretches. Book in advance during summer months when the Monterey Peninsula is popular and cars run out early. Always bring a jacket - the coast can be chilly even in July.

How many car rental companies are at Monterey airport? There are 6 rental companies at MRY, including the major chains, with desks in the arrivals hall or in direct connection to the terminal. Can I drive Highway 1 to San Francisco from Monterey?

Yes, it's one of California's most beautiful drives. The route is about 190 km and takes 3-4 hours via Highway 1, or about 2 hours via US-101. Is it possible to return the car at another location?

Yes, most rental companies at MRY offer one-way rentals to San Francisco, San Jose, or Los Angeles for an additional fee.

We compare prices from all major providers at Monterey Airport so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Your 2-Minute Guide to Renting at Monterey Airport

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra - check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of California (USA). Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Monterey Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Budget
Alamo
Hertz
Enterprise
Avis
National

Essential Info for Renting at Monterey Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Monterey Airport you can compare rentals from 6 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2-4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in California (USA) ▼

In California (USA) you drive on the right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 40-56 km/h
  • Rural roads: 89-105 km/h
  • Motorway: 105-129 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0.8 per mille
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking can be expensive in cities, always check signs for fees.

Road tolls: Check if your rental car has a transponder for easy payment.

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Monterey Airport

Which rental companies are available at Monterey Airport?▼
You can compare 6 rental companies at Monterey Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in California (USA)?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Monterey Airport?▼
The minimum age to rent in California (USA) is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in California (USA)?▼
In California (USA) you drive on the right side. Speed limits: 40-56 km/h in urban areas, 89-105 km/h on rural roads and 105-129 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Monterey Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Monterey Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Monterey Airport?▼
Generally, booking 2-4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Monterey Airport

Other Rental Locations Near Monterey Airport

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Check prices from 6 providers at Monterey Airport - pick your dates and see what's available.

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