Parking at LAX Airport

Parking areas, services, rates, and user experience

With 7,000 spaces available across eight parking structures, LAX offers various 24-hour options for short- and long-term stays. These are located in front of the passenger terminal roads.

Photo by Ryan Miller - Unsplash

Passenger drop-off and pick-up

Dropping off passengers: For everyone’s safety, the airport is currently closed to the general public except for ticketed passengers, individuals accompanying or assisting them, and airport personnel. Passengers can be dropped off at terminal upper/departure levels.

Picking up passengers: Passengers can be picked up curbside at the lower/arrivals level, outside the baggage claim area.

What passengers say: Users mention that LAX's pick-up and drop-off areas can be complicated during peak hours due to heavy traffic. Some highlight disorganization in certain sectors where parked vehicles block lanes intended for smooth transit. To avoid chaos, it is recommended to coordinate with drivers during less busy hours or use the LAX-it service for quick connections with ride apps like Uber and Lyft.

Cell Phone Waiting Lot

If you're picking up a passenger, use one of the two free (Cell Phone Waiting Lots), where motorists can wait for up to 2 hours until passengers call to say they are ready to be picked up in the central area. The original lot is located at the northwest corner of 96th Street and Vicksburg Avenue and is open 24/7. The secondary lot is at the northwest corner of 96th Street and Alverstone Avenue, open from 6:00 am to 2:00 am. Vehicles must remain attended at all times.

What passengers say: The Cell Phone Lot is praised as a convenient and free alternative for those waiting for arriving passengers. Positive feedback includes ease of parking and avoiding congestion. However, some users mention that signage for finding this area could be improved. This space allows temporary parking until passengers are ready for pick-up in the main areas.

Central Terminal Area (CTA)

Eight parking structures are located directly across from passenger terminals. Suitable for extended stays and overnight trips.

Note: All vehicles entering the central area are subject to random inspection.

For more information about central area parking, email [email protected] or call +1 310 646 2911.

Rates updated as of December 14, 2024. Values may vary at any time

- 15 minutes: no charge
- First hour or fraction: USD 9.00
- Each 30 minutes after the first hour: USD 7.00
- Maximum per 24-hour period: USD 60.00

What passengers say: Parking in the CTA provides immediate proximity to terminals, making it ideal for those needing quick access. However, users have noted that rates are high compared to other options. Additionally, finding available spaces during peak hours can be challenging, especially during events or peak seasons.

Premium Parking

• 2-3 minutes from terminals
• Located at the arrivals level of P1, P3, and P7
• You can’t park closer
• Premium charging locations for electric vehicles

Rates updated as of December 14, 2024. Values may vary at any time

- 15 minutes: no charge
- First hour or fraction: USD 11.00
- Each 30 minutes after the first hour: USD 9.00
- Maximum per 24-hour period: USD 70.00

What passengers say: Premium Parking is highly valued by those seeking additional convenience, as it offers spaces closer to terminal entrances and greater security. While some travelers consider the cost high, many emphasize the convenience as its main advantage, especially for business trips or early morning flights.

Image from YouTube

Economy Parking

• 15 minutes from terminals
• The lowest rates at LAX
• The best option for long-term parking
• Electric vehicle charging stations available
• Free transportation to and from the central area 24/7. Passenger pick-up zones are located on level 1 of the garage (southeast section) and at the CTA arrivals level, in the pink zones of the LAX Shuttle.
• The shuttle service takes 15 minutes and departs every 7-10 minutes.

Rates updated as of December 14, 2024. Values may vary at any time

- First hour or fraction: USD 8.00
- Each 30 minutes after the first hour: USD 7.00
- Maximum per 24-hour period: USD 35.00

What passengers say: Economy Parking is a popular choice for those looking to save. Users highlight the more affordable rates compared to areas closer to the airport. However, there are comments about waiting times for shuttle services from this parking area to the terminals. Planning extra time is key to avoiding delays.

Valet Parking

• Available at P1, P3, P4, and P7
• 1-2 minutes from terminals
• No need to look for a spot; staff handle parking for you

Rates updated as of December 14, 2024. Values may vary at any time

Maximum rate per 24-hour period: USD 75.00

What passengers say: Valet Parking at LAX is recommended for its convenience and speed, especially for frequent travelers or those with tight schedules. Service experiences have been mixed: while some appreciate the personalized attention, others have mentioned high prices or waiting times when retrieving vehicles. Booking in advance can optimize the experience.

LAX Budget Parking

• Located at 5455 West 111th Street
• Over 2,000 outdoor spaces for extended stays and overnight trips
• Complimentary transportation to the central area every 20-25 minutes, 24/7. Passenger pick-up zones are distributed throughout the lot and at the CTA arrivals level, in the pink zones of the LAX Shuttle.

Rates updated as of December 14, 2024. Values may vary at any time

- First hour or fraction: USD 5.00
- Maximum per 24-hour period: USD 20.00

What passengers say: Budget parking outside the airport receives praise for its competitive rates. Users highlight the efficient shuttle bus transportation to the terminals as a positive point. However, some mention minor issues, such as difficulty finding spaces during high-demand periods. This parking is ideal for long stays.

Electric vehicle charging stations

Below are the locations of electric vehicle charging equipment installed in each garage of the central terminal area (CTA):

- P1: 120 L2, 2 DCFC
- P2A: 55 L2, 1 DCFC
- P2B: 39 L2
- P3: 87 L2, 1 DCFC
- P4: 89 L2, 1 DCFC
- P5: 60 L2
- P6: 114 L2, 1 DCFC
- P7: 186 L2, 2 DCFC

Service fee: USD 2.00 per session plus USD 0.45 per kWh

What passengers say:

• Availability: Some users mention that stations can be busy during peak hours, so it is advisable to plan extra time.
• Location: Stations are conveniently located near main accesses in the Central Terminal Area (CTA), Premium Parking, and Economy Parking.
• Costs: While some travelers praise the free or affordable options, others note that rates could be more competitive, especially in Premium areas.

Useful tip:

Use mobile apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to check real-time availability and locate the nearest station within LAX.

Van Nuys (FlyAway)

• Over 60 minutes to the terminal
• Service to the San Fernando Valley area
• Transportation cost is not included in the reservation price
• Low-cost parking for FlyAway bus users

Rates updated as of December 14, 2024. Values may vary at any time

- FlyAway bus: USD 9.75
- Hourly rate: USD 2.00
- Daily rate: USD 6.00

What passengers say:

• Punctuality: Many travelers praise the service’s punctuality, allowing for quick and reliable connections.
• Comfort: FlyAway buses are equipped with comfortable seating and luggage space, ideal for long trips.
• Cost-effectiveness: Compared to parking or ride-sharing services, FlyAway is considered an economical and efficient option. However, some users have mentioned long wait times during peak hours.

Useful tip:

Purchase tickets online to save time and secure your spot, especially during holidays or peak seasons.

Off-site private parking options (not part of LAX)

Several private parking lots offer complimentary shuttle service to the central area of LAX terminals, with stops on the upper/departure level, marked by red sidewalk pillars.

More information about private parking near LAX can be found HERE.