Enjoy reliable car hire at Keflavik Airport with Hertz. We offer convenient pick-up, a wide selection of vehicles, and hassle-free journeys.
Hertz Car Rental at Keflavik International Airport
Keflavík International Airport is Iceland’s main international gateway, making it the arrival point for most visitors and a practical starting point for exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula and Reykjavík. Unlike the other car rentals in Keflavik town, Hertz Iceland is one of the only four car rental companies you can find in the Iceland international airport arrival hall. You can find your reserved car in the airport car park outside the airport.
With car hire at Keflavík Airport, you can skip the transfer wait and head off on your schedule. Hertz makes car rental at Keflavík International Airport easy, comfortable, and flexible, so your KEF airport car rental feels like a smooth first step to the rest of your trip.
- About 3 miles (5 km) from Keflavik town
- Takes around 10 minutes to reach Njarðvík
- Sits 5.6 miles (9 km)away from Sandgerði
- Blue Lagoon from Keflavik Airport remains 15 miles (24 km) away
Hertz Car Hire at Keflavík International Airport Pickup Location
For Hertz Keflavík Airport, you’ll find our desk at Keflavík International Airport Arrival Hall (KEF), Leifur Eiríksson International Airport, 235 Reykjanesbær, right inside the arrivals hall.
After clearing customs, you can reach us in just a short walk, making Hertz Iceland car rental a simple way to rent a car Iceland airport and get on the road quickly.
Collecting Your Hire Car at Keflavik Airport
Online check-in
With Hertz Iceland, you can take care of key rental details before you arrive, so pickup feels quicker and more convenient from the moment you land. It is a simple way to save time, move through the process more easily, and start your scenic drives from Keflavik Airport with less hassle.
Life is better when your journey starts without the wait. Check in your Hertz Iceland rental here
Faster pickup, more time for your trip
Waiting around after a flight is never ideal. With Hertz Iceland, pickup is designed to feel straightforward and easy, so you can collect your vehicle, get settled in, and head off sooner, whether you are traveling for Stopover travel, a weekend break, or a longer stay. Whether you wish to explore the Reykjavik city center or want to cover the Golden Circle from Keflavik Airport.
Pick-Up Your Hire Car at Keflavík Airport
Hertz Iceland – KEF Airport Rental Desk
✓ Prime Location: Our rental desk is located directly inside the arrivals hall at Keflavík Airport. Skip the shuttle buses and start your journey immediately.
Address: Leifur Eiríksson International Airport (KEF), 235 Reykjanesbaer, Iceland
Phone: +354 522 4430 / +354 522 4400
Email: keflavik@hertz.is
Opening Hours
- Summer (1 May – 30 Nov): Monday – Sunday: 24/7
- Winter (1 Dec – 30 Apr): Monday – Sunday: 05:30 – 02:00
*Opening hours differ on public holidays; please refer to our Google location profile for exact holiday opening times.
Collecting and Returning Your Hire Car at Keflavík Airport
Where is the Hertz Keflavík International Airport (KEF) car hire desk?
You will find our Rental desk INSIDE the KEF airport ARRIVAL hall. Hertz Iceland KEF Airport rental station is located in the arrival hall of Keflavik Airport. Our car rental desk is a 2-minute walk from the Iceland customs clearance exit. When you picked up your luggage from the luggage belt and exit the custom door, you will see Hertz’s rental desk with a Hertz Logo on your left hand side.
To reduce time spent on picking up your car, we advise you to prepare:
- Your reservation confirmation email
- Valid driver’s license (held for a minimum of one year at the time of rental)
- A valid credit card in the main driver’s name
* We DO NOT take any deposit when renting out a car. The credit card information is held only for security purposes.
You car is parked here:
We offer a ZERO excess rental car coverage package at our KEF airport rental desk. If you would like to maximize your rental car’s protection level, you can ask any of our station staff when picking up your vehicle.
We strongly advise you to read our rental requirements and Car protection coverages and Extras: items and price list before renting a car with Hertz Iceland.
Important reminder: When booking a rental car in Iceland, don’t confuse Reykjavik Domestic Airport (RKV) and Keflavik Airport (KEF). The Flight Information Display System (FIDS) often shows your destination in Iceland as “Reykjavik,” the capital of Iceland. Some flight booking websites will also label the KEF airport as Reykjavik Keflavik Intl Airport.
Nonetheless, in almost all cases, your destination in Iceland is actually Keflavik International Airport (KEF), even though it is written as ‘Reykjavik’ on the display board. Please don’t forget to double-check your car pick-up location before booking.
GPS coordinates: 63°59’3.59″ N; -22°36’11.99″ W
Collecting the Car
- Check in at the Hertz desk: Share your booking confirmation, valid driver’s license, passport or ID, and the credit card in the main driver’s name so we can verify your reservation and driver details.
- Confirm your vehicle: We will assign your car and, if available, talk you through any upgrade options that may suit your trip.
- Review payment and rental terms: Complete any remaining payment or deposit requirements, then review the rental agreement before collecting your keys.
