Skip to Content

Best 6 Car Rental Companies at John F. Kennedy International Airport: A Complete Guide to the JFK Rental Car Center

By: Author Teacher Catalina

Posted on Last updated:

Planning a trip to John F. Kennedy International? If you’re looking to rent a car, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll provide a complete guide to car rental at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

We’ll cover everything from the different car rental companies that operate at JFK to how to get to the rental car center from the airport terminals. We’ll also give you some tips for saving money on your car rental.

We may receive a small commission if you purchase something through the links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my Dreams.

Teacher Tip: Before securing your car rental, visit Rentalcars.com to ensure you get the best deal!” 🌍🚗🔑

My top 6 Rental Car companies at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

I’ve tried several car rental companies, and here are my recommendations:

  1. SIXT Rental Cars is a great option for car rental. SIXT is my favorite because they have the best customer service and always have the car I want ready for me. I love their SUVs, but they also have great economy cars, luxury cars, and vans. Their prices are competitive, and their staff is friendly and helpful. I’ve rented from SIXT several times and have always had a good experience, and I’m sure you will too. Check SIXT Car Rental’s best deals.
  • 3.9 Stars, 1,017 Google reviews
  • SIXT: opening time 6:00 a.m to 1:00 a.m.
  • Call 888-749-8227 to Contact SIXT Car Rental.

  1. National Car Rental: I’ve rented from National several times and have always been happy with their service. They have many cars to choose from, and their prices are competitive. The staff is always friendly and helpful. Check National Car Rental’s best deals.
  • 4.4 Stars, 989 Google reviews
  • National: opening time 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
  • Call 844-648-1610 to contact National Car Rental. 

  1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise is another excellent option. They have a large fleet of cars, and their prices are very reasonable. They also offer a variety of discounts and promotions. We had family from out of town, and they had a fantastic Chevrolet Suburban ready for us, which was terrific. Check out Enterprise Cars.
  • 4.3 Stars, 2,192 Google reviews
  • Hertz: Opening Times: 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
  • Call 844-648-1609 to Contact Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
  1. Alamo Rent-A-Car is a good choice for travelers seeking a more affordable option. They offer a variety of car classes, and their prices are typically lower than other car rental companies in John F. Kennedy International Airport. Check out, Alamo.
  • 4.3 Stars, 716 Google reviews
  • Alamo:  opening time 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
  • Call +1 844-648-1611 to Contact Alamo Rent-A-Car.
  1. Hertz is a well-known car rental company that offers a variety of car classes and amenities. They have a large fleet of cars, so you’ll find the perfect vehicle for your needs. Hertz is also a good option for travelers looking for rewards programs, Hertz car rental at John F. Kennedy International Airport airport. Check out, Hertz.
  • 3.6 Stars, 2,219 Google reviews
  • Hertz: Opening Times: 24/7
  • Call 718-656-7600 to Contact Hertz.


  1. Avis is a good car rental company because it offers a variety of cars to choose from, including economy cars, SUVs, minivans, luxury cars, and even trucks, but their vehicles are top-of-the-line. Avis is a good choice for travelers seeking a luxurious car rental experience. Check out what vehicles Avis has ready for you. 
  • 3.4 Stars, 2,835 Google reviews
  • Avis: is open 24/7
  • Call (1) 718-244-5400 to Contact Avis.

Ultimately, the best car rental company for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the most important factors to you, such as price, car class, amenities, and rewards programs. Then, compare the different companies to find the best one for you.

Compare the different Car Rental companies to find the best one below.

How do I get to the John F. Kennedy International Airport rental car center?

There are two ways to get to the John F. Kennedy International Airport rental car center:

  • By AirTrain: The AirTrain is a free shuttle train that connects all 9 terminals at JFK Airport to the rental car center. To get to the rental car center, take the AirTrain to the Federal Circle station. The rental car center is located just outside the station.
  • By shuttle bus: Some car rental companies offer free shuttle buses from the terminals to the rental car center. To find out if your car rental company offers a shuttle bus, check their website or call them directly.

Here are the steps on how to get to the rental car center by AirTrain:

  1. Once you have arrived at JFK Airport, follow the signs to the AirTrain.
  2. Take the AirTrain to the Federal Circle station.
  3. Exit the AirTrain station and follow the signs to the rental car center.
  4. The rental car center is located just outside the station.

Here are the steps on how to get to the rental car center by shuttle bus:

  1. Once you have arrived at JFK Airport, find the shuttle bus stop for your car rental company.
  2. Wait for the shuttle bus to arrive.
  3. Board the shuttle bus and show your rental car confirmation to the driver.
  4. The shuttle bus will take you to the rental car center.

Source: www.openstreetmap.org

Where does the JFk AirTrain go

The JFK AirTrain goes to three destinations:

  • The terminals at JFK Airport: The AirTrain connects all 9 terminals at JFK Airport, making it easy to get around the airport without having to drag your luggage through the terminals.
  • The Howard Beach Station: The Howard Beach Station is located in Queens, New York. It is a transfer point for the New York City Subway (A train) and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
  • The Jamaica Station: The Jamaica Station is also located in Queens, New York. It is a major transfer point for the New York City Subway (E, J, and Z trains) and the LIRR.

The JFK AirTrain is free to ride between the terminals at JFK Airport. However, there is a fare to ride the AirTrain to the Howard Beach Station or the Jamaica Station. The fare is $8.25 for adults and $4.15 for children.

Check here for the best prices on Flights.

Is there a rental car shuttle at John F. Kennedy International

Yes, there are rental car shuttles at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Most car rental companies offer free shuttle buses from the terminals to the rental car center. To find out if your car rental company offers a shuttle bus, check their website or call them directly.

