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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Find lower rental car prices at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) with Road Genius. Find live rates for SUVs, hatchbacks, passenger vans and reserve with no booking fees. Compare on-airport and nearby off-airport deals in seconds and book a car early for peak January–April travel so you can cruise to Siesta Key or downtown Sarasota without the wait.
SRQ Airport offers both on-site and nearby car rental options.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| On-site Rental Center | • Immediate access via walkway • Multiple major companies • Convenient hours • No shuttle needed |
• Airport surcharges • Possible wait times during peak season • Higher rates than off-airport locations |
| Off-airport nearby | • Usually lower rates • Avoid some airport fees • Similar vehicle selection |
• Requires shuttle transportation • Extra time needed (10-15 minutes) • May have more limited hours |
| Downtown Sarasota | • No airport fees • Possibly lower rates |
• Requires transportation from airport • Not practical for most airport arrivals • Limited hours compared to airport |
On average, car rentals at Sarasota Airport cost around $62 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $19 per day.
Check on-airport vs off-airport rates. Off-airport spots near SRQ skip some terminal fees and can be 10–15 % cheaper. Factor in the 10-min shuttle ride to see if the savings are worth it.
Peak season (Jan–Apr)? Lock in a cancelable booking 2–3 months out, then keep scanning and rebook if prices drop. Summer and fall dates usually stay cheap until a couple of weeks before arrival.
Price out weekly vs daily. For 5-plus day trips a weekly rate often beats five dailies by 15-20 %. Run both options in the search and grab the lower total.
Filter for late-return locations if your flight is dawn or midnight. Counters with 24-hr key drops save you paying an extra day just because the office is closed.
Fuel up on US-41 before the airport. Gas stations 2–3 miles south are up to 40 ¢/gal cheaper than the airport pumps and beat any prepaid fuel deal.
Mind the add-ons. Spouses usually ride free at SRQ but friends don't. Under-25 fees vary by more than $10/day, so compare suppliers if you're a younger driver.
Airport Parking:
Local Driving Rules:
Traffic Enforcement:
Get a rental car so you can drive to:
Siesta Key – beaches, village shops
Longboat Key – golf courses, dining
Anna Maria Island – piers, galleries
Myakka River State Park – wildlife, canopy walkway
How long does it take to pick up a rental car at SRQ Airport?
During quieter times, you can usually pick up your car in 10-15 minutes. In the busy season (January to April), plan on it taking 20-30 minutes from the time you walk in until you drive away, especially if several flights land at the same time.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car at SRQ?
If your driver's license is not in English, you should bring an International Driving Permit (or an official translation) plus your original license. You generally don't need an IDP if your license is already in English.
What documents are required to rent a car at SRQ Airport?
You'll need a valid driver's license and a major credit card in your name. You usually don't need to show proof of insurance, but bring the paperwork for it if you plan to use your own coverage. International visitors should also have their passport and IDP if they need one.
Is there a way to expedite the rental car pickup process?
Yes, you can join the rental company's loyalty program for faster service. Many companies also let you check in online, which lets you finish the paperwork before you get to the airport.
What is the best time of year to rent a car at SRQ Airport?
To get both nice weather and good prices, think about renting during the shoulder seasons (April–May or October–November). Rental prices are lower than during the winter peak and the weather is still pleasant.
Are there any fees specific to renting from SRQ Airport?
Yes, when you rent from the airport, you have to pay extra fees. These include airport concession recovery fees and customer facility charges, which add about 10-15% to the rental price.
Can I return my rental car with a full tank of gas?
Yes, most rental companies ask you to return the car with the same amount of fuel it had when you picked it up (usually a full tank). You can find several gas stations on US-41 within 5 miles of the airport.
What happens if my flight is delayed and the rental counter is closed?
Most major rental companies at SRQ track arriving flights and will stay open for you if your plane is late. If you expect to be very late, it's a good idea to call the rental company beforehand to confirm they will wait.
Is it easy to return a rental car at SRQ Airport?
Yes, just follow the signs for "Rental Car Return" as you get close to the airport. The signs are easy to see, and returning your car usually takes less time here than at larger airports.
What should I know about driving to Siesta Key or other beaches?
During the busy season, parking lots at the beaches fill up fast, especially at Siesta Key. You should plan to get there early (before 10 a.m.) or go later in the afternoon. Also, expect that you may have to wait for drawbridges on your way to the islands.
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