Car rental Des Moines International Airport
Discover the Turo car rental marketplace
- Car rental
- United States
- Des Moines International Airport
Extraordinary selection
From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget
Liability insurance included
Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans
Easy airport pickup
You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada
Rental cars at Des Moines International Airport DSM
Average daily prices for a 3-day trip
Discover Des Moines International Airport car rental on Turo
Touch down at Des Moines International Airport and slip straight into adventure mode with a car rental near the airport on Turo. With Turo, securing a rental car near Des Moines Airport is easy — book a spacious SUV for trips to vibrant Valley Junction, pick a sleek sedan perfect for evenings in the Court Avenue District, or opt for an electric vehicle and cruise through scenic countryside drives to charming towns like Winterset or Ames.
Des Moines International Airport car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car at Des Moines International Airport is easy. Browse cars online, confirm your pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations at airports across the US, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and airport location in Des Moines, IA (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car for pickup near the airport, or opt for delivery to various destinations, including train stations, hotels, or a custom location.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Des Moines, IA! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Recent reviews
Great host easy access to car and very good running car thanks for the trip
The car was absolutely amazing, if I need to run a vehicle again and it is still available I will be a returning customer. Pick up was super easy. There was a tiny issue with the key and the host made it right by giving me two extra hours to return the car for free. Drop off with super simple.
great clean car easy to access and he was there to help if i had any questions
Great car. Drives smooth and the weather made it even better with the drop top.
The car is clean and works well! Vijay is very communicative and helpful! Will book again next time in Iowa!
I've Rented quite a few time now and every single time it's a wonderful experience!!!
The host was super friendly and responsive! The car is super cute and fun and easy to drive - in very nice condition and super clean. Thank you - will for sure rent from this host again!
Great rental, easy and affordable, will definitely use again when I need my next Des Moines rental!
Picking up near Des Moines International Airport
Pickup & return areas near Des Moines Airport
Forget long waits at the rental counter inside Des Moines Airport. With a car rental Des Moines Airport booked via Turo, your rental vehicle will be waiting conveniently nearby –– often at easy-to-access locations like parking lots along Fleur Drive. Check the Turo app for clear directions on where to find your wheels.
Communicate with your host
After your booking, Turo’s in-app messaging keeps things simple. Connect directly with your host to ask questions throughout your booking to ensure a seamless rental experience. Smooth communication means a quick start to your Des Moines adventures.
Other pickup locations near Des Moines Airport
Looking beyond Des Moines Intl Airport for pickup? Many Turo hosts offer alternative locations in downtown Des Moines, near Drake University, or at hotels close to the Iowa State Capitol. You can easily filter by rental cars available for pickup in your desired location, ensuring a convenient start to your time in Des Moines.
Why choose airport car rental on Turo?
Contactless check-in and checkout
Many hosts offer contactless check-in and checkout, if their car has remote access technology, allowing you to find the car, unlock it, and be on your way without meeting them in person. Message your host for specific instructions.
Convenient car rental pickup and return
Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the rental car at a location near the airport, or get your car delivered straight to your accommodation. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Des Moines car rentals for any occasion
From family celebrations to extended stays, finding the perfect rental car in Des Moines is easy with Turo. Explore a wide selection of rental cars, including everything from compact-sized cars to premium models, all conveniently located near Des Moines International Airport. Whatever the occasion, Turo’s flexible booking options and curated car rental deals make every journey a little more effortless.
Wedding car rental
Whether you're exchanging vows at Rollins Mansion or hosting a garden celebration at Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, the right vehicle can elevate your big day. Choose a sleek sedan for a grand entrance or a spacious SUV to transport your wedding party comfortably. With Turo, booking the perfect wedding car is as smooth as your first dance.
Vacation car rental
Planning a weekend exploring downtown Des Moines, or venturing out to Saylorville Lake or Ledges State Park? With SUVS being ideal for family road trips or romantic getaways, you’ll have no trouble finding a vehicle that fits your adventure. Filter by style, features, or budget to tailor your trip — and discover the right rental car for your next vacation in Des Moines.
Long-term car rental
In town for a work assignment, internship, or extended family visit? A monthly car rental on Turo gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms without worrying about constant renewals. Simply set your rental dates and enjoy the ease of a long-term booking, with hosts who can work with you on convenient pickups, returns, and extensions by business day if needed.
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Skip the car rental counter at Des Moines International Airport
Things to do and places to see in Des Moines, IA
Beyond the tarmac of Des Moines International Airport, Des Moines bursts to life with vibrant markets, lush river trails, and pockets of culture around every corner. Stroll the Des Moines Riverwalk or explore local history at the Salisbury House and Terrace Hill.
Rent the perfect car
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
Right in the heart of downtown, Pappajohn Sculpture Park dazzles visitors with towering contemporary artworks and winding pathways. Roll up in your rental car, then unwind at local favorites like Americana or Centro, both a short walk from the sculptures, for cocktails and Iowa-inspired cuisine.
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Step into lush serenity at the Botanical Garden, where glass-domed conservatories overflow with tropical blooms and exotic greenery. With your own ride, you can pair the visit with a stop at the nearby scenic Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, then wrap up the afternoon sipping handcrafted coffee at Horizon Line Coffee.
