Car Rental Charleston International Airport (CHS)

FAQs

What's the minimum age to rent at CHS Airport?

• Most companies require you to be at least 21 years old. They charge an extra fee of about $25 per day for drivers under 25.

Do I need a credit card to rent at CHS?

• Yes, most companies ask for a credit card to hold your security deposit, which is about $300-$400. They might accept a debit card, but you'll have to meet extra conditions.

How long does the rental process take at CHS?

• Plan for it to take 15-30 minutes to get from the counter to your car. The exact time depends on the time of day and if you checked in online.

Can I return my rental outside of business hours?

• Yes, all companies at CHS let you return cars after hours. You just need to park in the special return area and put the keys in the drop box at their counter.

Is there a free shuttle service from the rental car area to the terminal?

• You don't need a shuttle for on-site companies because their rental area connects to the terminal. Dollar and Thrifty offer free shuttles to their location, which is off-site.

What happens if my flight is delayed?

• Rental companies at CHS usually watch for flight arrival times and will hold your car if your flight is late. It's a good idea to give them your flight number when you book.

Do I need special insurance for driving in South Carolina?

• The law in South Carolina says you must have liability coverage. Your own car insurance or credit card might already cover you. If not, you can buy coverage from the rental company.

Are there any roads to avoid around Charleston?

• I-26 gets very crowded during rush hour (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM). On summer weekends, roads to the beaches, like Folly Road and the IOP Connector, can have very heavy traffic.

Can I pick up at CHS and drop off at another location?

• Yes, you can rent a car one way. Most companies will let you drop off the car at other places in South Carolina, like downtown Charleston or Columbia, and some also allow out-of-state drop-offs for an extra charge.

Are EV or hybrid rental options available at CHS?

• Some rental companies at CHS offer hybrid cars, but you'll need to check if they have any available. If you rent an electric car, the airport has charging stations in the parking garage you can use.