Quick Summary:
- Follow Baggage Claim signs, then look for Ground Transport and Rental Cars.
- Use the airport shuttle to the Rental Car Center, running frequently.
- Allow 30 to 60 minutes from landing to leaving, depending on queues.
- Keep your licence and card handy, then inspect the vehicle before departure.
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) makes car hire fairly straightforward, but it helps to know what you are looking for the moment you step off the aircraft. The Rental Car Center is not inside the terminal building, so you will follow airport signs to Ground Transportation and take a dedicated shuttle to reach the car hire desks and vehicles. Below is a practical, arrivals-to-keys route, plus realistic time allowances for pick-up.
Step-by-step: from arrivals to the Rental Car Center
Step 1: Leave the aircraft and follow terminal wayfinding to Baggage Claim. After you arrive, follow overhead signs for Baggage Claim and Arrivals. If you are coming in on a domestic flight, you will typically be routed straight into the landside terminal area. If you arrive internationally, complete border control and collect checked luggage first, then continue into the public arrivals space.
Step 2: Collect baggage, then orient yourself using “Ground Transportation” and “Rental Cars” signage. Once you have your luggage, look for the airport’s Ground Transportation signs, which usually cluster directions for shuttles, taxis, ride-share pick-up, public transport, and rental cars. The most common mistake is heading outside via the nearest exit without checking the “Rental Cars” arrows. Take an extra moment to confirm you are following the signs that specifically mention rental cars or the Rental Car Center.
Step 3: Head to the correct exit level for the Rental Car Center shuttle pick-up. Airports can split transport pick-ups across several kerbs or levels. At PIT, the rental car operation is typically served by a dedicated shuttle that departs from the terminal kerb area. Keep an eye on the overhead boards and kerbside signs for “Rental Car Shuttle”, “Rental Car Center”, or similar wording. If you are unsure, ask an airport staff member at the information desk or a uniformed attendant near the doors. It is faster than circling the kerb with luggage.
Step 4: Board the shuttle to the Rental Car Center. The shuttle is the key link between the terminal and the off-site car hire centre. Expect a short ride. Shuttles usually operate frequently during flight bank times, but frequency can vary late at night or very early morning. If a shuttle has just left, stay near the marked stop so you do not miss the next one, and keep your party together because seats can fill quickly when multiple flights land close together.
Step 5: Arrive at the Rental Car Center, then locate your brand counter. Inside the Rental Car Center you will see multiple companies with clear signage above each counter. If you arranged car hire through an aggregator or travel agent, confirm the actual provider name listed on your voucher before joining a queue. This is also a good time to use the toilets, top up water, and reorganise documents, since the next stage is the counter or kiosk process.
Step 6: Complete paperwork at the counter or self-service kiosk. Have your driving licence, payment card, and confirmation number ready. Many providers can pull up your reservation by surname, but having the reference saves time. If you are asked about add-ons like fuel options, toll programmes, or additional drivers, answer clearly and take a moment to understand costs before agreeing. If you are travelling with children, confirm the child seat category matches what you need because availability can be limited at busy times.
Step 7: Follow the “Pick-up/Exit” signs to the vehicle bays. Once you receive your keys or a bay assignment, follow the marked route to the pick-up area. Depending on the provider, you may choose a vehicle from a specific row or be directed to a numbered space. If you have mobility needs, ask staff for the shortest accessible route from the counter to the bays.
Step 8: Do a quick walk-around inspection before you leave. Before you drive off, check the windscreen, bumpers, wheels, and interior for existing damage. Take a few timestamped photos. Confirm the fuel level, and make sure it matches the agreement. Then set up your phone mount, adjust mirrors, and enter your first stop in the sat nav so you are not doing it at the exit barrier.
Which signs to follow (and what they usually look like)
Airport signage is designed for fast scanning while you are tired and carrying bags. From Arrivals, prioritise these terms on overhead signs and wall panels: Baggage Claim, Ground Transportation, Rental Cars, and Shuttle. You might also see “Off-site rental” wording, which simply means the counters and cars are accessed via shuttle rather than a terminal car park.
If you reach a kerb area showing only taxis and ride-share zones, you are likely close but not necessarily at the correct stop. Look for a clearly labelled rental shuttle stop sign. If the kerb is busy, stand back from the traffic lane and keep luggage tight to you, it helps drivers spot you and reduces stress.
Shuttle details: what to expect and how to avoid delays
The shuttle ride itself is usually the fastest part of the process. The bigger variables are waiting time and how quickly you can board. A few practical tips:
Arrive at the stop prepared. Zip up bags, collapse prams, and keep documents in an easy-to-reach pocket. When the shuttle arrives, boarding is smoother and you reduce the chance of being left behind if it fills.
