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Car Rental at Dusseldorf Airport

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) is Germany’s third-largest airport, located just 8 km north of Düsseldorf city center. Serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, it’s a key gateway to the Rhineland region, North Rhine-Westphalia, and neighboring countries like Belgium and the Netherlands. Renting a car at Düsseldorf Airport gives you the freedom to explore not only Düsseldorf but also Cologne, the Rhine Valley, and beyond.

Tips for renting a car in Dusseldorf Airport

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

Green Motion Car Rental Germany Dusseldorf International Airport 767x767

Driving in Dusseldorf – Rules and Tips You Should Know

 

Driving in Düsseldorf is efficient thanks to Germany’s well-maintained road network. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and all passengers must wear seatbelts. The use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free device.

Speed limits are generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in cities, 100 km/h (62 mph) on rural roads, and on the famous Autobahn, many sections have no general speed limit. However, where posted, limits are strictly enforced, and the recommended speed is 130 km/h (81 mph). Always pay close attention to signs.

Parking in Düsseldorf is mostly paid within the city center. There are designated parking garages, park-and-ride areas, and on-street metered parking. Street parking can be limited, especially in popular districts like Königsallee and the Altstadt (Old Town).

Fuel stations are widely available, including along highways. Most accept debit and credit cards, though some may require PIN-based cards. Germany enforces strict rules on alcohol and driving, with a 0.05% blood alcohol limit (0.0% for novice drivers under 21 or with less than 2 years of driving experience).

Driving from Düsseldorf offers incredible opportunities. Cologne is less than an hour away, the Rhine Valley is famous for castles and vineyards, and you can easily drive into the Netherlands or Belgium for day trips.

Things to Do Near Düsseldorf

Königsallee: Düsseldorf’s famous shopping boulevard.

Altstadt (Old Town): Known as the “longest bar in the world,” with countless pubs and breweries.

Rhine Tower: A landmark with panoramic city views.

Cologne Cathedral: Just under an hour’s drive away, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rhine Valley: A perfect road trip destination with castles, vineyards, and river cruises.

Car Hire at Düsseldorf Airport – Useful Information

Where to pick up your car?

Green Motion Dusseldorf Airport is located at Heltorfer Str. 21, 40472 Dusseldorf. Upon arrival: If you exit through doors 1, 2, or 3 on the arrivals level, please turn right. If you exit through doors 5 or 6, please turn left. Use the elevator located in front of door 4 to go up to the departure level. Once at the departure level, exit through door 10, located next to the POLICE station. A Green Motion staff member will meet you there and escort you to the rental station, which is just a 5-minute drive away and free of charge. To ensure a smooth pickup, please contact us as soon as you have collected your luggage by calling +49 211 176 0 9999 (phone or WhatsApp).

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Euro (EUR)

Nearest Gas Station

Aral Fuel Station, just outside the airport.

Nearest Bus Station

Düsseldorf Central Bus Station (ZOB), about 9 km away.

Nearest Train Station

Düsseldorf Flughafen Station, directly connected to the airport.

Average temperatures

34°F (1°C) in winter to 77°F (25°C) in summer

FAQs About Renting a Car at Düsseldorf Airport

Do I need an International Driving Permit in Germany?

If your license is EU-issued or in English, you can drive without an IDP. Otherwise, it’s recommended.

Are rental cars equipped with winter tires?

Yes, during winter months (November to March), cars are fitted with winter tires as required by law in certain conditions.

Can I drive a rental car to neighboring countries?

Yes, we allow cross-border rentals to countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, and Switzerland. Please always check it with us before-hand!

How long does it take to drive from Düsseldorf Airport to downtown Düsseldorf?

It takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic.

How far is Düsseldorf Airport from Cologne?

Cologne is about 50 km away, roughly a 45–60 minute drive.

Is driving the best way to explore the Rhineland?

Yes, a rental car gives you flexibility to explore castles, vineyards, and scenic towns along the Rhine.