The Complete Guide to Getting Dropped Off at Denver International Airport

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Whether you’re getting dropped off by family, rideshare, returning a rental car, or taking the train, each method has specific locations and procedures at DEN.

This guide covers exactly where to go for each transportation option.

I’ll also throw in some insider tips that will help you save time!

Terminal East vs. Terminal West

Denver International Airport uses “Terminal East” and “Terminal West” terms, but these are just the east and west sides of the same Jeppesen Terminal building. You can walk from one side to the other in about 5-8 minutes.

Check your airline’s terminal side: Airlines are split between Terminal East (east side) and Terminal West (west side) for check-in counters and baggage drop. Check your airline’s website, app, or the official DEN website at to confirm which side your airline uses. There are also signs as you approach the airport.

Don’t worry if you end up on the “wrong” side – it’s just a short walk to the other side of the terminal.

Important: All passengers use the same central security checkpoint regardless of which terminal side they enter. The East/West distinction only matters for check-in counters and baggage drop.

Getting Dropped Off by Car

Location: Level 6 (Departure Level)

Two drop-off scenarios:

Quick drop-off (driver stays in car):

  • Use curbside drop-off lanes on Level 6
  • No parking at curb – keep moving
  • Traffic enforcement is strict during peak hours (5-9 AM, 4-7 PM)
  • Pro tip: If you aren’t checking bags and have a mobile boarding pass, get dropped off at Door 602 (farthest end) – it’s right in front of West Security

Driver walking you in:

  • Driver must park in short-term parking garage on Level 4 (Arrivals level)
  • Follow signs for “Arrivals” (not “Departures”) to reach parking
  • Hourly rates apply
  • Located in East or West garage adjacent to terminal

Choose your terminal side:

  • Checking bags: Go to your airline’s terminal side (East or West)
  • Carry-on only: Either side works. Pro tip: Choose the side closest to your preferred security checkpoint based on TSA PreCheck, Clear, etc. Read my Complete Guide to Denver Airport Security (including which checkpoint to use) here.
  • Group travel: For groups, consider getting dropped off in front of Terminal West for easier coordination regardless of airline. West security accommodates all travelers (general screening, TSA PreCheck, TSA PreCheck + Clear), while South security doesn’t accommodate all of these options.
  • Mixed group with different airlines: If anyone is checking bags, go to that airline’s terminal side. If everyone has carry-on only, pick either side.

Navigation: Follow signs for “Departures” and your chosen terminal side

Accessibility and special accommodations:

  • ADA-compliant drop-off zones available on Level 6 near terminal entrances
  • For elderly passengers or those with mobility challenges: Consider using Level 4 short-term parking for closer access to elevators and assistance
  • Wheelchair assistance available – contact your airline in advance or request at curbside

Getting Dropped Off by Rideshare

Location: Level 5 (same level as baggage claim and other ground transportation)

Rideshares have designated zones on both Terminal East and Terminal West sides of Level 5. Follow airport signage to “Rideshare Pickup/Drop-off” after entering the airport.

App tip: Select “Denver International Airport” as your destination. The app will guide your driver to the correct rideshare zone.

Rental Car Return

Location: Off-site rental car facility (not at main terminal)

Process:

  1. Return car at rental facility
  2. Take free shuttle to terminal (runs every 3-5 minutes)
  3. Shuttle drops off at Level 5 (between Departures and Arrivals)

Timing: Allow 15-20 minutes total from rental return to terminal entrance.

Taking the Train

RTD A-Line connects Union Station downtown to DEN Airport.

At the airport: Train arrives at the airport transit center. Take the escalator up and you’re right outside the entrance to South security.

Schedule: Trains run every 15-30 minutes. Check RTD website for current times.

You can read my complete guide to riding the Denver Airport train here.

Quick Reference

Personal car drop-off: Level 6 (Departure Level)
Rideshare drop-off: Level 5 (designated zones)
Rental car: Off-site facility → shuttle to terminal
Train: Airport station → escalator to South security

Terminal side decision:

  • Checking bags → Your airline’s terminal side
  • Need physical boarding pass → Your airline’s terminal side
  • Carry-on only → Either side (choose based on security preference)
  • Group travel → Terminal West (West security accommodates all screening types)
  • Mixed group → Terminal side where someone checks bags, or Terminal West if all carry-on

Peak hours to avoid: 5-9 AM and 4-7 PM for fastest drop-off.

Final Tips

Denver International Airport’s layout becomes intuitive once you understand the basics: it’s one terminal building with east and west sides, and all security ultimately leads to the same place. The key is choosing the right drop-off method and location for your specific situation. When in doubt, Terminal West is usually your safest bet for groups and travelers who want the most flexibility with security options. Safe travels!