Car Rental at Alaska Airport

Alaska's rental market is concentrated at three airports, each with a different setup that affects how long pickup takes. At Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), all major rental brands operate from a consolidated Rental Car Center across from the South Terminal, reached by a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes around the clock. Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) and Juneau International Airport (JNU) have counters inside the terminal baggage claim area with vehicles parked on-site, so no shuttle is needed. Demand peaks between March and October, and booking well in advance during those months is the most reliable way to secure your preferred vehicle class. Fuel prices vary significantly across the state — Anchorage averages around US$4.60 per gallon while Fairbanks can run closer to US$3.50 — so plan fuel stops carefully given the long distances between towns. Alaska has virtually no toll roads; the only toll facility is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel into Whittier, where a round-trip costs US$13.00 for a passenger vehicle, payable by cash or card at the booth. Most rental agreements prohibit driving on unpaved roads such as the Dalton Highway or McCarthy Road, and violations can void your coverage. A credit card in the primary driver's name is required at pickup for the deposit hold, typically US$200–US$400 depending on the brand and vehicle class. Drivers whose licenses use a non-Latin script should carry an International Driving Permit alongside the original license.