Quick Summary:
- Follow signs to Ground Transportation, then go outside to the kerb.
- Look for LAX shuttle signage for off-airport car hire pick-up.
- Have licence, card, booking details, and ID ready before boarding.
- Confirm your provider name and stop, then board the correct shuttle.
Landing at Los Angeles International Airport can feel hectic, especially at Terminal 3 where kerbside traffic and multiple shuttle zones compete for attention. The good news is that reaching your Hola car hire pick-up is straightforward if you know which exits to use, what signs to follow, and what to prepare before you step onto the shuttle. This guide walks you through the process from the moment you leave the aircraft to the moment you arrive at the pick-up location.
If you are arranging car hire at LAX through Hola Car Rentals, it also helps to familiarise yourself with the LAX options ahead of time. The Hola landing page for car hire in Los Angeles (LAX) explains the wider set-up, including common pick-up patterns and what to expect at this airport.
Step 1: Leave the aircraft and head to arrivals
After disembarking at Terminal 3, follow the overhead signs for “Baggage Claim” and “Arrivals”. Terminal 3 is used heavily by domestic services, so you may not have immigration, but you will still need to collect checked bags before going outside. If you only have hand luggage, you can proceed directly down to the arrivals level.
As you walk, take a moment to locate your booking confirmation details on your phone or in print. You do not need to show them inside the terminal, but having them easily accessible helps if you need to confirm the shuttle operator, pick-up instructions, or the provider name used on your reservation.
Step 2: Collect luggage and orient yourself at baggage claim
At baggage claim, check the monitors for your flight number and carousel. While waiting, it is a good time to confirm you have the essentials that car hire staff commonly ask for on arrival. This reduces delays at the shuttle stop and at the counter.
Before you go outside, make sure you have:
Your driving licence, valid and in-date, plus any required supporting permit if applicable.
A payment card in the main driver’s name, typically used for the security deposit.
Photo ID, often a passport for international visitors, or other accepted identification.
Reservation details, confirmation number, and the provider name shown on your booking.
If your group is splitting tasks, decide who will watch the bags, who will find the shuttle stop, and who will keep documents ready. It helps to avoid crowding the kerbside while searching through luggage for IDs.
Step 3: Follow signs to Ground Transportation and exit to the kerb
From Terminal 3 arrivals, follow the airport signs towards “Ground Transportation”. The goal is to get outside to the designated kerbside areas where shuttles and buses pick up passengers. As you approach the doors, you will usually see signage pointing to taxis, ride-shares, public transport, and rental shuttles.
Once outside, pause and look for the shuttle signage that refers to off-airport rental services or rental shuttles. The wording can vary depending on updates at the airport, but the key is to identify the correct shuttle area for your provider. If you are uncertain, ask an airport staff member which stop is used for off-airport rental shuttles from Terminal 3.
Step 4: Identify the correct shuttle signage and stop number
LAX kerbside pick-ups can be busy, and different transport services are separated by signs, poles, or stop numbers. Look for signs that indicate “Rental Car Shuttles” or similar wording, and then check for your specific provider name if it is listed on the signboard or placard.
To avoid boarding the wrong bus, use a quick verification routine:
Check the stop marker, note the number or letter shown.
Confirm the provider name displayed on the shuttle, not just the colour.
Ask the driver whether the bus goes to your exact car hire pick-up location.
Keep your party together so nobody is left behind when boarding begins.
If your reservation is for a larger group vehicle, you may find it helpful to check options such as van rental in California (LAX) beforehand, because larger vehicles can have slightly different counter procedures and may require additional verification at pick-up.
Step 5: What to have ready before boarding the shuttle
Unlike a hotel shuttle, a rental shuttle can involve quick document checks or questions, especially during peak arrival waves. Being prepared speeds everything up and keeps the kerbside moving.
Have these items in your hand, not buried in your bag:
Booking confirmation on your phone, with the provider name visible.
Main driver identification, plus any additional driver ID if required.
Payment card that matches the main driver name.
Contact number on your reservation, in case staff need to reach you.
Also check your luggage count. If you have multiple large bags, stand where the driver can see you loading them, and keep smaller valuables with you inside the shuttle rather than in the luggage hold.
Step 6: Board the shuttle and keep your documents accessible
When the correct shuttle arrives, allow passengers to exit first, then board in an orderly way. If there is a queue, it usually means you are at the right place, but do not assume. Always confirm the destination with the driver. Once aboard, keep your documents accessible because you may want to review the pick-up address, the provider name, or any instructions while en route.
Use the shuttle ride to prepare for the counter process. If you are using a provider that may have loyalty-style queues or different desks, it can be useful to know where the counter is located on arrival. For example, the Hola page for Enterprise car rental in California (LAX) can help you understand typical steps you may encounter at pick-up.
Step 7: Arrive at the car hire pick-up location and proceed to the counter
After the shuttle drops you at the car hire pick-up area, follow signs to the appropriate counter or check-in point. If multiple brands share the same building, look for the exact provider name associated with your booking rather than relying on assumptions. Queue where directed, and keep your party close, as staff may ask questions about additional drivers and vehicle size.
At the counter, you will usually be asked for your driving licence, ID, and a payment card. Staff may also confirm your contact details, rental duration, and any optional extras. If you have special requirements such as a child seat, additional driver, or accessibility needs, mention them early to avoid delays during vehicle allocation.
Common Terminal 3 tips that prevent delays
Do not rush to the first shuttle you see. Terminal 3 has many transport services, and several can look similar when you are tired.
Keep your phone charged. Your booking confirmation and identity checks may be digital, so use a power bank if needed.
Take a quick photo of the stop marker. If you need to return or explain your location, it helps.
Plan for kerbside congestion. At busy times, shuttles can arrive in waves, so stay patient and keep your group together.
If your trip includes driving beyond Los Angeles, it can also be useful to compare airport pick-up processes elsewhere in Southern California. The Hola guide for car rental at Santa Ana (SNA) offers a helpful point of reference, as smaller airports can have simpler kerbside layouts.
FAQ
Where do I exit Terminal 3 to find the shuttle for car hire pick-up?
From arrivals, follow signs to Ground Transportation, then exit to the kerbside. Look for the rental shuttle area and confirm the stop marker before queuing.
How do I know I am boarding the correct shuttle?
Check the provider name on the shuttle signage and ask the driver to confirm the destination. Do not rely on colour alone, as multiple operators can look similar.
What documents should I have ready before boarding?
Keep your driving licence, photo ID, payment card in the main driver’s name, and reservation details accessible. This helps if staff ask for quick verification.
What if I cannot find the right shuttle stop at Terminal 3?
Go back to the nearest Ground Transportation signboard and look for off-airport rental or rental shuttle directions. If unsure, ask an airport staff member which stop your provider uses.
Does pick-up differ if I need a larger vehicle?
It can. Larger vehicles may involve extra verification or specific allocation steps at the counter, so confirm your vehicle category and keep all driver details ready.
