Car rental at Philadelphia Airport

Rent a Car at Philadelphia Airport (PHL)

Compare deals from 10 rental companies right at the airport. Start your trip the moment you land.

LocationAirport
Providers10
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Check 10 companies ⚡ Live prices 🧾 All terms shown upfront ⭐ Cancel for free

Quick answer: At Philadelphia Airport you can compare rental cars from 10 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 Philadelphia Airport

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is eastern Pennsylvania's largest airport with 10 rental companies – the best selection in the region. The airport is located 14 km southwest of Philadelphia center and accessible via I-95 or I-76 in 20–30 minutes. PHL serves over 30 million passengers annually and has direct connections via SEPTA's Airport Line to downtown.

The rental office is located in Terminal E and is accessible by free shuttle from all terminals. With 10 rental companies, competition is fierce – book online in advance for the best price and avoid lines at the counter. Fill up the car before returning it; gas stations along Island Avenue (PA-291) are cheaper than the airport's own.

Drive north on I-95 for the fastest route into Philadelphia center, avoid rush hour 07–09 and 16–18. Where do I pick up my rental car at Philadelphia Airport? All rental companies are located together in the Rental Car Center in Terminal E.

Take the free shuttle from your arrival terminal directly to the center. How long does it take to drive from PHL to Philadelphia center? It's 14 km via I-95 north and normally takes 20–25 minutes, but up to 45 minutes during rush hour.

Can I drive to New York City with a rental car from PHL? Yes, New York is approximately 150 km north via I-95 and takes 2–2.5 hours. Check that your rental company allows driving in New Jersey and New York.

We compare prices from all major providers at Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 – Pennsylvania. 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 Philadelphia Airport

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

Dollar
Avis
Alamo
SIXT
Enterprise
Budget
Hertz
National
Thrifty
Payless

Essential Info for Renting at Philadelphia Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers

At Philadelphia Airport you can compare rentals from 10 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 – Pennsylvania

In USA – Pennsylvania you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 90 km/h
  • Motorway: 105 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,08 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls

Parking is available in cities but can be expensive and limited.

Road tolls: Check if ditt hyrbilsforetag haves en tullbetalningslösning.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Philadelphia Airport

Which rental companies are available at Philadelphia Airport?
You can compare 10 rental companies at Philadelphia 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 – Pennsylvania?
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 Philadelphia Airport?
The minimum age to rent in USA – Pennsylvania 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 – Pennsylvania?
In USA – Pennsylvania you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads and 105 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?
When collecting your car at Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia

Other Rental Locations Near Philadelphia Airport

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Check prices from 10 providers at Philadelphia Airport — pick your dates and see what's available.

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