Car rental at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is primarily available at the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), a transportation and rental car center located outside the passenger terminals. Major rental companies have counters and vehicle pickup and return areas at this facility, which is connected to the terminals by the free Airport Transit System (ATS), operating 24 hours a day.
The essentials in 30 seconds- Rental car center: Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), 10255 W. Zemke Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60666.
- Rental counters: located at the MMF, separately from the passenger terminals.
- Access: via the free Airport Transit System (ATS) train from Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, operating 24 hours a day.
- Travel time: approximately 10 minutes from Terminal 1 to the MMF.
- Returns: at each rental company’s designated area within the MMF, following Rental Car Return signs.
- Off-airport companies: some operate outside the airport and provide shuttles from the MMF instead of having counters inside the facility.
Book in advance
During busy travel periods, booking your rental car in advance is recommended. Check the total price, rental agreement conditions, and your company’s operating hours, especially if you plan to pick up your vehicle early in the morning.
Where to Rent a Car at Chicago O’Hare Airport
Major rental car companies operate from the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF), a complex that brings together rental car services and several ground transportation facilities.
The building is located southeast of the intersection of Zemke Boulevard and Mannheim Road, outside the central terminal area.
- Address: 10255 W. Zemke Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60666, United States.
- Rental counters: Inside the Multi-Modal Facility, in designated rental car company areas.
- Vehicle pickup: Company-specific pickup areas within the complex.
- Vehicle return: Areas marked Rental Car Return.
- Access from the terminals: Free Airport Transit System (ATS) train.
- Connected terminals: 1, 2, 3, and 5.
- ATS operating hours: 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The MMF also houses the Economy Parking Lot F and connections to regional transportation services.
The eleven major rental companies located at the MMF can be reached by ATS without taking an additional shuttle bus. Off-airport rental providers use a different transfer procedure.
Important: The Multi-Modal Facility should not be confused with public transportation stations elsewhere at the airport or passenger pickup areas outside the terminals.
How to Reach the Rental Car Facilities
Passengers renting from a company located at the MMF should use the Airport Transit System (ATS), a free automated train connecting the passenger terminals with the rental car center.
From Terminals 1, 2, and 3
After collecting your baggage, follow the signs for Airport Transit System (ATS) or Rental Cars.
- Follow airport signs to the ATS station serving your terminal.
- Use the elevators or escalators to reach the train boarding level.
- Board the ATS toward the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF).
- Get off at the MMF station and follow the signs to the rental car counters.
- Find your rental company’s counter and proceed to the designated vehicle pickup area shown in your reservation.
From Terminal 5
Passengers arriving at Terminal 5, which handles many international flights, can also travel directly to the MMF using the ATS.
After completing immigration and customs procedures, when applicable, and collecting your baggage, follow the signs for the Airport Transit System.
Take the train to the Multi-Modal Facility station and proceed to your rental company’s counter.
There is no need to transfer through Terminals 1, 2, or 3 first.
ATS Operating Hours and Frequency
The Airport Transit System operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Frequency: Approximately every 3 to 5 minutes during peak travel periods.
- Travel time: About 10 minutes between Terminal 1 and the MMF, from one end of the line to the other.
- Fare: Free.
- Accessibility: Stations and trains are accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.
The total time needed to reach your rental counter will depend on your arrival terminal, the walking distance to the ATS station, and the waiting time for the train.
Free Train to the Rental Car CenterFrom Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, follow the Airport Transit System (ATS) signs and get off at Multi-Modal Facility. The train operates around the clock and provides direct access to the major rental car companies.
Car Rental Companies at ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport has eleven major rental car companies operating inside the Multi-Modal Facility, according to the airport’s official directory.
Economy cars, sedans, SUVs, minivans, and other vehicle categories are available depending on the rental company and travel dates.
The phone numbers listed are those published by individual airport branches where a location-specific contact could be verified. Dollar’s phone number comes from the airport’s official directory.
Operating hours vary by company. For example, Avis and Budget advertise 24-hour service, while other companies, including Hertz, Fox, Payless, and SIXT, publish more limited counter hours.
Some providers offer online check-in, expedited pickup, or after-hours returns. Availability depends on the company and reservation terms.
For the official list of rental companies and contact details, visit the Chicago O’Hare official rental car directory.
Check Your Rental Company's HoursAlthough the ATS operates 24 hours a day, not every rental car counter stays open overnight. Confirm your pickup hours and provide your flight number when making your reservation.
Off-Airport Rental Car Companies
In addition to the eleven rental companies located inside the MMF, the official Chicago O’Hare directory lists two off-airport providers:
- ACE Rent A Car: +1 866 551 8267.
- Routes Car Rental: +1 847 671 4000.
Both companies use Bus Bay 1 at the Multi-Modal Facility as the transfer point to their off-airport locations.
How to Reach Off-Airport Rental Companies
- From your arrival terminal, take the free ATS train to the Multi-Modal Facility.
- At the MMF, follow the signs to the bus pickup areas.
- Proceed to Bus Bay 1.
- Use the shuttle service provided by your rental company.
Shuttle operating hours and transfer arrangements depend on the provider.
