Car rental at Minneapolis Airport

Minneapolis Airport Car Hire (MSP)

See real-time prices from 12 car hire companies. Collect your car at arrivals and go.

LocationAirport
Providers12
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Compare 12 options ⚡ Instant results 🧾 Transparent pricing ⭐ Flexible booking

Quick answer: At Minneapolis Airport you can compare rental cars from 12 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 Minneapolis Airport

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the region's largest airport and offers 12 rental companies on-site – the best selection in all of Minnesota. The airport is approximately 20 km from Minneapolis city center and 18 km from Saint Paul city center, with direct access to I-494 and Highway 77. MSP serves both Twin Cities and is located in Bloomington, near the Mall of America which is only 3 km away.

The Rental Car Center is centralized in its own building, which you reach via a free shuttle from the terminals, making the pickup process smooth. With 12 rental companies, price competition is strong – book online in advance for the best rate and avoid walk-in prices. Drive north on Highway 77 or I-35W for quick access to Minneapolis, or take I-494 east toward Saint Paul.

Return your car with a full tank – a gas station is located right by the Rental Car Center. How do I get to the Rental Car Center at MSP? Free shuttles depart from Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) and Terminal 2 (Humphrey) every 5–10 minutes around the clock.

How long does it take to drive from MSP to Minneapolis city center? Approximately 20 km and 20–25 minutes via I-494 and I-35W, but allow 35–40 minutes during rush hour. Can I pick up a rental car at MSP and return it in a different city?

Yes, most of the 12 rental companies offer one-way rentals – check for any additional fees when booking.

We compare prices from all major providers at Minneapolis 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.

Renting at Minneapolis Airport - The Short Version

🚗 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 – Minnesota. 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 Minneapolis Airport

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

Alamo
Budget
Dollar
Ace Rent a car
Avis
Hertz
Enterprise
National
Thrifty
NextCar
SIXT
Payless

Essential Info for Renting at Minneapolis Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At Minneapolis Airport you can compare rentals from 12 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 – Minnesota

In USA – Minnesota you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 110 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,08 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking is usually available in cities, but check fees.

Road tolls: No

Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Minneapolis Airport

Which rental companies are available at Minneapolis Airport?
You can compare 12 rental companies at Minneapolis 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 – Minnesota?
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 Minneapolis Airport?
The minimum age to rent in USA – Minnesota 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 – Minnesota?
In USA – Minnesota you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 110 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?
When collecting your car at Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis Airport

Other Rental Locations Near Minneapolis Airport

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Check prices from 12 providers at Minneapolis Airport - pick your dates and see what's available.

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