Des Moines car hire

Driver's age: 26-65

Search hundreds of hire car sites at once for hire car deals in Des Moines

Here is why travellers choose KAYAK

Save up to 38%Compare multiple travel sites with one search

Free to useThere are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your dealsFilter by car type, brand and more. Instantly customise your results.

Book with flexibilityUse our "free cancellation" filter for maximum flexibility at no extra cost.

Cheap car hire in Des Moines

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates
Choose your dates
Economy car
Economy
M
Compact car
Compact
M
Intermediate car
Intermediate
M
Standard car
Standard
M
Full-size car
Full-size
M
Luxury car
Luxury
M
People carrier car
People carrier
M
Passenger van car
Passenger van
M
Commercial car
Commercial
M
Pick-up truck car
Pick-up truck
M

Des Moines car hire experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travellers who hired a car in Des Moines 
cindyMay 2024
It's important to ask the individual if they need help with knowing how to use the car it was foreign to me and thank good a lady who came and helped me. I called her over and she was able to assist me.
JerryOct 2023
Didn't drive in the city, just hopped on the expressway and left area..............
SusanNov 2023
It all went quite smoothly.
claudiaJun 2023
Es muy tranquilo conducir en desmoines, las normas es seguir las reglas y conducir tranquilamente y respetando las normas
JohnJun 2023
This smaller venue make picking up a car fast and easy.
Verified travelerJul 2023
I did very little driving in Des Moines—most if my visit was out of the city

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Des Moines

  • The capital city of Iowa is only waiting to be explored by travelers, and what easier and more convenient way is there to do it than with your own four wheels? Rent a car for your time in Des Moines and discover everything from city attractions to more remote places outside the city, such as the Saylorville Lake, which is about half an hour away by car.
  • When flying into the International Airport of Des Moines, pick up a car from their on-site car hire center to be in the city in less than 15 minutes via Fleur Drive. Located inside the terminal close to the Baggage Claim area, travelers will find various agencies available, such as Avis, Alamo, or National, which offer vehicles in all shapes and sizes.
  • If you’re visiting Iowa during the winter, you may have to prepare for slick and slippery roads due to snow and ice. But good preparation is everything, and driving in the winter is no problem when the hire car has winter tires fixed and even snow chains in the trunk (you may have to rent them separately from the agency). When driving in snow, refrain from braking or accelerating too fast, and bring blankets and warm drinks with you, if possible, in case you get stuck. Also bear in mind that the roads will most likely be narrower due to snow piled up on the sides.
  • Don’t drink and drive during your time in Des Moines. Iowa has very strict drinking laws and hefty fines are enforced if a driver is found behind the wheel with more than 0.08% of alcohol in the blood (BAC). Also try to avoid driving in the daily peak times when traffic is heaviest, usually between 7-9am and 4:30-6pm, as roads can be congested and waiting times will occur.
  • Book your car hire in Des Moines at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Intermediate hire cars in Des Moines are around 20% cheaper than other car types, on average
See more tips

FAQs about hiring a car in Des Moines

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Des Moines?

    A 4-wheel-drive car is definitely a wise choice to make when renting a vehicle for Des Moines, especially in the winter. When venturing out of the city, a 4-wheel-drive will give drivers the essential traction for icy roads or dirt tracks. Talk to your agency about insurance and what is covered, and always check your car beforehand for scratches you did not cause.

  • What’s the speed limit in Des Moines?

    In residential areas, 25 mph is permitted and up to 65 mph on rural roads. On highways, the state of Iowa allows drivers to speed up to 70 mph, but remember to always take the weather and street conditions into account and slow down when necessary.

  • Where are the best places to park in Des Moines?

    There is on-street parking available all throughout Des Moines, with charges around $0.25 to $1.25 per hour, depending on how close to the center you are parked. Fees usually apply Monday to Saturday between 9am and 9pm, and parking is free on Sundays. Parking garages are another alternative, and there are seven garages in and around Downtown, charging an approximate daily limit of $10 or around $1 per hour.

  • How much is the price of fuel in Des Moines?

    The average price of fuel in Des Moines is €3.27 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between €39 and €52, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular car hire in Des Moines?

