7 Steps for Returning a Rental Car

The process of returning a rental car mirrors that of picking it up, just in reverse. After reviewing the rental agreement, it’s time to plan your return route. Allocate some time for fueling and tidying up. Drive back to where you picked the car up and you’re well on your way home.  

Step 1: Review your rental agreement 

With all that’s happened on your journey away from home, the details of your rental agreement have likely slipped your mind. Before you return your rental car, however, you’ll want to take one more look at it, noting the return dates and times you agreed to. Should you have any questions about these terms, calling the rental car office as soon as possible can help you avoid mishaps and additional charges. 

If you decide you want to stay longer or otherwise change the terms of your rental agreement, a call to the company can help you avoid additional fees. In some cases, it’s best to return the vehicle and simply pick up a new one for a new rental period. However, rental car companies can often extend the rental period by a day or two if that’s the case. You’ll just need to sign an amended or extended contract form to solidify the terms. 

Step 2: Plan your return route

Depending on your destination, you may be far away from the airport or rental car location. Planning your route can help you chart a course back to the rental car lot, including a stop to top off the fuel and clean out any trash. If you need to vacuum the car, you can search for gas stations that have this amenity as well. 

Step 3: Clean and fuel up the rental car 

It can be easy to overlook cleaning and fueling the rental car before you return it. However, it’s one of the most overlooked steps in returning a rental car that can potentially cause you the most stress. After all, some rental car companies charge hundreds of dollars in cleaning fees, on top of any fees you might incur because the car came back without the proper amount of fuel. 

In addition, many people lose valuable personal belongings because they rush back to the airport without going through the vehicle. In your hurry, you might leave your favorite jacket or a car phone charger behind. Some items are certainly replaceable but all of this can be avoided with the proper planning. 

Depending on how much luggage you have, it’s often easiest to leave room in your carry-on bag for personal items you may find in the rental car. This can be particularly helpful if you have to wait to go through the rental car until you’re parked in the rental car return lot. 

Step 4: Take pictures or videos of the rental car 

When you picked up the rental vehicle, you should have looked the car over for any existing scratches, dents, or other damage. Repeat that process before you return the rental car, documenting the vehicle's condition when you relinquished possession. Many people take pictures and even videos of the interior and exterior of the rental car for proof. 

In the best-case scenario, these images and videos can be deleted a few months after you arrive home and the rental car charges clear your bank without issue. Worst case, you have them as evidence to support your case should you get charged for excessive damage.  

Step 5: Return to the rental car lot

Following the signs to the rental car drop-off area can be the most stressful for many people. This is especially true if you’re returning the car to a rental lot at the airport. Most streets are one-way only and turning around isn’t always an option. 

The important thing to remember is to keep your eyes open and drive safely. If you have to make a loop or two, it won’t impact your fuel gauge in the slightest. Follow the signs, and if you do end up in the wrong location, take a moment to ask for directions. You’re likely not the first traveler to wander astray. 

Step 6: Park in the designated drop-off area

The majority of rental car companies clearly post pick-up and drop-off areas. Perhaps it’s because they know travelers are weary and need that extra boost. Follow the signs to the drop-off area and park the rental car accordingly. You might park in a regular parking space or simply pull up to a line of cars that are also being returned at that time. 

Step 7: Check with the attendant and get a receipt 

Each rental car company will have a particular procedure for returning the vehicle. This is also a good time to tell them of any damage or issues with the vehicle. Follow the attendant’s directions and obtain a receipt. 

Rental car lots typically have a shuttle service if they’re not within walking distance of the airport terminal. Depending on how far away from the airport you are, you’ll want to plan for this shuttle service to arrive on time for your journey back home. While most shuttle services run on a schedule, busier airports may have a backlog of customers waiting to be driven to the airport. 

If you are returning your rental car after hours (and the rental car company allows it), an attendant may or may not be there to assist you. In this case, park as close to a security camera as you can. If that’s not possible, a well-lit area works best, such as under a street lamp. 

Once you park the rental vehicle and retrieve your personal belongings, lock it. Find the box or location where after-hours keys are to be placed. Make absolutely certain that you’ve retrieved everything from the vehicle before you relinquish the keys, as most rental car companies do not mail belongings back to you. 

When you boil it down, returning a rental car to the airport is not much different than returning the car to an in-town location. All you have to do is contend with navigating the airport’s roads and ensuring that you arrive at the correct rental car company’s lot. 

Since most travelers drop off their rental cars right before they board a plane, rental car companies often make the check-out process as simple as possible. You may even be able to catch a ride to the terminal if you’re further away than walking distance. 

You can return a rental car early but you may incur additional charges based on the terms of your contract. The rental car company cannot legally rent out the vehicle to another person during the rental period you agreed to, even if the car comes back early. You may also lose out on any deals or special rates if you do not fulfill the requirements regarding the rental period. 

Yes, you can return a rental car after hours. Many rental car locations will incorporate a drop-off box or slot where you can return the keys once your rental is complete. As long as you park the car in the rental company’s lot, lock it, and safely deposit the keys, you shouldn’t run into any issues. However, you are legally responsible for the car until it is checked in the next day, so keep this in mind if you’re considering dropping it off after hours.