Orlando Airport - Car Rental, Directions, and Nearby Travel Options
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest gateways in the United States, serving theme parks, convention centers, and beaches across Central Florida. For travelers who want maximum convenience, car rental Orlando airport is straightforward: on‑airport counters, clear signage, and short walks to pick‑up areas make it easy to collect a vehicle and begin your trip. Whether you’re here for the parks or a coastal getaway, being able to rent a car Orlando airport saves time and gives you the freedom to explore at your pace.
Where to find the car rental area at MCO
At the Main Terminal, car rental desks are located on Level 1 (Ground Transportation) of both Terminal A and Terminal B. These are true on‑airport counters, so you can walk from baggage claim to the providers without leaving the building. Terminal C is connected to the Main Terminal by the Terminal Link automated people mover (APM). Travelers arriving at Terminal C can ride the APM and then go down to Level 1 in Terminal A or B for on‑airport rentals. Off‑airport companies operate courtesy shuttles from the Ground Transportation areas.
Step‑by‑step directions from each terminal
- From Terminal A: After you collect luggage on Level 2, take the elevator or escalator down one level to Level 1 (Ground Transportation). Follow “Rental Cars” signs to the counters on the A‑Side. Vehicle pick‑up areas are in Parking Garage A, a short walk across the roadway via marked walkways.
- From Terminal B: From baggage claim on Level 2, go down to Level 1. Follow “Rental Cars” signs to the B‑Side counters. After completing paperwork, proceed to Parking Garage B to pick up your vehicle.
- From Terminal C: Follow signs to the Terminal Link (APM) and ride to the Main Terminal. From there, descend to Level 1 on either the A‑Side or B‑Side to reach the on‑airport counters. Off‑airport provider shuttles also pick up on the Ground Transportation Level at Terminal C; look for the shared‑ride and rental shuttle zones.
Wayfinding at MCO is clear, with large “Rental Cars” and color‑coded A/B‑Side signage. Walking times from baggage claim to the counters are typically just a few minutes, and the APM ride between Terminal C and the Main Terminal takes approximately 4 minutes.
Car rental companies at or near Orlando Airport
On‑airport providers typically include the major brands below, operating desks on Level 1 of Terminals A and B with vehicles staged in the adjacent garages:
- Alamo
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- National
- Payless
- Sixt
- Thrifty
Several additional companies serve the airport from nearby lots and offer frequent shuttles to and from the terminals. Common options for car hire near Orlando airport include Ace, Fox, Green Motion, NU, Routes, and other independent agencies. These operators can be a good match if you’re seeking cheap car hire Orlando airport with competitive rates and a broad selection across economy, SUVs, and minivans. Availability and hours can vary; check the airport website or your confirmation to verify current providers.
How to reach the rental area: walking, tram, and shuttles
- Walking (Terminals A/B): From baggage claim, descend to Level 1 for the counters. After paperwork, follow signs to the attached parking garage (A‑Side or B‑Side). Covered walkways keep you out of the elements.
- Terminal Link (APM) from Terminal C: Follow signs to the APM and ride to the Main Terminal. Then head to Level 1 for car rental desks. The APM runs frequently throughout the day.
- Courtesy shuttles (off‑airport companies): Pick‑up points are on the Ground Transportation Level at all terminals. Look for the company name on the shuttle or the digital totem. Shuttles typically run every 10–15 minutes.
- Accessibility: Elevators, ramps, and curbside elevators are available. If you require hand controls or other adaptive equipment, request this in advance so it’s ready at pick‑up.
Useful tips for picking up and returning rental cars
- Pre‑book for value: Booking early usually secures the best Orlando airport car hire deals, especially during holidays and school breaks.
- Documents and payment: Bring a valid driver’s license, a credit card in the main driver’s name, and your reservation. International visitors may also need an International Driving Permit depending on the rental policy.
- Insurance and extras: Review liability and collision coverage, and reserve child seats, GPS, or toll transponders in advance to guarantee availability.
- Tolls: Central Florida roads use electronic tolling (E‑PASS/SunPass). Ask how your provider charges tolls to avoid unexpected fees, or plan toll‑free routes in your navigation app.
- Vehicle inspection: Photograph the car during pick‑up and again at return, noting fuel level and any pre‑existing marks on the agreement.
- Fuel choices: Compare prepay fuel with a standard return‑full policy. Keeping your receipt within a short time of return is helpful.
- Return routing: Follow “Rental Car Return” signs to Parking Garage A or B (or your provider’s off‑airport lot). Allow extra time for traffic, fueling, and the walk to the terminal. A buffer of 30–45 minutes prior to your target check‑in time is sensible.
Transport alternatives if you are not renting
Taxis
Metered taxis queue on Level 1 (Ground Transportation) at Terminals A and B and at the Ground Transportation area at Terminal C. They operate 24/7 and accept cards. This is a good option for direct trips to resorts or downtown.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft use designated pick‑up zones signed as “Ride App” areas. Follow the app to the exact curb bay for your terminal and side (A or B). Pricing varies by time of day and demand.
Bus and rail
LYNX public buses provide budget‑friendly service from the Ground Transportation Level (typically on the A‑Side) to downtown Orlando, International Drive, and other corridors. For intercity rail, the Brightline station is connected to Terminal C and links the airport with South Florida. Trips to Miami take roughly 3–3.5 hours on nonstop or limited‑stop services.
Hotel and shared shuttles
Many area hotels and resorts operate courtesy shuttles; confirm pick‑up points and frequency in advance. Private vans and shared shuttles can also be booked for groups and are helpful when carrying extra luggage or sports equipment.
Nearby hotels
The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport sits inside the Main Terminal, perfect for late arrivals or early departures. Nearby properties along Semoran Boulevard (SR‑436) include Marriott Orlando Airport Lakeside, Renaissance Orlando Airport, Hyatt Place Orlando Airport, Sheraton Suites Orlando Airport, and Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando Airport. Many provide free airport shuttles and flexible parking, and some pair well with next‑day car hire near Orlando airport if you prefer to rest before collecting wheels.
Why rent a car at Orlando Airport
With a vehicle, you gain flexibility to reach the theme parks, golf courses, the Space Coast, and natural springs on your schedule. Families can manage strollers and luggage more easily, and business travelers can optimize meeting agendas. Choosing to rent a car Orlando airport delivers comfort, privacy, and control over routes and stops, often at total trip costs that compare well with multiple rideshares. If you want the best value, search for cheap car hire Orlando airport and filter by mileage, fuel policy, and cancellation terms.
Book early for the best deals
Inventory can tighten quickly during peak travel periods. Secure Orlando airport car hire deals by reserving online in advance, choosing flexible rates when possible, and setting alerts to track price drops. With the car ready on Level 1 and vehicles staged a short walk away, pick‑up and departure are smooth-letting you start your Central Florida itinerary without delay.