    Intermediate (Toyota RAV4 or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Des Moines.

  • How can I find car hires near me in Des Moines?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does an Intermediate car hire cost in Des Moines?

    An Intermediate car hire in Des Moines costs €65 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Mini car hire cost in Des Moines?

    A Mini car hire in Des Moines costs €118 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Premium car hire cost in Des Moines?

    A Premium car hire in Des Moines costs €158 per day, on average.

See more FAQs

Des Moines car rental reviews and directory 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car hire booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.1

Best rated

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.1

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.9

Value for money

7.7

3 locations in Des Moines

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines

1545 E Euclid Ave

+1 515 262 2222

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

200 Se 6th St

+1 515 282 8000

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday12:00 - 15:00

5800 Fleur Dr

+1 844 996 0646

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2024

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Staff at service counter was very friendly & helpful.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Standard

KAYAK
They stayed open late so I was able to pick up my rental. Get customer service!!!

2.0 Poor

Jamey, Apr 2024

Supplier choice

KAYAK
Everything was terrible.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jan 2024

Passenger van

KAYAK
Very friendly and helpful check in and return.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Everything can't be rated because I got a phone call from Enterprise telling me that they had overbooked and that I would be on a wait list for a car. That was the last I heard from them.

10.0 Wonderful

Alan, May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Jack at the counter is a wonderful asset to the company. He did a,great job getting us into the vehicle that we wanted.

1 out of 10

Hertz

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.9

Value for money

7.6

2 locations in Des Moines

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines

2800 Mckinley Avenue

Opening times not available

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 256 5848

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:30 - 18:00
Saturday08:30 - 18:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Oscar, Nov 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
Everything was good. From pick up to drop off. Even accommodating a change in location for the drop off.

8.0 Very Good

Anonymous, Dec 2023

Compact

KAYAK
The Hertz team is very laid back and easy to work with. No complaints.

10.0 Wonderful

Susan, Nov 2023

Standard

KAYAK
Great staff at the counter. He helped us find a vehicle that was close by for a frail walker. He answered all of our questions and this was a very pleasant rental car experience.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Great, very smooth process

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, May 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

The vehicle we had reserved had been "given away". We were given an upgrade; however it was not very comfortable. We had reserved a vehicle we knew we would be comfortable in for the long drive. Vehicle was dirty inside - used our own wipes to sanitize. Windshield wipers did not work properly. Was stressful on day 2 of the drive in the rain.

6.0 Okay

Doug, Feb 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was incredibly helpful and friendly, at the airport.

Cons:

The person I spoke to on the phone, after my initial flight was canceled, could not have been less helpful, or more condescending.

1 out of 8

Budget

Cleanliness

6.5

Comfort

7.1

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.5

Value for money

6.4

One location in Des Moines

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 287 2612

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Michael, Oct 2024

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Took an hour in line to get the rental. Counter seemed understaffed.

2.0 Poor

Jill, Sept 2024

Full-size

KAYAK
There was no rental experience with Budget because despite having a confirmed reservation, their counter was closed when I arrived. My flight was delayed getting in. Myself and others had confirmed reservations but the employees left for the evening. Thankfully Hertz was open and had a car for me. Hertz was a great experience.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2022

KAYAK
Absolutely wonderful experience ❤️

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly and helpful

Cons:

Late fees and charges are outrageous as is charges for gas

8.0 Very Good

Alexander, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Car had been smoked in.

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

The budget customer service staff needs to work on their customer service experience. Their behavior is what drives this poor review. If you book a car through any of the travel apps they are not inclined to offer you any information Other than what you received while pre-booking.

1 out of 9

National

10.0

Wonderful

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

10.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

10.0

Value for money

10.0

One location in Des Moines

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Dr

+1 844 816 4384

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

8.8

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

9.0

2 locations in Des Moines

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 877 283 0898

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Lc Pending Close Dec 1st

+1 877 283 0898

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Anonymous, Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

staff was very friendly. Drop off was confusing as it was no longer Thrifty but Hertz

9.6 Wonderful

Dave, Mar 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

The entire experience could not have been easier and more convenient.

