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Rent a Car at Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Convenient Car Rental Pick Up at Montego Bay Airport

Renting a car at Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ) is one of the easiest and most flexible ways to explore Jamaica’s north coast and beyond. From pristine beaches to historic towns and scenic drives, having your own car gives you freedom and comfort from the moment you land.

With Final Rentals, you can book your airport car rental online in advance, skip lines, and begin your journey without delay.

Why Rent a Car at Montego Bay Airport?

Montego Bay Airport is the main international gateway in Jamaica and handles flights from North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. 

Public transportation is limited for travelers with luggage, timed tours or busy schedules. Renting a car offers:

Direct travel without waiting: Pick up your car at the airport and go straight to your hotel or destination.

Flexibility: Change plans, visit multiple spots, and travel on your own timetable.

Comfort: Ideal if you have family, luggage, or a long itinerary.

Coverage: Explore beyond Montego Bay — to Negril, Ocho Rios, Kingston, and inland areas.

Car Hire at Montego Bay Airport

Car rental counters and pickup areas are easy to access at Sangster International Airport. After you exit customs and enter the Arrivals Hall, follow the signs for Ground Transportation and Car Rental.

Here’s what to expect:

Pickup Process

  • Complete immigration and collect your luggage

  • Walk into the Arrivals Hall

  • Turn right and follow the signs to the Rental Car / Ground Transportation Hall

  • Visit the Final Rentals desk

  • Present your documents and confirm the rental

  • Proceed to the designated parking area to collect your vehicle

The rental pickup zone is located near the airport exits, clearly marked and well signposted for first-time visitors.

Returning Your Rental Car at MBJ

Returning your car at Montego Bay Airport is also straightforward:

  • Follow airport signs for Car Rental Return

  • Park in the designated Final Rentals return area

  • Confirm fuel level matches your rental agreement

  • Remove your personal items

  • Hand over keys or use a key drop if provided

Allow extra time during peak travel days, such as holidays or weekend departures.

Documents Required to Rent a Car at MBJ

To rent a car at Montego Bay Airport with Final Rentals, you typically need:

  • A valid passport or national ID

  • A valid driver’s license

  • A credit or debit card in the driver’s name

  • Your booking confirmation

Age Requirements

  • Minimum age: Usually 21 years

  • A young driver fee may apply if under 25

  • No maximum age limit if documentation is valid

Always check your booking details for specific requirements before arrival.

Types of Vehicles Available

Final Rentals offers a range of vehicles suitable for different travel needs on Jamaica’s roads:

  • Economy cars – fuel-efficient for city and short trips

  • Compact cars – easy to drive and park

  • Sedans – comfortable for longer drives

  • SUVs – useful for families or luggage

  • Larger vehicles – for groups and more space

Choosing the right vehicle is important based on the number of passengers, luggage, and travel plans.

Fuel Policy and Refueling

Car rentals at Montego Bay Airport use a full-to-full fuel policy:

  • Pick up your car with a full tank

  • Return the car with a full tank

  • Fuel stations are easy to find near the airport and along major highways

Refilling before return ensures you avoid extra refueling charges.

Best Time to Book a Rental Car at MBJ

Montego Bay Airport serves many visitors year-round, but demand rises during:

  • Winter months (December to April) — peak tourism

  • Summer holidays (June to August)

  • Easter and holiday weekends

Booking early ensures more choices and often better pricing.

About Montego Bay Sangster International Airport (MBJ)

Montego Bay Sangster International Airport is the busiest airport in Jamaica and a major Caribbean travel hub. Located in the northwest part of the island, MBJ serves Montego Bay and Jamaica’s popular north coast resort areas. 

  • Airport Name: Sangster International Airport

  • IATA Code: MBJ

  • Location: Montego Bay, St. James, Jamaica

  • Operator: MBJ Airports Limited

  • Official Website: https://www.mbjairport.com

The airport handles international flights from the United States, Canada, Europe, and beyond. 

Airport Contact Details

  • Address: Montego Bay Sangster International Airport, St. James, Jamaica

  • Main Phone: +1 876-952-3124 (Airport operations)

  • Information Desks: Located in the Arrivals Public Area

  • General Assistance: Phone numbers available from airport info and booking counters

Official contact details help you find airport services, report lost luggage, or get travel assistance.

Airport Facilities

Montego Bay Sangster International Airport offers facilities that help make your arrival and rental pickup smoother:

  • Ground Transportation Arrivals Hall: Car rental counters, taxis, shuttles

  • Passenger Lounges: Departure and arrival lounges for comfort

  • Wi-Fi and Communications: Available within terminals

  • Porter Services: Assistance with luggage for a small fee

  • Duty-Free Shopping: Available in the departure lounge

  • Car Parking: Short and long-term public parking near terminals

These amenities help make your airport transition more comfortable before you begin driving.

