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Find competitive rental car prices at El Paso International Airport (ELP) with Road Genius. Check rates for SUVs, hatchbacks, minivans and make reservations with no booking fees. Compare on-airport desks with off-airport Montana Avenue deals in one quick search and grab wheels that put downtown, Fort Bliss and the I-10 jump to New Mexico within reach.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 533514
Location Pros Cons
ELP Terminal Rental Counter
  • Immediate availability after baggage claim
  • All major rental companies present
  • Extended hours matching flight arrivals
  • Convenient access to rental lot
  • Airport concession fees (approximately 11%)
  • Possible wait times during peak flight arrivals
Off-Airport (Montana Ave)
  • Generally lower base rates
  • No airport fees
  • Some locations less than a mile from airport
  • Transportation required from terminal
  • Limited hours compared to airport counters
  • May have smaller vehicle selection

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at El Paso Airport?

On average, car rentals at El Paso Airport cost around $81 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.

How to save?
  • Compare airport vs. Montana Ave rates. Off-airport spots (1 mile away) dodge the 11% concession fee and can chop ~$100 off a week's rental. Add the $10-$15 rideshare cost and see which total wins.

  • Play with pickup times. Mid-morning or early afternoon arrivals face shorter lines and often lower prices than the 5 pm flight rush when cars get scarce and rates spike.

  • Join the free loyalty program and pre-check-in online. You skip the counter upsell dance and shave 15-20 min off pickup time—which means you can choose a cheaper vehicle class before they're all gone.

  • Downsize when the desert allows. Driving mostly on I-10? An economy or compact will handle it fine and guzzle less gas than an SUV—fuel easily runs $0.30-$0.40/gal higher on airport-side stations.

  • Refuel just off the airport. Hit the Shell or Chevron on Montana Ave/Airways Blvd (5 min away) to avoid the rental company's premium refill charge.

Driving Tips

Airport Parking vs. Rental Return:

  • Rental car return lanes are clearly marked at the airport
  • Follow signs for "Rental Car Return" when approaching the airport
  • Most companies require a full fuel tank upon return
  • Gas stations available on Montana Ave and Airways Blvd near the airport
  • Allow 15-20 minutes for the return process during busy periods

Local Driving Rules:

  • El Paso has a complete hands-free mobile phone ordinance
  • Border Patrol checkpoint on I-10 about 20 miles (32 km) east of El Paso
  • Speed limits on airport access roads are usually 35-45 MPH
  • Right turns on red permitted after a complete stop unless signed otherwise
  • International visitors should keep passports accessible when driving
Why rent a car in El Paso

Book a rental car so you can see:

  • Downtown El Paso – museums, heritage
  • Fort Bliss – museums, installations

  • Las Cruces, New Mexico – markets, wineries

  • White Sands National Park – dunes, scenery

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park – caverns, bats

Driving Distances from El Paso Airport

How much time should I allow for picking up a rental car at ELP?

You should plan for 30–45 minutes to get your rental car during busy times (late afternoon/evening). When it's less busy, you might only need 15–20 minutes. You should add extra time if you haven't filled out your paperwork online beforehand.

Are there any fees specific to ELP Airport car rentals?

Yes. Rental companies at ELP Airport charge an airport concession recovery fee of about 11%. They don't charge this fee at locations outside the airport. This fee is on top of standard taxes and any extra insurance you choose.

Can I return my rental car outside of business hours if I have an early flight?

Yes. All major rental companies at ELP let you return your car after hours. You just need to park in the special return area, fill out the return envelope and drop the keys in the secure box.

Is it worth renting from an off-airport location near ELP to save money?

Yes, you might be able to. Locations on Montana Avenue, about a mile from the airport, could save you over $100 on a week's rental. But remember to add the cost of getting there (a rideshare is about $10–$15) and keep in mind they have shorter business hours.

What's the most efficient way to return a rental car when departing from ELP?

When you get close to the airport, follow the signs for "Rental Car Return." You should plan on 15–20 minutes to return the car and walk back to the terminal. Make sure you have your rental paperwork ready and the gas tank is full so the company doesn't charge you extra.