Expect peak surges. If several flights land at once, queues can form at the shuttle stop and at the car hire counters. During these periods, the journey from baggage claim to keys can stretch noticeably.
Late-night arrivals need extra time. Even if the shuttle is running, counters may be staffed more lightly. If your flight arrives very late, allow additional time for service, and double-check your provider’s out-of-hours process in advance.
How much time to allow from landing to driving away
A realistic time allowance helps you plan hotel check-in, meetings, or a long drive out of the city. For most travellers at Pittsburgh Airport, a sensible estimate is 30 to 60 minutes from landing to leaving the Rental Car Center. Here is how that time tends to break down:
10 to 25 minutes: deplane, walk to baggage claim, and collect luggage. If you only have hand luggage, you can often shave this down significantly.
5 to 15 minutes: find the correct shuttle stop and wait for the next bus. At quieter times it can be shorter, at peak arrivals it can be longer.
5 to 10 minutes: shuttle ride and walk into the Rental Car Center.
10 to 30 minutes: queue, paperwork, and getting to the vehicle bay. This is the most variable stage.
If you are travelling in a group, adding an extra 10 minutes is prudent, especially if you need to arrange an additional driver, collect child seats, or sort out luggage Tetris in the boot.
Practical pick-up tips that save time and hassle
Match your documents to your booking name. Your driving licence and card should align with the lead driver name on the reservation, otherwise desk staff may need to rework the agreement.
Choose a car class that fits Pittsburgh roads and your itinerary. For city driving and short trips, compact cars are easy to park. For winter visits or rural drives in Pennsylvania, consider vehicles with better ground clearance and tyres suited to conditions.
Know your first drive-out route before you start the engine. The Rental Car Center exit can be busy. If you set navigation while stationary, you avoid missing turns and reduce stress.
Fuel plan clarity prevents surprises. Ensure you understand whether you are expected to return the car full, and where the nearest petrol stations are likely to be on your departure route.
What if you are not renting at PIT, but planning Pennsylvania travel?
Many travellers fly into Pittsburgh, then later pick up a car in another city for a one-way route across the state. If your plans involve Philadelphia as well, Hola Car Rentals maintains helpful pages for comparing providers and vehicle types. For example, you can review options around Philadelphia Airport car rental or browse city pick-up choices via car rental in Philadelphia. If you prefer UK English localisation when researching car hire, see car hire Philadelphia, and if you are considering a larger vehicle for family or work gear, compare van hire Philadelphia.
Accessibility and special situations
Reduced mobility: If you need step-free access, tell the rental counter staff immediately on arrival at the desk, they can guide you to the most accessible path and vehicle bay. If you require hand controls or other adaptations, confirm availability in advance because such vehicles are limited.
Travelling with children: Factor extra time for child seats. Even when reserved, collection and fitting can slow things down. Check that the seat is appropriate for your child’s height and weight before leaving the bay.
Winter weather: Pennsylvania winters can affect shuttle operations and slow down vehicle prep. Allow more time, and do an extra thorough inspection of tyres, wipers, and screenwash before you drive off.
Common mistakes when trying to reach the Rental Car Center
Following “Ground Transportation” without looking for “Rental Cars”. Ground Transportation can lead you to several pick-up zones. Always confirm you are on the rental shuttle route.
Waiting at the wrong kerb. Some kerbs are for hotel shuttles or employee buses. Look for signage that specifically references rental cars or the Rental Car Center.
Underestimating queue time. Even with a reservation, a busy arrival wave can create counter lines. If you are on a tight schedule, build in slack.
Skipping the vehicle check. A two-minute inspection can prevent lengthy disputes later. Photos are quick and useful.
FAQ
Is the car hire centre inside the Pittsburgh Airport terminal? No. At Pittsburgh Airport the rental operation is accessed by a dedicated shuttle from the terminal to the Rental Car Center.
How do I find the correct shuttle stop for the Rental Car Center? After baggage claim, follow signs for Ground Transportation and Rental Cars, then look for a marked “Rental Car Shuttle” or “Rental Car Center” pick-up point at the kerb.
How long should I allow to pick up a rental car at PIT? Plan for 30 to 60 minutes from landing to driving away. Add time for checked luggage, late-night arrivals, child seats, or peak queues.
What documents do I need at the car hire counter? Bring your driving licence, the payment card used for the rental, and your reservation details. If you have an international licence situation, carry any supporting permit required for your licence type.
Should I inspect the car before leaving the Rental Car Center? Yes. Do a quick walk-around, photograph existing marks, confirm fuel level, and check essentials like lights and wipers before you drive out.