- Find and inspect your car: Head to the Keflavik Airport parking area, locate your vehicle, and take a quick look around to note its condition before you set off.
Drive out and follow exit signs: Once you are settled in, simply follow the airport exit signage and begin your journey with confidence.
How to get from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik City Center
After collecting your Hertz car at Keflavík International Airport, you can head toward Reykjavík city center:
- Exit the airport and join Route 41 (Reykjanesbraut), following the signs for Reykjavík. This is the main road linking KEF with the capital.
Stay on Route 41 for most of the drive, then follow local signs for city center / Miðborg as you approach Reykjavík. The journey usually takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.
What cars can I hire from Keflavík International Airport?
Whether you are staying in Reykjavík, heading out for scenic drives, or planning day trips from Keflavik Airport, we offer a fleet that makes it easy to match your car to your plans, luggage, and comfort preferences.
- Economy small cars: A practical, affordable choice for short stays, lighter packing, and easy parking.
- Compact cars: Well-suited to solo travelers or couples who want comfort without taking up extra space on the road.
- Mid-size sedans: A balanced option with more room for passengers and bags, ideal for Kelfavik Airport day trips and longer drives.
- Full-size sedans: A more spacious choice when you want extra comfort for family travel or a relaxed drive.
- SUVs and 4x4s: A 4×4 or an SUV rental at Keflavik Airport is a strong fit for seasonal travel, varied road conditions, and trips where extra confidence behind the wheel matters.
- Electric vehicles: A quieter, more modern way to travel, with options that suit drivers looking for a lower-emission alternative.
- Vans and larger vehicles: Helpful for groups, extra luggage, or anyone who wants to keep everyone traveling together.
Returning your car at Keflavik airport
Our Keflavik airport return station is 300m away from the airport departure. To navigate, you can simply use Google Map and type in: Hertz Return Station – Keflavik International Airport.
If you are still unsure how to get to the return station, you are more than welcome to ask our staff members when you pick up your car, call our service centre during office hours or send us an email. We are more than happy to assist you at all times.
How to Extend your Car Hire Booking at Hertz Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
To extend your booking, call the Keflavík branch or Hertz Iceland support, let our team know at pickup if you think you may need more time.
Availability and any rate changes will depend on your rental dates and vehicle type.
Rental Policies
Before you pick up the keys, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with Hertz Iceland’s rental policies to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Here are some essentials you need to know before hitting Iceland’s roads:
- Driver’s Licence: A valid, physical licence held for a minimum of one year is required. Licences with English/Latin script are accepted as-is. If yours is in a non-English script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required.
- Minimum Age: The minimum rental age is 20 for standard vehicle groups (economy, compact, intermediate). For most other vehicles, it’s 23, and select prestige/luxury models require drivers to be at least 25. There is no maximum age restriction.
- Additional Driver: Extra drivers can be added for a small daily fee. Any undeclared driver who drives the vehicle automatically voids the insurance coverage.
- Payment & Credit Card: A valid physical credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex) in the main driver’s name is required at pickup. Debit cards are accepted under specific conditions.
- One-Way Rentals: One-way rentals are available but subject to a fee and location/vehicle availability restrictions.
- Cancellation Policy: Prepaid bookings cancelled more than 3 days before pickup receive a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days or no-shows are non-refundable. Pay-on-arrival bookings can be cancelled up to the start of the rental.
Your local Iceland self-drive travel tips
- Check conditions before every drive: Iceland’s weather and road conditions can change quickly, so it is worth checking Road.is and SafeTravel before setting off, even for shorter routes from Keflavík.
- Keep your headlights on at all times: In Iceland, headlights must be on day and night. You should also watch the speed limits, which are typically 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on rural gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural roads unless signs say otherwise.
- Choose the right car for your route: A standard car works well for Reykjavík and many main roads, but Highland F-roads require a proper 4×4 and are only open seasonally.
- Plan fuel or charging stops early: Fuel stations are easy to find in towns and along Route 1, but they are more limited in remote areas. Many rural pumps are self-service, so it helps to keep your card ready and top up before longer stretches.
- Slow down on gravel roads and one-lane bridges: Single-lane bridges are common in Iceland, including on major routes. Reduce speed early, stay alert, and give yourself extra space on loose or uneven surfaces.
- Watch for sheep and strong wind: Livestock often wander close to the road, especially in rural areas. In windy conditions, park carefully and hold the car door firmly when getting in or out.
- Stay on marked roads only: Off-road driving is prohibited in Iceland because it can seriously damage the landscape. It can also lead to fines and unnecessary vehicle risk.
Unsure about what is the best car to rent for your Iceland vacation? Don’t know when the best time to visit Iceland is? Let us share with you our thoufhts:
Value-Added Services for Your Iceland Car Hire
When you go for the best car rental at Keflavík International Airport, you can tailor your journey with practical extras that add comfort, protection, and flexibility from the moment you arrive.
