Car rental at Chicago Midway Airport

Car Rental at Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)

Check live prices from 7 providers at the terminal. Pick up your keys and hit the road - no queues, no stress.

LocationAirport
Providers7
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ 7 providers compared ⚡ Results in 30 seconds 🧾 No hidden fees ⭐ Free cancellation

Quick answer: At Chicago Midway Airport you can compare rental cars from 7 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 Chicago Midway Airport

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is located 13 km southwest of Chicago's downtown and offers 7 car rental companies on-site for seamless car pickup right after landing. Midway is a more compact alternative to O'Hare and often has shorter wait times at the rental desk. From Midway it's a 20-minute drive to Chicago's downtown via I-55, and the Orland Park shopping center is reached in 15 minutes south via I-294.

Indiana Dunes National Park is located 65 km east, perfect for a day trip. The rental stations at Midway are located in the airport's central terminal – follow signs to 'Rental Car' right after baggage claim. Book your car in advance during summer season when Southwest Airlines' many flights create high demand.

Choose a vehicle with GPS if you're unfamiliar with Chicago's street grid. Where are the rental cars located at Midway airport? The rental stations are located in the terminal building on the ground level, and cars are picked up in the adjacent parking garage.

How long does it take to drive from Midway to Chicago downtown? Via I-55 it typically takes 20–25 minutes outside rush hour, but up to 45 minutes during morning and afternoon rush. Can I return the rental car at O'Hare if I pick it up at Midway?

Yes, one-way rentals between Midway and O'Hare are possible with most companies, but an additional fee usually applies.

We compare prices from all major providers at Chicago Midway 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.

What to Know Before Picking Up at Chicago Midway 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 USA – Illinois. 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 Chicago Midway Airport

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

Dollar
Alamo
Hertz
National
Avis
Budget
Enterprise

Essential Info for Renting at Chicago Midway Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At Chicago Midway Airport you can compare rentals from 7 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 USA – Illinois

In USA – Illinois you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 40 km/h
  • Rural roads: 96 km/h
  • Motorway: 113 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,8 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking in cities can be expensive, look for feesfria zoner.

Road tolls: Have koll på signs indicating toll fees.

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Chicago Midway Airport

Which rental companies are available at Chicago Midway Airport?
You can compare 7 rental companies at Chicago Midway 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 USA – Illinois?
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 Chicago Midway Airport?
The minimum age to rent in USA – Illinois 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 USA – Illinois?
In USA – Illinois you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 40 km/h in urban areas, 96 km/h on rural roads and 113 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?
When collecting your car at Chicago Midway 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 Chicago Midway 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 Chicago Midway 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 Chicago Midway Airport

Other Rental Locations Near Chicago Midway Airport

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7 rental companies at Chicago Midway Airport. Enter your dates and find the right car.

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