Car rental at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

TYS Airport Car Rental — McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Compare deals from 9 rental companies right at the airport. Start your trip the moment you land.

Compare 9 providers Quick guide (2 min)
LocationAirport
Providers9
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Check 9 companies ⚡ Live prices 🧾 All terms shown upfront ⭐ Cancel for free

Quick answer: At McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) you can compare rental cars from 9 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.
Search rentals Quick guide Key info FAQ Nearby Map

About Renting a Car at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Rent a car directly at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Alcoa and start your Tennessee journey immediately after landing. With 9 rental companies on-site, you'll always find a good deal and can drive to Knoxville center in 25 minutes or Great Smoky Mountains in 1.5 hours. TYS is the region's main airport and serves all of East Tennessee.

McGhee Tyson Airport is located in Alcoa, 20 km south of Knoxville center via Alcoa Highway (US-129). The airport is named after aviation pioneer Milus McGhee and is located near Blount County with the towns of Maryville and Alcoa, both 5–10 minutes' drive away. Always compare prices between all 9 rental companies at TYS – differences can be significant, especially for longer rental periods.

Drive south on US-129 toward Maryville for cheaper gas stations than at the airport. Book an SUV if you plan to drive Clingmans Dome Road in Great Smoky Mountains – the road can be steep. How long does it take to pick up a rental car at TYS after landing?

Car rental desks are in the terminal and the process typically takes 15–30 minutes depending on queue and rental company. Can I return the car at TYS if I picked it up in Knoxville center? Yes, but check whether the rental company charges an extra fee for one-way rental between different locations.

How far is it from TYS to Gatlinburg? Gatlinburg is about 60 km east via US-321 and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive.

We compare prices from all major providers at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) 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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

🚗 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 – Tennessee. 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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

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

Enterprise
Dollar
Budget
Alamo
National
Hertz
Payless
Avis
Thrifty

Essential Info for Renting at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) you can compare rentals from 9 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 – Tennessee ▼

In USA – Tennessee you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 40 km/h
  • Rural roads: 72 km/h
  • Motorway: 113 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,8 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking is available often in cities, but can be expensive.

Road tolls: Check signs for information if fees.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Which rental companies are available at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)?▼
You can compare 9 rental companies at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) 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 – Tennessee?▼
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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)?▼
The minimum age to rent in USA – Tennessee 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 – Tennessee?▼
In USA – Tennessee you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 40 km/h in urban areas, 72 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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) 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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) 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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)?▼
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 McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Car Rental Guides

InsuranceWhich one should you pick?
Pickup ChecklistBefore you drive off
Save Money7 smart tips

Other Rental Locations Near McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Rent a Car Near McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Other pickup points within driving distance.

4 km
Knoxville CenterCity Center · 2 rental companies
6 km
Knoxville WestCity Center · 2 rental companies
6 km
Knoxville NorthCity Center · 2 rental companies
11 km
Knoxville NorwoodCity Center · 2 rental companies
19 km
Alcoa Airport PlazaCity Center · 2 rental companies
21 km
Alcoa CenterCity Center · 2 rental companies

Explore USA – Tennessee & North America

Search all of North America
Car rentals across USA – Tennessee

Let's get you on the road

Real prices, real terms, 9 providers. See what McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) has to offer.

Compare and book in 2 minutes
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) 9 providers
Find cars