Adventureland Park
Adventureland Park promises pulse-pounding rides and classic carnival games just east of the city. Having your own vehicle lets you make spontaneous stops at local eateries like Jethro's BBQ for mouthwatering smoked ribs or Over the Top for award-winning ice cream before heading back into town.
Browse rental cars near Des Moines International Airport by make
Browse rental cars near Des Moines International Airport by category
Top tips for renting a car in Des Moines
Exploring Des Moines by car lets you experience the city beyond typical tourist trails — from the vibrant murals of East Village to the leafy riverside roads lining the Des Moines River. Before setting off from Des Moines Airport, remember these quick pointers for a smooth car rental experience.
How does airport pickup work near Des Moines International Airport?
Ready to collect your airport car rental? Pickup with Turo near Des Moines International Airport typically happens at designated areas close to the airport terminals, such as nearby parking facilities or convenient airport locations along Fleur Drive. Confirm your pickup location at the time of booking for a smooth start to your trip — no waiting in line at traditional car rental companies.
How does drop-off work near Des Moines International Airport?
Returning your car rental near Des Moines Airport is just as simple. Park your vehicle at the location you've agreed upon at the time of booking. Then, all that's left to do is head back to the airport, collect your boarding pass and get ready to jet off to your next destination.
How far is Des Moines International Airport from Downtown Des Moines?
Des Moines International Airport sits just five miles southwest of downtown, typically about a 10-minute drive. Choosing from various vehicle classes, including roomy pickup trucks, helps you swiftly reach local favorites like the East Village or Court Avenue District.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Des Moines?
Exploring Des Moines by car is straightforward, but you'll want to plan around peak traffic hours between 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, especially along I-235, Fleur Drive, and University Avenue. Winter brings snow and icy streets, making standard SUVs or a van rental a smart choice for added traction and confidence behind the wheel.
Speed limits typically run 25 mph in residential neighborhoods and up to 55 mph on highways unless posted otherwise. Seatbelts are required for all passengers, headlights must be used during low-visibility conditions, and texting while driving is prohibited under applicable laws.
What is parking like in Des Moines?
Parking in Des Moines is easy to find, with several conveniently placed options throughout downtown. Central parking garages, including the 5th & Keo Garage and the 3rd & Court Garage, are just a short walk from lively areas like the Court Avenue District. While street parking can be limited during events, parking garages typically offer reliable availability.
Are there toll roads in Des Moines?
Des Moines does not have toll roads, allowing you to drive freely through the city and surrounding areas without the additional charge.
Where can I find gas stations and EV chargers in Des Moines?
Fueling up is simple, with stations conveniently located along Fleur Drive, Merle Hay Road, and East University Avenue. Familiar options like Casey’s, Kum & Go, and QuikTrip make it easy to stop wherever your journey takes you.
For EV renters, Des Moines Airport offers charging stations near the airport terminal, while additional chargers are available in downtown garages and areas like the East Village — ideal if you’re looking for a car rental with sustainability in mind.
Do I need to rent a car in Des Moines?
Renting a car is essential for making the most of your time in Des Moines. Public transit is limited, and having your own vehicle allows you to explore at your own pace — from downtown events to scenic drives out to Ledges State Park, Saylorville Lake, or the covered bridges of Madison County. With a wide range of following vehicle classes on Turo, including everything from standard SUVs to performance sport rentals, it's easy to find the perfect fit for your trip.
What rental car types can I find on Turo in Des Moines?
From the lively streets of downtown to the wide-open highways that stretch across Iowa’s rolling countryside, Des Moines offers endless ways to explore — and Turo helps you match the right vehicle to every journey. Choose from the following vehicle classes to suit your itinerary, including but not limited to:
- SUV rental: Tackle Iowa’s scenic byways with confidence in a Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Outback, ideal for versatility and space.
- Luxury car rental: Cruise to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park or downtown’s best restaurants behind the wheel of a Cadillac XT5 or Audi A5, blending comfort with sophistication.
- Performance sports car rental: Make a statement along Fleur Drive or on a countryside cruise in a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro.
- Sedan rental: Glide through city streets and business meetings alike in comfort, with premium models like the BMW 3 Series or Lexus ES.
- Pickup truck rental: Heading toward the Great Outdoors or hauling extra gear? A Ford F-150 or Ram 1500 is made for Iowa’s flexible, open-road lifestyle.
- Van rental: For group trips, events, or family weekends, a roomy Chrysler Pacifica or Kia Carnival makes traveling together easy and comfortable.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Des Moines?
The cost of car rental in Des Moines can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rentals in Des Moines, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
Frequently asked questions
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
You don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promo codes, discounts, and deals.
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
Yes there is — whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.
See more about promotions & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
At which airports can I pick up my car on Turo?
Turo has agreements and pilot programs in place with a number of airports across the United States, and we’re always working hard to secure arrangements at even more airports to make your transition between air travel and car travel as smooth as possible, no matter what city.
Currently, Turo has agreements with some regional and international airports in at least 24 US states. The group of airports where Turo has airport pickup permits for guests may change, so refer to the link below for an up-to-date list.
List of airport locations* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. Liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.
When a trip is booked in the state of Washington, physical damage to the host’s vehicle is covered by insurance purchased by Turo, but Turo’s insurance does not change the contractual responsibilities of hosts or guests with respect to physical damage to a host’s vehicle.