Indianapolis International Airport keeps things simple for drivers: the on-site rental car counters and vehicle pickup are all in the Ground Transportation Center (GTC), located on the first floor of the Terminal Garage directly across from the terminal. That means no off-site shuttle buses for the major brands — you walk from baggage claim to the rental counter, sign your paperwork, and pick up the car from the attached garage, all in one building.
If you’re comparing indianapolis airport rental cars, start with this guide to the Rental Car Center, the companies that operate there, and what to expect.
Related IND guides: Ground Transportation at Indianapolis Airport (IND): Taxis, Shuttles & Buses · Uber & Lyft at Indianapolis Airport (IND): Rideshare Pickup Guide · IND Departures Guide: Check-In & Bag Drop
Which Companies Operate On-Site at IND
The following car rental companies offer on-site pickup at the Ground Transportation Center: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Sixt, and Thrifty. Because all nine brands are in the same hall, it’s easy to compare options or walk to a different counter if your reservation has an issue. Off-airport companies, including Airport Van Rental and Payless Car Rental, also serve IND — off-airport customers can call for shuttle pickup just outside the Ground Transportation Center in Zone 1.
Finding the Rental Car Center
After collecting your bags, follow the signs for “Ground Transportation” or “Car Rental” across to the Terminal Garage. The counters are on the first floor of the garage, and your vehicle will be parked in the same structure — no shuttle ride required for on-site brands. When you pick up the car, ask the agent for return instructions before you leave, since return procedures can vary by company. On your departure day, allow extra time to return the vehicle, check in, and clear security.
What to Bring and What to Know
Standard rental requirements apply at IND: a valid driver’s license, a major credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit, and your booking confirmation. If your license isn’t in English, an International Driving Permit may be required. Reserving ahead of time is smart during peak travel periods — including race weekends and major conventions in Indianapolis, when on-site fleets can sell out. Also note that on-airport rentals typically include airport concession and facility fees on top of the base rate, so the counter price may be higher than an off-airport booking.
Driving Away from IND
IND sits right off I-70 at exit 68, and the city is built on an easy grid — downtown is a straight shot east on I-70. From the airport you’re also close to I-465, the beltway that connects I-65, I-69, and I-74, so regional destinations like Bloomington (Indiana University), Muncie (Ball State), and Lafayette (Purdue) are all simple drives. A rental car makes the most sense if you’re staying more than a day or two or traveling beyond downtown, where public transit is limited. If your plans are just a quick downtown trip, compare the rental cost against a taxi or rideshare first.
Make Your IND Journey Easier with AirportGo
AirportGo is built for the whole airport journey — before, during, and after your flight. Before you fly, use the packing checklist and trip tasks to get organized. During your trip, search the directory for gates, food, restrooms, and ATMs, get step-by-step walking navigation through the terminal, check TSA checkpoint times, and set a parking reminder so your spot is saved. After you land, the find-my-car feature uses your saved parking photo and location to walk you back to your vehicle. It even works offline, so a weak airport signal won’t slow you down. The app is available now on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Contact: airportgoofficial@gmail.com