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Car Rental at Guadalajara Airport

If you're looking for car rental in Guadalajara Airport, look no further. We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology, with a choice of hire vehicles right across the range, from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give our customers the opportunity to reduce their CO2 emissions.

Tips for renting a car in Guadalajara 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.

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Car Hire at Guadalajara Airport – Good to know about driving a rental car in Guadalajara

 

The drive from Guadalajara International Airport to the city center is approximately 17 km (10.5 miles) and typically takes 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic. The fastest route is usually via Av. Lázaro Cárdenas and Carretera Guadalajara – Chapala (Highway 23).

Driving in Guadalajara gives you freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Mexico drives on the right-hand side of the road. Roads around the airport and in the city are generally paved and in decent condition, but potholes and uneven surfaces are common on smaller or rural routes, so careful attention is needed.

Speed limits are enforced with random police checks and speed bumps (“topes”), which are often unmarked:

Urban areas: typically 40–60 km/h (25–37 mph)

Highways: 90–110 km/h (55–68 mph) depending on the zone

It is mandatory to wear seat belts, and using mobile phones while driving is illegal unless hands-free. Local drivers can be aggressive and spontaneous with turns or stops, so it’s wise to drive defensively. Navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze are recommended for finding the best routes and avoiding congested areas.

Gas stations are full-service (an attendant will fill your tank), and many accept both cash and cards, although having pesos on hand is always wise. It’s also advisable to avoid night driving in remote areas. In the city, traffic can get heavy during morning and late afternoon rush hours.

If you're planning on exploring Tequila, Lake Chapala, or other day-trip destinations, renting a compact car or small SUV is ideal for city and highway use.

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Travel Destinations from Guadalajara by Car

 

Renting a car in Guadalajara opens up access to incredible day trips and scenic routes:

Tequila – ~1 hour northwest, home of the famous spirit and scenic agave fields (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Lake Chapala – ~50 minutes south, Mexico’s largest freshwater lake and a haven for expats

Tlaquepaque & Tonalá – 20–30 minutes from the city, known for artisan markets and traditional crafts

Tapalpa – ~2.5 hours southwest, a charming mountain village with pine forests

Mazamitla – ~2 hours drive, another beautiful Pueblo Mágico nestled in the Sierra del Tigre mountains

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, having a rental car in Guadalajara gives you the freedom to experience authentic Jalisco beyond the city limits.

Useful Information about renting a car at Guadalajara Airport

Where to pick up your car?

Our office is located outside of the airport. If you have a reservation, when you arrive, collect your luggage and head to the arrivals exit. Please dial Tel +52 33 3642 41 80 and Green Motion staff will pick you up from our office which is only 5 kms away.

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Nearest Gas Station

Pemex Gas Station – located just a few minutes from the airport on Carretera Guadalajara – Chapala

Nearest Bus Station

Central de Autobuses GDL – ~5 minutes away by car

Nearest Train Station

Guadalajara light rail does not reach the airport, but the closest station is Tetlán, ~20 minutes away by car

Average temperatures

25°C (77°F) - 33°C (91°F)

FAQs – Driving & Renting a Car at Guadalajara Airport

How long does it take to drive from the Guadalajara airport to the city center?

The average drive is 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.

Is driving in Guadalajara safe for tourists?

Yes, generally safe if you stay alert and avoid night driving in rural areas. Roads are well-used by tourists and locals alike.

What kind of car should I rent at Guadalajara Airport?

A compact car works well for city driving. A small SUV is a good choice if you plan on exploring outer areas like Tequila or Lake Chapala.

Can I pay for gas with a card in Mexico?

Yes, most stations accept credit cards, but carrying Mexican pesos is still recommended, especially for tipping attendants.

Is it easy to park in Guadalajara?

Yes, especially in commercial and hotel areas. Parking garages are common in the city center. Use caution when parking on the street and avoid leaving valuables in the car.

Do I need an international driver’s license?

Tourists from the U.S., Canada, and most European countries can use their regular driver’s license. Always check with your rental agency for specific requirements.

Is GPS reliable in Guadalajara?

Yes, and it's strongly recommended to use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze due to traffic patterns and road conditions.