1 out of 1

Alamo

8.5

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.6

Value for money

8.2

One location in Des Moines

Show locations

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Dr

+1 844 816 4385

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Aug 2024

People carrier

KAYAK
Liked prompt pick up and easy return. Vehicle was good.

10.0 Wonderful

Babatunde, Jun 2024

Pick-up truck

KAYAK
Excellent customer service and friendly staff. Fast easy check in and check out. New rental that was clean and extra disinfectant wipes provided as a courtesy. Will definitely rent again from Alamo.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was very helpful picking up and returning. Very convenient location in the airport and the cars are right outside the door in the baggage claim area

6.0 Okay

CT, Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Nice sized suv

Cons:

The gas gauge was way off. No horse power.

1 out of 3

Dollar

7.3

Good

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.3

Value for money

7.3

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

Lc Pending Close Dec 1st

+1 866 434 2226

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

No reviews available

Payless

Cleanliness

7.3

Comfort

7.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.1

Value for money

7.0

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 256 5228

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Jerry, Oct 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Gave me the keys and sent me out to the lot. The car was not there, which they didn't believe so they went out and found I was right. Went back to their storage, found a car after while. Wasted a lot of time................

10.0 Wonderful

Renota, Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Thanks y’all are great

7.2 Good

Tax, Sept 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Way too long of a line to pick up the car

Avis

Cleanliness

6.2

Comfort

6.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.2

Value for money

6.6

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Drive

+1 515 256 5623

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Anonymous, Oct 2023

Full-size

KAYAK
Great

8.0 Very Good

Anonymous, Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The service was good. I really liked the car, clean and nearly new. Good experience and better rates than other rental companies.

Cons:

Tried to call the rental location several times and never got someone to answer. Customer service these days is the way to stay ahead of the rest.

American Rent-A-Car

4.5

Cleanliness

7.0

Comfort

5.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

4.7

Value for money

4.5

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

5800 Fleur Rd

+1 515 644 5255

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2023

Compact

KAYAK
I had a reservation and when I got there they told me they didn't have a car for me.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Feb 2023

Full-size

KAYAK
I wasn’t thrilled that they make you give them a positive online review BEFORE you get your car.

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Feb 2023

Compact

KAYAK
Friendly counter staff, but they were making everyone scan a QR code and give them a 5 star review before they would give you a car. Very odd. They also charged way too much for this car but I needed it and they were the only ones with cars. It’s a fine line between charging what the market will bear and price gouging. The car was smaller (and cheesier) than what I ordered. It was like driving a Coke can. Finally, when my plans changed and I needed to return the car early, they would not refund the difference. They cited a paragraph in their contract, which was literally far too small to read. Overall not a good experience.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jan 2023

Compact

KAYAK
I showed up to get my rental car and the office was closed. I could never get the car I reserved.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Aug 2022

KAYAK
Had to wait for an hour at the counter when we dropped off the car because the company only had one employee working and apparently he was on lunch break. Almost missed our flight because of it. Would not book a rental vehicle with this company again.

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Jun 2022

KAYAK
When I arrived at the counter, I was told that I could not rent a car because I had not arrived on an incoming flight. This was never mentioned prior to my arriving to pick up the car. I needed the car for a family emergency, and no other companies had cars available. I will never try to rent from American again. I will also not likely ever use Kayak again.

Airport Van

4.9

Mediocre

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

4410 Merle Hay Road

+1 877 826 4680

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

4.6

Mediocre

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

Des Moines International Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Sunnycars

No score available yet

One location in Des Moines

Locations in Des Moines

Fleure Drive & Army Post Road

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

194 travellers who hired a car in Des Moines gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.8

Car hire locations in or near Des Moines

Good to know

Most popular car type

Intermediate

When to book a car hire in Des Moines

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches

Car hire insurance in Des Moines

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) & Theft Protection Waiver

Some Des Moines car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend always be aware of your coverage when hiring a car in Des Moines.

Deductible

Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a no-deductible option to your Des Moines car hire.

Des Moines car hire information

Pick-up locationDes Moines
Car types
Hire locations17
Airport locations14

Not what you’re looking for? Find thousands of other hotels, flights, car hires and package deals with KAYAK.