Rent a Car at Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Convenient Car Rental Pick-Up at Keflavík International Airport

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s main international gateway and the arrival point for nearly all overseas travelers. Renting a car at Keflavík International Airport is the most practical way to explore Iceland safely, efficiently, and on your own schedule.

With Final Rentals, travelers can arrange their airport car rental in advance, avoid transport limitations, and start their journey across Iceland immediately after landing.

Why Rent a Car at Keflavík International Airport?

Iceland has limited public transport outside Reykjavik. There are no trains, and buses operate on fixed routes that do not reach many natural attractions.

Renting a car at KEF Airport allows you to:

• Travel directly from the airport to your accommodation

• Visit waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and coastal areas

• Control your travel time without relying on tours

• Reach remote areas not served by buses

• Travel comfortably in changing weather conditions

Location of Keflavík International Airport

• Airport Name: Keflavík International Airport

• Airport Code: IATA: KEF | ICAO: BIKF

• Location: Reykjanesbær, Southwest Iceland

The airport is located about 50 km southwest of Reykjavik, making rental cars the fastest connection to the capital and Ring Road.

Distances from KEF Airport to Major Destinations

Driving from the airport gives direct access to Iceland’s key regions:

• Reykjavik city center: 50 km | 45 minutes

• Blue Lagoon: 23 km | 20 minutes

• Reykjanes Peninsula: 15–40 minutes

• Golden Circle route: 90–150 km | 1.5–2.5 hours

• South Coast (Vik): 220 km | 3 hours

Keflavík International Airport Facilities

Keflavík International Airport is modern and traveler-friendly, offering services that support arriving drivers:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal

• ATMs and currency exchange

• Cafés, restaurants, and duty-free stores

• Tourist information desks

• Short-term and long-term parking

• Clear signage in English

Keflavík International Airport Contact Details

• Address: Keflavíkurflugvöllur, 235 Reykjanesbær, Iceland

• Official Website: https://www.isavia.is

• Airport Operator: Isavia

• Information Desk: Available in the arrivals hall

Official airport services provide accurate guidance for first-time visitors.

Car Rental Pick-Up at KEF Airport

Car rental operations at Keflavík Airport are organized through designated service areas close to the terminal. This ensures a secure and efficient vehicle handover without disrupting airport flow.

With Final Rentals, the process is simple:

• Book your vehicle online before travel

• Receive clear pickup instructions

• Complete arrival procedures

• Collect your vehicle as instructed

• Inspect the car and begin your journey

Vehicle Types Available at Keflavík Airport

Final Rentals offers vehicles suited to Iceland’s terrain and weather:

• Economy cars: Best for city driving and short trips

• Compact cars: Easy handling and fuel efficiency

• Sedans: Comfort for longer highway drives

• SUVs: Suitable for rougher roads and winter travel

• Larger vehicles: Ideal for families and groups

Vehicle choice should match season, route, and passenger needs.

Driving Rules in Iceland

Before leaving KEF Airport, drivers should understand local rules:

• Driving side: Right-hand side

• Headlights: Must be on at all times

• Speed limits:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h

• Gravel roads: 80 km/h

• Paved highways: 90 km/h

• Seat belts: Mandatory for all passengers

• Mobile phones: Hands-free only

Fines for violations are high, and rules are strictly enforced.

Road Conditions and Safety Tips

• Main roads are paved and well-maintained

• Gravel roads are common in rural areas

• Mountain roads may be closed seasonally

• Weather changes quickly—check forecasts daily

• Use caution near sheep and wildlife

In winter, SUVs are recommended due to snow and ice.

Fuel, Parking, and Navigation

• Fuel stations are available in towns and along main routes

• Remote areas may have limited fuel access

• Parking is free in most rural locations

• Paid parking applies in the Reykjavik city center

• GPS or offline maps are strongly recommended

Plan refueling when driving long distances.

Best Time to Book a Car Rental at KEF Airport

Demand increases during:

• June to August: Peak summer travel

• December to March: Northern Lights and winter tourism

Documents Required to Rent a Car in Iceland

Travelers usually need:

• Valid passport

• Valid driving license (held for at least one year)

• Credit card in the driver’s name

• Booking confirmation

Some vehicle categories may have age restrictions.

Why Choose Final Rentals at Keflavík International Airport?

Final Rentals focuses on practical airport travel needs:

• Advance online booking

• Clear rental terms

• Vehicles suitable for Icelandic conditions

• Structured pickup process

• Support during the rental period

How to Book Your Car at Keflavík International Airport?

Visit the Final Rentals website Select Keflavík International Airport (KEF) as the pickup location Choose travel dates and vehicle type Confirm booking and receive instructions Collect your car and start exploring Iceland.

With your rental car ready, Iceland becomes accessible beyond city limits.

FAQs About Keflavík International Airport Car Rentals

What documents do foreign tourists need to rent a car at KEF?

You need a valid driver’s license from your home country and a passport. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for visitors from the US, Canada, the EU, the UK, or Australia. Digital licenses aren’t accepted—carry the original physical license.

Can Icelandic residents rent a car using only a local ID at KEF?