How late can you pick up a rental car at John F. Kennedy International Airport?

The hours of operation for the rental car center at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) vary depending on the rental car company. However, most companies are open to 12:00 a.m.. Here are the rental car companies that operate at JFK and their hours of operation:

  • Alamo: 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Local Counter: 844-648-1611
  • Avis: 24/7 Local Counter: 718-244-5400
  • Budget: 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Local Counter: 718-656-1890
  • Dollar: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Local Counter: 866-434-2226
  • Enterprise: 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Local Counter: 844-648-1609
  • Hertz: 24/7 Local Counter:718-656-7600
  • National: 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Local Counter: 844-648-1610
  • SIXT: 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Call: 888-749-8227

Compare the different Car Rental companies to find the best one below.

Here are the steps on how to return a car at John F. Kennedy International Airport:

  1. Check the rental agreement. Make sure you know the mileage and fuel level you are supposed to return the car with. You can find this information on your rental agreement.
  2. Fill up the gas tank. You will be charged for the difference if you do not return the car with a full gas tank.
  3. Clean the car inside and out. Make sure the car is clean and free of the trash. You may also be charged for cleaning if the car is not clean.
  4. Park the car in the designated return area. The return area is located on the east side of the airport, just off of Tahquitz Canyon Way.
  5. Go to the rental car return counter. The counter is located in the main terminal, near baggage claim.
  6. Turn in your rental agreement and keys. The agent will inspect the car and check the mileage and fuel level.
  7. Pay any outstanding charges. If you have any outstanding charges, such as late fees or fuel charges, you must pay them at the counter.
  8. Get your receipt. The agent will give you a receipt for your return.

Here are some additional tips for returning your car at  John F. Kennedy International Airport:

  • Allow plenty of time to return your car. The Rental Car Center can get busy, especially during peak travel times.
  • Follow your rental car company’s instructions if you return your car after hours. Some companies have after-hours drop-off locations, while others require you to leave the keys in a designated box.
  • Be sure to scrutinize the car before you return it. If you see any damage, report it to the agent immediately.

Saving Money on Your Car Rental at John F. Kennedy International Airport

  • Book your car rental in advance. This will give you more time to compare prices and find the best deal. You can use a website like Kayak or Expedia to compare prices from car rental companies.
  • Consider renting a car during the off-season. This is when car rental rates are typically lower. For example,  John F. Kennedy International Airport is a popular tourist destination during winter, so car rental rates will be higher if you can. Try to rent a car during the summer or fall months when rates are typically lower.
  • Be flexible with your pick-up and drop-off times. You can save money by picking up your car in the morning or late at night. Car rental companies typically charge higher rates for pick-up and drop-off during peak hours.
  • Join a car rental loyalty program. This can give you access to discounts and other perks. For example, many car rental loyalty programs offer free upgrades or waived fees.
  • Consider renting a car from an off-airport location. Off-airport car rental locations are typically cheaper than on-airport car rental locations. However, it would help if you took a shuttle bus to get to the rental office.
  • Read the fine print before you book your car rental. Be sure to understand all of the terms and conditions of your rental agreement, including the cancellation policy and any additional fees that may apply.

Here are some additional tips that you can follow to save money on your car rental at  John F. Kennedy International Airport:

  • Use a credit card that offers travel rewards. Many credit cards offer points or miles that can be redeemed for car rentals. This can help you save money on car rental, especially if you rent cars frequently.
  • Check with your insurance company to see if they offer rental car insurance. Many insurance companies offer rental car insurance as part of their policies. This can save you money on the insurance that you purchase from the car rental company.
  • Be sure to inspect the car carefully before you drive it away. Please take note of any existing damage to the vehicle so that you are not responsible for it when you return the vehicle.

Can I drop off a rental car at a different location?

You can drop off a rental car at a different location, but there are usually some restrictions and fees.

Most rental car companies allow one-way rentals, but there may be a one-way drop-off fee. The fee will vary depending on the rental car company and the drop-off location.

In some cases, you may also be required to pre-approve the one-way drop-off with the rental car company. This is especially true if you are dropping off the car at a location that is not a major airport or city.

Contact the rental car company in advance to find out if you can drop off your rental car at a different location and the fees.

Here are some additional things to remember when dropping off a rental car at a different location: ● You must return the car with a full gas tank.

  • You may be charged for any additional wear and tear on the car.
  • You may be required to pay a late fee if you drop off the car after the agreed-upon time.

It is always best to check with the rental car company in advance to get specific details about dropping off a rental car at a different location.

What are the different types of airport car rental places? 

There are two main types of airport car rental places: on-airport and off-airport. On-airport car rental places are located directly at the airport, while off-airport car rental places are located a short distance away from the airport.

What are the pros and cons of on-airport and off-airport car rental places?

On-airport car rental places are more convenient, as you can pick up and drop off your car at the airport. However, they are also typically more expensive than off-airport car rental places. Off-airport car rental places are less convenient, as you must take a shuttle bus to the rental office. However, they are often much cheaper than on-airport car rental places.

What are the different factors that affect the cost of a car rental? 

The cost of car rental can vary depending on several factors, including the type of car you rent, the length of your rental, and the time of year you rent. Other factors that can affect the cost of car rental include your age, your driving record, and whether you have any insurance.

What are the different fees that I may be charged for car rental?

 In addition to the rental price, you may also be charged for several other fees, including fuel charges, airport fees, and drop-off fees. Fuel charges are typically based on the fuel the car has when you return it, and the airport charges airport fees for the privilege of renting a car there. Drop-off fees are charged if you return the vehicle to a different location than where you picked it up.