Quick Answer
For most travelers, the best way to get from DFW Airport to Dallas Love Field is by shared shuttle service (like Go Yellow Checker Shuttle), costing $25-$35 and taking about 45-60 minutes. The cheapest option is public transit (DART/TRE) for $3-$6, but it takes 1.5-2 hours with transfers. A direct taxi or Uber is fastest (25-40 mins) but costs $55-$75.
Door-to-Door Shared Shuttle Service (Best Balance)
Shared shuttle vans offer the optimal blend of convenience, cost, and reliability for transfers between DFW and Love Field. Companies like Go Yellow Checker Shuttle and SuperShuttle (operated by SuperShuttle) provide on-demand and pre-booked rides.
| Provider | Approx. Fare (One-Way) | Travel Time | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Go Yellow Checker Shuttle | $28 - $35 | 45 - 70 min | 24/7 service, online booking, meet & greet at baggage claim. | Most travelers, families, small groups. |
| SuperShuttle Shared Van | $25 - $32 | 50 - 75 min | Shared rides, fixed pricing, accessible vehicles available. | Budget-conscious solo travelers or pairs. |
| Private Shuttle Van | $90 - $120 | 35 - 50 min | Exclusive vehicle, direct route, no other stops. | Groups of 5+, business travel, tight schedules. |
How It Works & Booking Tips
Process: After booking, you'll be instructed to call or check a kiosk upon arrival at DFW. The shuttle coordinates pick-ups from all terminals. Be prepared for a short wait (10-20 mins) and potential additional stops to pick up other passengers before heading to Love Field.
Luggage: Typically includes 1 checked and 1 carry-on per person. Excess or oversized bags may incur a fee ($5-$10).
Pro Tip: Book online in advance for a 10-15% discount and guaranteed availability, especially during holidays or major events. According to the Dallas Love Field official website, shuttle services pick up on the lower level outside baggage claim.
Taxi, Uber, Lyft & Private Car
For direct, point-to-point service, taxis and rideshares are the fastest but most expensive option after private cars.
- Taxi: Available 24/7 at designated stands outside all DFW terminals. The fare to Love Field is metered, averaging $60-$75 plus tip. Use only approved providers like DFW-approved taxi services.
- Uber/Lyft: Pick-up zones are on the upper departure level of all terminals. Fares vary dramatically:
- UberX / Lyft Standard: $45 - $65
- Uber Comfort / Lyft Preferred: $60 - $80
- Uber Black: $110 - $140
- Private Car Service: Companies like Carey offer luxury sedans or SUVs. Prices range from $120-$200+. Ideal for business travel or special occasions.
When to Choose This Option
Consider a taxi or rideshare if: you have heavy luggage, are in a group of 3-4 (splitting the cost), arrive very late/early, or are on a very tight schedule. For predictable pricing with luxury, pre-book a private car.
Public Transit: Train & Bus (Most Economical)
This is the cheapest but most time-consuming and complex method, involving multiple systems.
Step-by-Step Route:
- DFW Terminal Link: Take the free, automated Terminal Link train to Terminal A Station.
- Trinity Railway Express (TRE): Walk to the DFW North Station (adjacent to Terminal B). Take the westbound TRE towards T&P Station. Get off at Victory Station. (Fare: ~$2.50-$5). Check TRE schedules; service is limited on weekends.
- DART Bus: From Victory Station, transfer to DART Bus Route 524 heading to Love Field. Get off at the stop near the airport terminals. (Fare: $2.50).
Total: $5-$7.50, 90-120 minutes. Not recommended with large luggage or during peak heat.
Key Considerations & Alternatives
The DART system does not have a direct rail line to Love Field. An alternative is to take the TRE to Union Station and then a 15-minute Uber/Lyft ($10-$15) to Love Field, saving time and hassle over the bus transfer.
Rental Car (For Extended Stays or Day Trips)
If you plan to explore Dallas-Fort Worth extensively, renting a car at DFW and dropping it off at Love Field (or vice versa) is possible but involves one-way drop fees ($50-$150+). All major rental companies have facilities at both airports. Consider this only if the convenience outweighs the high cost, or if you have a very early return flight from Love Field.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Convenience / Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle (Recommended) | $25 - $35 | 45 - 70 min | Door-to-door, shared ride, pre-booking advised. | Most travelers, best value. |
| Public Transit (DART/TRE) | $3 - $6 (Cheapest) | 90 - 120 min | Multiple transfers, not ideal with luggage, schedule-dependent. | Ultra-budget travelers, no luggage. |
| UberX / Lyft | $45 - $75 | 25 - 50 min (Fastest) | On-demand, price surges, pick-up at designated zones. | Small groups, speed, convenience. |
| Taxi | $60 - $80 | 25 - 50 min | Fixed stands, metered fare, available 24/7. | When rideshare surge is high, immediate need. |
| Rental Car (with drop fee) | $70 - $150+ | 30 - 50 min | Maximum flexibility, but includes rental cost + one-way fee. | Exploring DFW area before/after flight. |
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Luggage Strategy
If you have more than one bag per person, avoid public transit. Shuttle services are luggage-friendly. Consider shipping large items ahead via a service like UPS or FedEx if feasible.
Traffic & Timing
The route (primarily TX-183/I-635) is notoriously congested during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). Always add a 45-60 minute buffer to estimated travel times during these periods. Check real-time traffic on Google Maps or Waze before you depart.
Booking & Payment
Book shuttles in advance online for the best rate. For taxis, have cash and credit cards. Rideshares require the app and a data connection—consider accessing DFW's free Wi-Fi if needed.
Arrival at Love Field
Love Field is smaller than DFW. If you're being dropped off, note that the upper level is for departures and the lower level for arrivals. Allow ample time for DAL's TSA security, which can have lines, especially in the morning.
FAQs: DFW to Dallas Love Field Airport Transfer
Is there a direct train from DFW Airport to Dallas Love Field Airport?
No, there is no direct train service. The most straightforward public transit option involves a combination of the DFW Airport Terminal Link, the Trinity Railway Express (TRE), and a local DART bus, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from DFW to Love Field?
The cheapest option is public transportation (DART bus & TRE commuter rail), costing around $3-$6 total. However, it requires multiple transfers and is not convenient with luggage. The best value for money is a shared shuttle.
How long does a taxi or Uber take from DFW to DAL?
Without traffic, the drive is 25-30 minutes. However, with typical traffic, expect 35-50 minutes. During peak rush hours, it can take 60 minutes or more.
Can I walk between DFW and Love Field airports?
Absolutely not. The airports are about 17 miles apart via major highways. Walking is neither safe nor practical.
What is the best option for early morning or late-night arrivals?
Pre-booked shuttles (some operate 24/7), taxis (available 24/7 at stands), or Uber/Lyft are your only reliable options outside public transit operating hours (which typically end before midnight).
Is there a free shuttle between DFW and Love Field?
No. No airline or airport-operated free shuttle connects the two airports. All transfer services are provided by third-party companies for a fee.
What if I have a lot of luggage?
Opt for a door-to-door shuttle, taxi, or rideshare. Public transit with multiple transfers is very challenging with more than one small bag per person.
Should I allow extra time for this airport transfer?
Yes. Always allow a minimum of 2 to 2.5 hours total transfer time from the moment you land at DFW until you arrive at Love Field, not including check-in time for your next flight. This accounts for deplaning, luggage claim, transportation delays, and traffic.