Accessibility: The airport advises that some off-airport rental companies may not provide accessible shuttle transportation. If you require assistance or accessible transportation, contact your rental company before traveling.
Off-Airport Car RentalsACE and Routes do not operate their main vehicle pickup facilities inside the MMF. They use Bus Bay 1 as their transfer point. Check your reservation’s pickup instructions and shuttle hours to avoid unnecessary delays.
Returning Your Rental Car
Vehicles rented from companies located at the airport are returned to their designated areas inside the Multi-Modal Facility at 10255 W. Zemke Boulevard.
As you approach O’Hare, follow the Rental Car Return signs and your rental company’s instructions.
- Enter the Multi-Modal Facility address or your rental company’s specific return address into your navigation system.
- Follow the signs leading to the rental car facility.
- Proceed to the area marked Rental Car Return.
- Locate your rental company’s designated return area.
- Park the vehicle and complete the return procedure.
- Remove all personal belongings and keep your return receipt.
- Walk to the ATS station to reach your departure terminal.
️ Driving Directions to the Multi-Modal Facility
The MMF is located near Zemke Boulevard and Mannheim Road (US-12/US-45), with connections to Interstate 190 (I-190).
Regional access routes include Exit 2A from I-190 toward Mannheim Road.
Connections are also available from Higgins Road and other roads surrounding the airport.
The exact route will depend on your direction of travel and your rental company’s designated entrance.
Important: Directions to public Economy Parking Lot F or the Kiss ‘n’ Fly passenger drop-off area should not be confused with the rental car return entrances.
Always follow the Rental Car Return signs and your provider’s instructions.
After-Hours Rental Car Returns
Some rental companies allow vehicles to be returned outside regular counter hours.
Confirmed services include:
- Avis: 24-hour vehicle returns.
- Enterprise: Accepts vehicle returns 24 hours a day.
- National: Offers after-hours return arrangements.
- SIXT: Allows 24-hour returns, although its rental counter has specific opening hours.
Return procedures may vary by company and reservation.
Before leaving a vehicle outside regular business hours, check whether you must park in a designated area, hand the keys to an employee, or use a key drop box.
You should also confirm when your responsibility for the vehicle officially ends.
Returning to Your Departure TerminalAfter returning your vehicle at the MMF, take the Airport Transit System (ATS) to your departure terminal. Allow extra time for the transfer, baggage check-in, and airport security screening.
Where to Refuel Before Returning Your Rental Car
Many rental companies offer a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring the vehicle to be returned with the agreed fuel level.
To avoid additional charges, it is advisable to locate a gas station before entering the rental car return facilities.
Gas Stations Near O’Hare
Several gas stations along Mannheim Road, Higgins Road, and Irving Park Road may be convenient for refueling before returning your rental car.
Options include:
- BP: 2995 S. Mannheim Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018. Located along Mannheim Road, near Higgins Road.
- Mobil: 10909 W. Higgins Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018. Near the intersection of Higgins Road and Mannheim Road.
- Shell: 10051 W. Irving Park Road, Schiller Park, IL 60176. An option for travelers approaching the airport from the south.
- BP: 4111 N. Mannheim Road, Schiller Park, IL 60176. Located on Mannheim Road, south of the airport complex.
The most convenient station will depend on your approach route and access to the Multi-Modal Facility. Check the station’s operating hours and directions before making a detour to refuel.
Refuel Before Returning Your CarIf your rental agreement requires a full tank, refuel before entering the rental car center, keep your receipt, and take a photo of the fuel gauge. Check your rental company’s specific fuel policy as well.
Requirements for Renting a Car in Chicago
To rent a vehicle at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, drivers must meet the rental company’s documentation, age, and payment requirements.
Generally, these include:
- Driver’s license: Valid throughout the rental period.
- Passport or identification: Required to verify the driver’s identity.
- Payment method: Must be accepted by the rental company and meet its deposit requirements.
- Minimum age: Depends on the company and vehicle category. Additional charges may apply to drivers under 25.
- Reservation confirmation: Recommended to verify the booked vehicle, pickup hours, and rental conditions.
Drivers with Foreign Licenses
Illinois allows nonresident visitors to drive with a valid license issued by their home country, provided they meet the applicable legal requirements.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) may help clarify the information on a foreign license, but it does not replace the original document.
Illinois does not recognize an International Driving Permit as a standalone driver’s license.
Rental companies may require additional documentation, particularly when a license uses a writing system other than the Latin alphabet.
For example, Enterprise recommends an IDP for certain licenses not written in English and requires an IDP or a professional translation when the license uses a non-Latin alphabet.
Before booking, confirm that your rental company accepts your license and check which documents you need to present.
Minimum Rental Age
The minimum rental age depends on the company and vehicle category.
Enterprise allows standard rentals from age 21 at its ORD location, with a $25 daily surcharge for drivers aged 21 to 24.
Certain vehicle categories are also restricted for these drivers.
These requirements apply specifically to Enterprise and should not be assumed to be identical at every rental company.
Can You Rent a Car with a Debit Card?
Some rental companies accept debit cards, although additional requirements may apply.
