Car Rentals at Montréal-Trudeau Airport: A Complete Guide

This guide covers everything you need to know about renting a car at Montréal-Trudeau Airport, including location, directions, required documents, and tips for a seamless pickup experience.

A Traveler's Guide to Car Rentals at Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL)

Welcome to Montréal! For many travelers arriving at Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL), picking up a rental car is the first step to exploring the vibrant city and the beautiful province of Quebec. To make your arrival as smooth as possible, YUL has conveniently consolidated all major on-site car rental agencies into a single, easy-to-access center. This guide provides everything you need to know to navigate the process with confidence.

Finding the YUL Car Rental Center

Unlike many airports where rental counters are scattered, Montréal-Trudeau has centralized all its primary car rental desks in one location. You will find the Car Rental Center on the ground floor (Level 1) of the multi-level parking garage, which is located directly across from the main terminal building. All vehicles are also parked on-site, meaning you won't need to take a shuttle bus to pick up your car after completing the paperwork.

Centralized Location

All major rental agencies in one place

No Shuttle Required

Vehicles parked on-site at the center

Your Path to the Rental Counters: Step-by-Step Directions

Finding the rental center is straightforward from any arrivals area. Just follow the clear overhead signage.

Collect Your Luggage
After deplaning, proceed to the baggage claim area on the Arrivals level of the terminal.
Follow the Signs
Once you have your bags, look for the overhead signs that depict a car key icon and read "Car Rentals / Location d'autos." These signs are prominently displayed throughout the Arrivals Hall.
Exit the Terminal
Follow the signs toward the exit that leads to the multi-level parking garage. You will walk a short distance across a covered pedestrian crosswalk.
Enter the Parking Garage
Once you cross the street, you will enter the ground floor of the parking garage. The well-lit area housing all the car rental counters will be directly in front of you.

On-Site Car Rental Agencies at Montréal-Trudeau Airport

All the major car rental companies at YUL operate from this central facility. You can go directly to the counter for the company you booked with.

Company	Contact Number (YUL Location)
Alamo	(514) 633-4141
Avis	(514) 636-1902
Budget	(514) 636-0052
Dollar	(866) 434-2226
Enterprise	(514) 633-1515
Hertz	(514) 636-9530
National	(514) 633-3011
Thrifty	(866) 434-2226

Tips for a Seamless Car Pickup Experience

A little preparation can save you a lot of time at the counter. Keep these tips in mind for a quick and easy pickup.

Required Documents Checklist:

Have these items ready to present to the rental agent. The primary renter must have all documents in their name.

Valid Driver's License: It must be valid for the entire rental period. International visitors should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country's license, as it is officially recommended for driving in Quebec.

Major Credit Card: The card must be in the name of the primary renter. Debit cards are often not accepted for security deposits.

Passport (for International Travelers): This serves as your primary photo identification.

Reservation Confirmation: Have your confirmation number available, either printed or on your phone.

Quick Reference Summary

For the traveler in a hurry, here are the key takeaways:

Click to view key points

LocationThe Car Rental Center is on the ground floor of the parking garage directly across from the airport terminal.
DirectionsFrom baggage claim, follow the signs for "Car Rentals / Location d'autos."
No ShuttlesAll major companies are in one place, and cars are parked on-site.
DocumentsHave your driver's license, credit card, and reservation number ready.
HoursMost agencies are 24/7, but it's wise to confirm your specific company's hours if arriving late at night.

Vehicle Return Process

When your trip is over, returning your vehicle is just as simple. As you drive back to the airport, follow the road signs for "Rental Car Returns / Retour des voitures de location."These signs will direct you to the designated return area within the same multi-level parking garage where you picked up the car. Be sure to allow adequate time for the return process, vehicle inspection, and your walk back to the terminal for check-in.