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Finding a rental car in Albuquerque is simple with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers in New Mexico with no reservation fees. Pick up at Albuquerque International Sunport for 24 hour service or choose downtown and off-airport depots for cheaper daily rates. With unlimited mileage on most deals you can cruise the Turquoise Trail to Santa Fe or follow I-40 along Route 66 without watching the odometer.
Albuquerque offers several options for renting a car, each offering different advantages depending on your travel needs.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque International Sunport (Airport) | • All major rental companies present • 24/7 facility • Shuttle buses every 5-10 minutes from terminal |
• Airport fees and surcharges • Potential wait times during peak periods |
| Downtown Albuquerque | • Often lower rates without airport fees • Convenient if staying downtown |
• Limited hours compared to airport • Smaller selection of vehicles • Transportation needed from airport |
| Off-Airport Locations | • Often cheaper rates • May offer promotions not available at airport |
• Limited hours (most close by 5-6pm) • Transportation needed from airport |
On average, car rentals in Albuquerque cost around $70 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $26 per day.
Compare airport vs downtown/off-airport picks – downtown ABQ counters usually dodge the airport concession fee. Even after a $20 rideshare each way you can come out ahead.
Avoid Balloon Fiesta surge pricing – shifting pickup a few days before or after early October, or traveling in shoulder/low season, can cut rates in half.
Play with rental length – sometimes a 7-day "weekly" rate is cheaper than 4-5 days. Run both options in the search box and grab the lower total.
Stick to compact or midsize cars – Albuquerque streets and I-25 are easy driving. Smaller cars cost less to rent and sip less gas on those long New Mexico miles.
Airport Parking:
Downtown Albuquerque:
Old Town Albuquerque:
Driving Regulations:
Rent a car so you can see:
Sandia Peak Tramway – mountain views, trailheads
Petroglyph National Monument – rock carvings, volcanic landscape
Santa Fe – museums, plaza, cuisine
Taos – Rio Grande Gorge, pueblo, art colony
When is the best time to visit Albuquerque?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are great times to visit because you'll find pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. October's Balloon Fiesta is amazing, but you will need to plan ahead for a place to stay and a rental car.
How far in advance should I book my rental car?
For most of the year, you should book 2–4 weeks ahead. If you're coming for the Balloon Fiesta (early October), we recommend you book several months in advance because cars can run out.
Can I drive to Mexico with my rental car?
No, rental companies do not allow you to drive their cars into Mexico. If you want to visit the border, you can park on the U.S. side and then use public transit or walk across.
What documents do I need as an international driver?
You can usually use your driver's license from your home country. However, we recommend getting an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English. You should always carry your passport when you drive.
How reliable is cell phone coverage in New Mexico?
You'll get strong cell service in cities and along major highways. In remote areas, you might find the coverage is limited. We suggest you download offline maps before you travel to rural spots.
What should I do in case of a breakdown?
You should call the rental company's roadside assistance number. You'll find the number in the documents you got when you rented the car. For emergencies, you should dial 911. If you're in a remote area and don't have cell service, stay near your car if it's safe.
Are there any driving restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, rental companies usually don't allow you to drive off-road. You are often allowed to drive on set gravel or dirt roads. You also cannot take most rental cars into Mexico, but the company will usually let you drive to other U.S. states.
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