Whether you want car rental insurance Iceland options for extra peace of mind, GPS car rental Iceland support for easier route planning, or child seat car hire Iceland extras for family travel, we make it easier to match your rental to your trip.
Available add-ons may include:
- MAXCover: Enjoy an unburdened trip with our all-inclusive package that drops your self-excess to ZERO for covered damages (includes CDW, SCDW, Theft, Gravel, Sand & Ash, Tires, and Glass).
- Theft Protection: Lowers your liability if the vehicle is stolen.
- Child seats and boosters: Helpful for safer family travel.
- Collision Damage Waiver: Reduces your liability for damage to the vehicle.
Explore Nearby Locations within 15 miles from Keflavík Airport
Viking World
- 4 miles from Keflavik International Airport (approx)
- 32 parking spots (approx)
- 3 active charging points nearby (approx)
- Open Thu-Tue, 10 AM to 4 PM
It is a Viking history museum near Njarðvík, best known for the Íslendingur replica Viking ship and exhibitions focused on Viking life and settlement in Iceland. Exploring the Viking World is one of the things to do near Keflavik Airport.
Garðskagi Lighthouses and Folk Museum
- 7.5 miles from Keflavik International Airport (approx)
- 1 parking space (approx)
- 1 active charging points nearby (approx)
- Open, (varies seasonally)
This coastal stop is known for its pair of historic lighthouses, wide ocean views, and a folk and maritime museum that explores local fishing and community history.
Giantess Cave
- 3.1 miles from Keflavik International Airport (approx)
- 130 parking spots (approx)
- 4 active charging points nearby (approx)
- Open, Thu-Tue, 10 AM to 5 PM
Located by the Keflavík marina, it is a quirky folklore attraction built around a giantess from Icelandic children’s stories, making it an easy and family-friendly stop.
Frequently Asked Questions – Keflavík Airport Car Rental
-
-
Where do I pick up my rental car at Keflavík Airport?
You can pick up your car with us inside the arrivals hall at Keflavík International Airport. Hertz is one of the major rental companies located directly within the terminal, and the cars are parked just outside, which makes collection easy after customs and baggage claim. That setup helps you move from the airport to the road without extra transfers.
Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Take full advantage of our Prime Location; because our desk is directly inside the KEF arrivals hall and the cars are parked just steps away, you can skip the shuttle buses and start your road trip immediately.
-
Where do I pick up my rental car at Keflavík Airport?
-
-
What documents should I bring when collecting the car?
Please bring your valid driver’s license, a physical credit card in the main driver’s name, and your booking confirmation. If you shared your flight number when booking, that also helps us hold your vehicle if your flight is delayed. Having everything ready at the desk makes your pickup quicker and more straightforward after arrival.
-
What documents should I bring when collecting the car?
-
-
How old do I need to be to hire a car from Hertz at KEF?
Most vehicles can be rented from age 20, while larger SUVs, vans, and luxury car rentals booked at the Keflavik Airport usually require drivers to be 23 to 25, depending on the category. Hertz Iceland also notes there is no maximum age limit. If you are choosing a larger vehicle for an Iceland road trip, it is worth checking the age requirement for that class before booking.
Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Whether you are 20 renting a compact car or 25 renting a luxury SUV, you are guaranteed a vehicle from our Newer, Reliable Fleet, meaning your car will be under 2 years old and expertly maintained.
-
How old do I need to be to hire a car from Hertz at KEF?
-
-
Do I need an international driving permit in Iceland?
Not always. If your license is valid, printed in the Latin alphabet, and has been held for at least 12 months, it is generally accepted. If your license uses another script, you should bring an International Driving Permit as well. This is one of the most useful details to know before a car rental Iceland airport pickup.
-
Do I need an international driving permit in Iceland?
-
-
What driving rules should I know before leaving Keflavík Airport?
In Iceland, you drive on the right. Headlights must stay on at all times, seat belts are required for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving is only allowed with hands-free equipment. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural gravel roads, and 90 km/h on rural paved roads unless signs say otherwise.
-
What driving rules should I know before leaving Keflavík Airport?
-
-
Do I need a 4×4 rental at Keflavik Airport or winter tyres in Iceland?
For Reykjavík and popular main routes in summer, a 2WD is often enough. In winter, and for more remote travel, a 4×4 is the better choice. F-roads in the Highlands require a 4×4 by law, and driving a non-4×4 vehicle there can void insurance. Hertz also states that winter tyres are included when required seasonally.
Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – Whether you opt for an efficient 2WD or a rugged 4×4, you can explore Iceland with confidence knowing our comprehensive Nationwide Support and premium customer service are always just a phone call away.
-
Do I need a 4×4 rental at Keflavik Airport or winter tyres in Iceland?
-
-
What should I know about fuel and returning the car?
Hertz Iceland operates a full-to-full fuel policy, so you receive the car with a full tank and should return it full unless you bought a prepaid fuel option. At KEF, simply follow the “Car Rental Return” signs near the terminal. The return area is about 250 metres from departures, and the KEF desk serves all scheduled flights.
-
What should I know about fuel and returning the car?