Local renters need a valid Icelandic driver’s license and national ID (kennitala). No passport is required. A credit card in the driver’s name is still needed for the deposit. Insurance terms may differ slightly from tourists.

What are the age requirements to rent a car from Keflavík Airport?

You must be at least 20 years old. Drivers aged 20–24 typically pay a young driver fee (10–20% extra). Most 4x4s or premium models require renters to be 23 or older. Some companies ask for 1+ years of driving experience.

How much does a car rental cost per day at KEF Airport?

Economy cars like the Toyota Aygo or Hyundai i10 start at $35–$50/day in winter, rising to $70–$120/day in summer. 4x4s (e.g., Dacia Duster, Toyota RAV4) cost $80–$180/day. A refundable deposit of $500–$2,000 is standard. Prices include basic insurance but exclude fuel and extras.

Do I need an International Driving Permit at Keflavík Airport?

No—if your license is from the US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, or New Zealand, it’s valid in Iceland for up to 90 days. IDP is only needed for non-English/non-Latin script licenses. Most tourists don’t require it.

What fuel policy applies to rentals picked up at KEF?

“Full-to-full” is standard: you get the car full and must return it full. Fuel is expensive (~$2.20/liter), but stations are plentiful—even in rural areas. Keep your receipt; without it, you’ll pay a 20–30% service fee.

Are automatic cars available at Keflavík International Airport?

Most compact and SUV models offer an automatic transmission. Common automatics include the Volkswagen T-Roc, Skoda Karoq, and Toyota RAV4. They cost 10–20% more than manuals. Availability drops in peak season—reserve early when renting at Keflavík International Airport.

What’s the security deposit for renting at KEF Airport?

A hold of $500–$2,000 is placed on your credit card, based on vehicle type and insurance level. Compact cars require less; 4x4s and campers need more. The hold releases in 5–14 days after return if no damage occurs. Credit cards are mandatory—debit cards rarely work for deposits at Keflavík International Airport car rentals.

Can I drive my rental on F-roads or highland routes from KEF?

Only if you rent a proper 4x4 like a Dacia Duster, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Cruiser—and your agreement allows it. Standard cars (e.g., Toyota Yaris) are not permitted on F-roads. Violating this voids insurance and risks heavy fines. Always confirm off-road eligibility before heading to the highlands.

Are winter tires included with rentals from Keflavík Airport?

Winter tires are mandatory by law from November to April and are included in all rentals during this period. Studded tires are optional (extra cost). Summer tires are used from May–October. 

Is parking easy in Iceland with a rental car?

Most attractions, hotels, and towns offer free or low-cost parking. Even in Reykjavík, paid zones are clearly marked. Avoid parking on private land or blocking roads—fines apply. Never leave your car on glacier lagoon shores or in restricted areas.

What insurance should I get when renting at KEF Airport?

Basic coverage includes third-party and collision, but has high deductibles ($1,000–$3,000). Given Iceland’s gravel roads, wind, and river crossings, CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and Gravel Protection are highly recommended. Sand and ash coverage matters near volcanic zones.

Can I use a debit card to rent a car at Keflavík Airport?

Credit cards are mandatory for the security deposit due to large pre-authorization needs. Debit cards lack sufficient hold capacity and are almost never accepted, even for payment. Visa or Mastercard with enough available credit is essential.

What are the popular rental cars at KEF Airport suitable for Ring Road trips?

Toyota RAV4, Skoda Octavia, and Dacia Duster are ideal for the Ring Road: spacious, reliable, and fuel-efficient. Compact cars like the Hyundai i20 work in summer but lack space for luggage. Avoid tiny cars for multi-day trips. Choosing the right model ensures comfort on Iceland’s long, scenic drives.

What if my flight is delayed—will my rental be held?

Our car rental desks at Keflavík International Airport track flight arrivals. Still, delays of over 90 minutes may require a quick message. As our agent will guide you at the airport to pick up the rental car, they’ll wait with your keys. Just share your flight number during booking to ensure smooth service at Keflavík International Airport.

Is GPS included with rentals from Keflavík Airport?

Most rental cars don’t have built-in navigation. Use Google Maps or Maps.me with offline Iceland maps. Mobile data works well along the Ring Road and the south coast. Buy a local SIM at arrivals for a reliable signal. Digital navigation is essential—road signs can be minimal in remote areas.

What driving rules must tourists know in Iceland?

Drive on the right. Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on open roads. Seat belts are mandatory. Zero alcohol tolerance for drivers under 20; 0.05% for others. Off-road driving is illegal and heavily fined. River crossings require experience—never attempt without a 4x4. 

Should I rent a 4x4 or a compact car from KEF?

Rent a 4x4 (e.g., Dacia Duster, Toyota RAV4) if visiting in winter, the highlands, or the Westfjords. For summer Ring Road trips on paved roads, a compact sedan (e.g., Skoda Scala, Hyundai i30) saves money and fuel.

How far ahead should I book a car at Keflavík International Airport?

Book 2–4 weeks ahead in summer (Jun–Aug) or during holidays—popular models sell out fast. Even in winter, early booking locks in better rates and insurance terms. Last-minute rentals cost 30–50% more or offer limited choice.