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Road Genius makes it easy to find great car rental deals at Phoenix-Mesa Airport (AZA). Compare rates and book in one place. With shorter lines than Sky Harbor and on-site counters from Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz and more, you'll be cruising to Mesa, Gilbert or the Grand Canyon in no time.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 541004
Location Pros Cons
On-Site Terminal Counters • Immediate access upon arrival
• Short walk to rental lot
• No shuttle required
• Limited hours aligned to flight schedules
• After-hours pickup not available
• Possibly fewer vehicle options than PHX
Off-Airport Locations • Possibly lower rates
• May offer different vehicle selection
• Might have extended hours
• Transportation required from airport
• Less convenient for arriving passengers
• May have geographical limitations

Rental Car Facility: All major rental companies have counters directly in the terminal across from baggage claim. After completing paperwork, you'll either walk a short distance or take a quick shuttle to the rental car lot on airport grounds.

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car at Phoenix-Mesa Airport?

On average, car rentals at Phoenix Mesa Airport cost around $94 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $36 per day.

How to pay less?
  • Compare on-airport vs off-airport pick-ups. A quick rideshare to a nearby Mesa or Gilbert branch can shave dollars off the daily rate. Always balance savings with the hassle of getting there.

  • Peak season = book early, off-season = monitor drops. Winter and Spring Training dates sell out fast at AZA, so lock in a free-cancellation deal early then keep checking. June–August heat often brings last-minute price cuts.

  • Tweak your dates. Adding (or removing) a day can trigger cheaper weekly pricing. Even shifting pick-up by a few hours away from Friday/Sunday rush can lower the total.

  • Ditch the extras. Use your phone for GPS, bring your own child seat, and skip toll packages—Arizona has zero toll roads.

  • Fuel up on Power Road before returning. Stations 1–2 miles (2–3 km) from the airport are usually 30–50¢/gal cheaper than the on-site pumps.

  • Minimize extra driver fees. Spouses often ride free, but buddies cost about $10/day. Share the wheel only if you really need to.

Driving Tips

Airport Parking:

  • Short-term and daily spots available at the terminal
  • Economy lots with shuttle service
  • Cell phone waiting lot for picking up arriving passengers

Local Driving Rules:

  • Arizona has no toll roads
  • Right turn permitted on red light after a complete stop (unless signed otherwise)
  • Speed limits: 25-35 mph in residential areas, 45 mph on major streets, 65-75 mph on highways
  • Handheld cell phone use while driving is prohibited statewide
  • HOV (carpool) lanes require 2 or more occupants during rush hours (6-9 AM and 3-7 PM weekdays)
  • All front-seat passengers must wear seat belts
  • Children under 8 years must be in appropriate safety seats
Why rent a car in Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA)

Get a rental car to see:

  • Mesa – arts district, Arizona Museum of Natural History

  • Gilbert – Agritopia, Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch

  • Chandler – tech corridor offices, Downtown Chandler dining

  • Scottsdale – Old Town boutiques, Scottsdale Fashion Square

  • Sedona – Red Rock State Park, Chapel of the Holy Cross

Driving Distances from Phoenix Airport

FAQs

Which rental car companies operate at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport?

You can find major companies like Alamo, National, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, Dollar and Thrifty at AZA. They all have desks right in the terminal.

How does renting at AZA compare to Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)?

At AZA, you'll find it's smaller and less crowded, so you usually wait less time. Getting your car is faster at the rental counter and you don't need to take a separate shuttle like you do at PHX. However, PHX has more rental companies, a bigger choice of cars and stays open all day and night.

Do I need a reservation or can I rent upon arrival?

We strongly suggest you book a car in advance, especially during the busy season (winter and Spring Training). You might be able to rent a car without a booking during slower times, but you'll have fewer cars to choose from and the price will be higher.

What documents do I need to rent a car at AZA?

You need to bring a valid driver's license, a major credit card in your name and your passport if you are visiting from another country. If your license is not in English, most companies will also ask for an International Driving Permit. You usually have to be at least 21 to rent, and you'll pay extra if you are under 25.

Can I return my rental to a different location?

Yes, most companies let you drop the car off at another location in the Phoenix area or even in Las Vegas, but they might charge an extra fee. People often drop off their cars at Phoenix Sky Harbor or in Las Vegas. Just tell the rental company your plans when you book the car.

What happens if my flight arrives late and the rental counter is closed?

If you give the rental company your flight number when you book, they will track your flight and often stay open late for delayed passengers. If you didn't give them your flight info, or if the counter closes anyway, you should call the rental office right away. They might hold your car or set up a pickup at a spot nearby. If not, you'll need to find another way to get to your hotel and can go back the next morning to get the car.