Quick Summary:
- Orlando Airport car hire desks are in the on-site Car Rental Center.
- Major brands plus value options operate at MCO across both terminals.
- Follow Ground Transportation signs, then choose the correct counter row.
- Compare total price, fuel policy, toll options, and after-hours returns.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is built for high-volume arrivals, and car hire is one of the most common next steps after baggage claim. The good news is that most well-known rental brands are represented, and the airport layout makes it relatively straightforward to get from your flight to the car park. The detail that catches many travellers out is not whether a company is “at the airport”, but whether it is inside the on-site Car Rental Center, on an airport shuttle lot, or off-airport with a separate shuttle. This guide focuses on the on-site set-up that most people mean when asking which car rental companies are at Orlando Airport in Orlando.
Before we get into the company list, it helps to understand how MCO is organised. The airport has two main terminals, A and B, with separate airsides. Regardless of which side you arrive on, you will usually follow signs to Ground Transportation and the Car Rental Center. This is where the main on-airport rental desks are located, alongside the multi-storey car parks where you collect your vehicle.
Where car hire companies are located at Orlando Airport (MCO)
At Orlando Airport, the primary place for car hire is the on-site Car Rental Center. It is connected to the main terminal complex and is designed to consolidate check-in counters and vehicle pick-up in one area. In practical terms, that means you will typically complete paperwork at a staffed counter or kiosk and then head a short distance to the level and row where your vehicle is parked.
Follow the airport signage for “Car Rental” or “Ground Transportation”. If you are arriving internationally, complete immigration and customs first, then proceed to the public arrivals area. From there, the signs become consistent and easy to follow. The point is to stay within the terminal complex, rather than looking for an off-site shuttle unless your specific provider states otherwise.
If you have used airport car hire elsewhere, MCO will feel familiar. The biggest difference is volume, queues can build at peak holiday arrival times. Knowing which companies are on-site, and having your documents prepared, can reduce the time you spend at the counter.
Which car rental companies are at Orlando Airport in Orlando?
Orlando Airport hosts a wide range of car hire brands, including global majors and popular value-focused options. While brand presence can change over time, the companies most commonly associated with MCO’s on-site rental operation include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, Thrifty, and Zipcar. Some additional brands may operate seasonally, or via a partner desk, so it is always worth confirming your supplier’s pick-up instructions on your booking confirmation.
To interpret this list correctly, think in terms of what you need the hire car for. A family trip to theme parks often prioritises space and luggage capacity, while a business visit might prioritise speedy collection, straightforward invoicing, and a clear fuel policy. The best company for you is the one whose total cost and conditions match your plans, not simply the one with the lowest headline daily rate.
If you are comparing how different airport locations work for car hire, you can also see how other large US airports are set up through Hola Car Rentals landing pages like car hire in Phoenix (PHX) and Dollar car hire in Miami (MIA). Even though the airports differ, the same core checks apply: desk location, opening hours, inclusions, and any local driving considerations.
How to choose between on-airport companies at MCO
Once you know which companies operate at Orlando Airport, the next step is comparing like-for-like. Two quotes can look similar but differ significantly once you account for insurance, deposits, fuel, and optional extras. Here are the decision points that matter most at MCO.
Total price, not just the daily rate
Airport rentals often include facility charges, local taxes, and concession fees. These are normal, but they can make the final bill higher than expected if you are only looking at a base rate. When you compare providers, check what the total includes, such as collision coverage, theft protection, additional driver fees, and any young driver surcharge.
It can also help to consider vehicle class availability. For Orlando, mid-size SUVs and people carriers can sell out quickly in school holiday periods. If you require a specific size due to child seats or luggage, focus on availability and conditions, rather than chasing the lowest rate for a smaller category.
If SUVs are on your shortlist, it is useful to understand typical SUV category policies across airports, such as those outlined for SUV rental at Fort Worth (DFW), because category definitions and luggage expectations can be similar across US locations.
Fuel policy and driving plan
At MCO, you will likely be driving on highways and toll roads, especially if you are heading towards International Drive, Kissimmee, Lake Buena Vista, or beyond to coastal areas. A “full-to-full” fuel policy tends to be simplest, you collect the vehicle with a full tank and return it full. Prepaid fuel can be convenient if you are on an early return flight, but it may not be cost-effective if you return with fuel still in the tank.