These may include:
- A ticketed return travel itinerary.
- Identity and address verification.
- Security deposit holds.
- Restrictions on certain vehicle categories.
Enterprise requires a ticketed return travel itinerary when accepting a debit card at the beginning of an airport rental.
Other rental companies may have different policies.
Before booking, check the accepted payment methods and the required security deposit.
Insurance, Deposits, and Additional Charges
Before renting a car at ORD, review the total rental price and the terms of the agreement.
In addition to the base rate, charges may apply for insurance, security deposits, airport fees, and optional services.
- Security deposit: The company may require a temporary authorization hold or deposit under the rental agreement.
- Damage protection: Review your responsibilities, deductibles, and exclusions.
- Third-party liability: Check the available coverage and applicable conditions.
- Drivers under 25: Daily young-driver surcharges may apply.
- Additional drivers: Some companies charge an extra fee, although exceptions may apply.
- Airport fees: Charges related to the use of airport rental facilities may apply.
- Fuel: Check the refueling policy and any charges for returning the vehicle with less fuel than agreed.
- Tolls: Rental company electronic toll programs may include administrative fees.
- One-way rentals: Returning a vehicle to another city may incur an additional charge.
- Optional equipment: Child safety seats, navigation devices, and other accessories may cost extra.
Check the Final Rental PriceReview the full price breakdown before confirming your reservation. Pay particular attention to insurance, deposits, airport fees, and toll payment programs, as these can significantly affect the total rental cost.
️ Tolls and Driving in Illinois
Illinois has an extensive network of toll roads, so it is important to understand the available payment options before driving a rental car.
Major toll roads in the Chicago area include:
- Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90): A route serving the northwestern metropolitan area.
- Tri-State Tollway (I-294): A corridor used for travel around Chicago and regional connections.
- Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88): Access to Chicago’s western suburbs.
- Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355): A north-south route in the western metropolitan area.
- Illinois Route 390 Tollway: A regional toll road serving the airport corridor and surrounding communities.
I-190 connects O’Hare directly to the regional highway network and should be distinguished from toll road sections where payment is required.
How to Pay Tolls with a Rental Car
Illinois uses electronic toll payment systems such as I-PASS and E-ZPass.
The Illinois Tollway also offers Pay By Plate, which allows drivers to register a license plate and pay eligible tolls without a physical transponder.
This service can be used with rental vehicles.
To use it, drivers must register the vehicle’s license plate, payment details, and rental dates in accordance with the program’s requirements.
Important deadline: Pay By Plate allows drivers to register the required information up to 14 days after the initial trip to avoid unpaid toll penalties.
Processing charges may take up to 30 days.
Some rental companies offer their own electronic toll payment programs, which may include additional administrative fees.
Before using Pay By Plate, check whether your rental company has already activated a toll payment service to avoid duplicate charges or unexpected billing.
Keep in mind that Illinois Tollway’s Pay By Plate does not necessarily cover toll roads operated by other agencies.
For details, visit the official Illinois Tollway Pay By Plate website.
Main Roads and Highways from O’Hare
Chicago O’Hare International Airport connects to an extensive network of highways and regional roads.
- I-190: The main connection from the airport to I-90.
- I-90 (Kennedy Expressway): Access to Downtown Chicago and regional highway connections.
- I-294: Connections to Chicago’s suburbs and other Illinois highway corridors.
- Mannheim Road (US-12/US-45): An important road serving the Multi-Modal Facility area.
- Higgins Road: A local and regional connection near the airport.
Traffic can be heavy on major Chicago-area highways, particularly during rush hours.
️ Is Renting a Car Worth It for Visiting Chicago?
Renting a vehicle can be useful for visiting Chicago’s suburbs, traveling frequently outside the city center, or exploring other destinations in Illinois and neighboring states.
However, if your trip is mainly focused on Downtown Chicago, a rental car may not be necessary.
Destinations Where a Rental Car May Be Useful
Places where having your own vehicle can be convenient include:
- Oak Brook: A business, shopping, and hotel area west of Chicago.
- Schaumburg: A major commercial and business destination in the northwestern suburbs.
- Evanston: A city north of Chicago along Lake Michigan.
- Naperville: A western suburb with shopping, recreational areas, and a popular downtown district.
- Starved Rock State Park: A scenic Illinois destination suitable for a road trip.
- Milwaukee: A city in neighboring Wisconsin accessible by major regional highways.
What If You’re Only Visiting Downtown Chicago?
If your stay is mainly focused on The Loop, River North, the Magnificent Mile, and other central neighborhoods, consider comparing rental car costs with public transportation.
O’Hare has a direct rail connection through the CTA Blue Line, which serves several parts of Chicago without requiring a car.
Parking expenses, traffic restrictions, and possible toll charges should also be considered.
The best option will depend on your itinerary, hotel location, and how frequently you need to travel outside downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Rental at ORD
️ Official Information
For authorized rental car companies, contact numbers, and directions to the rental car center, visit the official Chicago O’Hare rental car information.
You can also consult the official Airport Transit System (ATS) information and the Illinois Tollway Pay By Plate website for toll payment requirements.