Driving from Montego Bay Airport

Once you have your rental car, Montego Bay Airport is well connected to Jamaica’s road network.

Popular Routes and Destinations

  • Montego Bay City Centre: ~8 km from the airport — quick drive to hotels, beaches, and city services.

  • Negril: ~80 km west — scenic coastal drive.

  • Ocho Rios: ~120 km east — waterfalls, parks, and attractions.

  • Kingston: ~180 km southeast — capital and cultural hub.

Highways are mostly paved, and route signs are visible, but allow extra time for navigation and local traffic conditions.

Important Driving Rules in Jamaica

Before driving, know the key local rules:

  • Driving side: Left side of the road

  • Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers

  • Mobile phones must be hands-free while driving

  • Speed limits are enforced and marked on road signs

  • Police checkpoints are common

Following local regulations helps avoid fines and keeps your journey safe.

Who Should Rent a Car at Montego Bay Airport?

Renting a car at MBJ is ideal for:

  • Business travelers with tight schedules

  • Families and tourists with luggage

  • Group travelers needing space and comfort

  • Visitors planning multi-stop trips

  • Travelers arriving early or late without waiting for transport

A rental car offers flexibility that other transport options cannot match.

What You Get with Final Rentals

When you rent a car at Montego Bay Airport with Final Rentals, you receive:

  • Airport-based pickup and return

  • Simple online booking before arrival

  • Clear rental terms

  • Well-maintained and reliable vehicles

  • Short and long-term rental options

  • Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Final Rentals focuses on ease, reliability, and traveler support so you can enjoy your Jamaica trip from the moment you land.

FAQs About Car Rental at Montego Bay Sangster Airport

What are the operating hours for car rental counters at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

Car rental services at Montego Bay Sangster Airport are available daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. For those arriving outside these hours, off-site rental options with shuttle service are available. It's advisable to arrange this in advance to ensure a smooth transition from the airport to your rental car.

Where are the car rental counters located at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

Once you exit customs at Montego Bay Sangster Airport, all rental car counters are conveniently located to the right in the terminal building. This makes it easy to locate and begin the rental process immediately upon arrival.

How can I reach the car rental parking lot at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

After finalizing your rental agreement at Montego Bay Sangster Airport, a complimentary shuttle bus will transport you from the car rental counter to the parking lot where your vehicle is located. This service ensures a seamless process from picking up your rental to starting your journey.

What types of cars can I rent at Montego Bay Sangster Airport, and are there age restrictions? 

At Montego Bay Sangster Airport, a wide range of cars, from economy to luxury models, is available for rent. The minimum age for all car groups is 21, and the maximum age limit is 65. Renters aged 21 to 24 may incur an additional fee of $7.50 per day.

What should I know about the fuel policy for rentals at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

Most car rental companies at Montego Bay Sangster Airport operate on a full-to-full fuel policy. You are expected to return the car with a full tank of gas, the same as when it was picked up. Failure to do so will result in charges for the fuel difference plus a 20% service charge.

What are the requirements for using a credit card to rent a car at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

To rent a car at Montego Bay Sangster Airport, a credit card must be presented in the renter’s name, and it must have sufficient available credit for a hold. This hold will cover the deductible amount of any damage waiver selected, plus the cost of the rental. Debit cards and cash are not accepted.

Can additional drivers be added to the rental agreement at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

Yes, additional drivers can be included in your car rental agreement at Montego Bay Sangster Airport. Each additional driver must meet the same rental requirements as the primary driver, and there may be additional fees applicable.

What insurance options are available for car rentals at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

Collision/Loss Damage Waiver (CDW or LDW) is mandatory unless you provide proof of equivalent coverage from your credit card. Renters must present this proof in writing, confirming that the policy includes coverage in Jamaica. Opting for LDW reduces your financial liability in the event of an accident or theft.

What happens if I return the rental car after hours at Montego Bay Sangster Airport?

At Montego Bay Sangster Airport, after-hours returns are possible. Customers can park and lock the car, then place the completed contract and the keys in the designated drop box located in the Returns area. This is especially useful for early-morning or late-night flights.

What are the peak times for car rental at Montego Bay Sangster Airport, and how can I avoid delays?

The busiest times to rent a car at Montego Bay Sangster Airport are from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, especially on Mondays and Tuesdays. To avoid delays, book your car in advance and consider using skip-the-counter options or self-service kiosks provided by some rental companies.