Plan where you will refuel near the airport on your return day. Allow time for a final fill-up and for traffic, Orlando can be busy around commuter times and theme park closing times.
Tolls, transponders, and payment options
Central Florida uses a mix of toll roads. Many car hire companies offer toll programmes that allow you to use a transponder and be billed later, sometimes with a daily fee plus tolls. Others require you to pay tolls directly or use “toll-by-plate” systems with administrative charges. Before you leave the car park, ask the counter staff which toll option applies to your agreement and what fees may be added.
If you expect to use toll roads frequently, clarity here matters as much as the rental rate. The most economical approach depends on how many toll segments you will use and whether your routes can reasonably avoid toll roads without adding significant time.
Insurance and deposit expectations
Travellers arriving from the UK often find US insurance terminology confusing. The key is understanding what is included in your rate, what your excess is, and how the deposit is handled. Even when insurance is included, a deposit may still be held on your card. Make sure your payment card has enough available credit for the hold, and that the name matches the main driver.
If you are using third-party insurance or relying on a credit card policy, verify whether it covers US rentals, and whether it excludes certain vehicle types. A small mismatch can lead to last-minute upsells at the counter or, worse, being unable to collect the vehicle.
Hours, after-hours collection, and return process
Most major airport providers operate long hours, but late-night arrivals can still create constraints, especially if your flight is delayed. Confirm desk hours and what happens if you arrive after the scheduled time. Some companies can hold the reservation, others may treat it as a no-show unless you notify them.
For returns, MCO is generally well signposted for “Rental Car Return”. Build in extra time to refuel, locate the correct return lane for your provider, and complete any check-in steps. Keep your final receipt, especially if you are expensing the trip or want to dispute a post-return charge.
Terminal, shuttle, and “on-airport” wording: what it really means
When people ask which car hire companies are at Orlando Airport in Orlando, they often mean “inside the airport complex” rather than “somewhere in the city with a shuttle.” At MCO, many of the best-known brands are on-site, but it is still worth confirming your pick-up instructions because language like “airport” can sometimes include shuttle-served locations.
As a rule, an on-site provider will direct you to the Car Rental Center. An off-airport provider will direct you to a pick-up point for a shuttle bus and may have different opening hours and return procedures. Off-airport options can be cheaper, but they may cost you time, which is a real consideration after a long flight or when travelling with children.
Practical tips for a smoother car hire pick-up at MCO
Having the right preparation makes the collection process faster and reduces the chance of unwanted surprises. Bring your driving licence, passport, and the card you plan to use for the deposit. If you are travelling with multiple drivers, ensure each additional driver has their documents present at pick-up, unless your chosen policy allows later additions.
Inspect the vehicle before leaving. Photograph existing damage, confirm fuel level, and check that key features work, such as lights, indicators, and air conditioning. If you are unfamiliar with the vehicle type, take a minute to locate the fuel cap release and adjust mirrors before you enter heavier traffic.
If you like to compare how major brands and airport desks work across the US, Hola Car Rentals also covers other airport contexts, including National car rental in Philadelphia (PHL) and Dollar car hire in Chicago O’Hare (ORD). The common thread is to focus on desk location, inclusions, and return logistics.
FAQ
Which car rental companies are at Orlando International Airport (MCO)?
Common on-site car hire brands at MCO include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, Thrifty, and Zipcar, with availability varying by season and booking channel.
Are the car hire desks inside the terminal at Orlando Airport?
The main car hire counters are in the on-site Car Rental Center connected to the terminal complex. You typically follow Ground Transportation and Car Rental signs from arrivals.
Do I need a shuttle to pick up a hire car at MCO?
For the major on-site companies, you usually do not need an off-site shuttle. If your confirmation mentions a shuttle pick-up point, your provider may be off-airport even if it says “Orlando Airport”.
What should I compare when choosing a car hire company at Orlando Airport?
Compare the total price including taxes and fees, fuel policy, toll programme costs, included insurance and excess, deposit amount, and desk hours for late arrivals.
How early should I return my hire car at Orlando Airport?
Allow extra time for refuelling, finding the correct return lane, and completing the check-in. Two to three hours before your flight is a common buffer during busy periods.
