How to Get to the Rental Car Center from Atlanta Airport (ATL) [2025 Guide]

Putting your travel plan into smooth motion? If you’re landing at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and need to pick up a rental car, this guide lays out every detail—from directions and travel duration to insider tips and real traveler insights.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. From Baggage Claim to the ATL SkyTrain

• Once you’re at baggage claim, follow the “Ground Transportation” signs toward the SkyTrain station at the west end of the domestic terminal.
• Use the W2 exit from the South Terminal or W1 exit from North Terminal; both lead directly to the SkyTrain platform.

2. Board the Alt SkyTrain to the Rental Car Center (RCC)

• The ATL SkyTrain is a free, elevated people mover operating 24/7, linking the Domestic Terminal with the Rental Car Center (RCC) and the Gateway Center Hotels area. Trains arrive every 2 minutes (about every 10 minutes between 11 pm–4 am).
• The ride is quick—about 5 minutes to RCC.

3. At the Rental Car Center

• The RCC houses all major rental agencies under one roof—Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, and more—all operating 24/7.
• Once you step off the SkyTrain, follow the clear signage to reach your rental counter.

Summary Table

Option	Cost	Time	Best For
SkyTrain	Free	~5 min ride	Fastest, easiest connection
Taxi/Rideshare	$10–$20	5–10 min drive	Skip walking, direct drive
Walking	Free	15–20 min walk	Only if really light on luggage

Pro Tips from Travelers

“ATL has the easiest terminal-to-rental-car experience of any major airport… no shuttle buses, just a quick train ride.”
— reddit.com user experience

• Reserve your car online in advance to secure your vehicle and avoid counter lines.
• Check agency hours: Some, like Sixt, close early (around 1 AM) and may leave late arrivals stranded. Choose agencies like Alamo, Enterprise, or National for consistent 24/7 service.

FAQs

Q1: How do I get from ATL airport to the Rental Car Center?
Take the free ATL SkyTrain from the Domestic Terminal—it runs direct and takes about 5 minutes.

Q2: Is there cost to go to the Rental Car Center from the airport?
No—the SkyTrain ride to the Rental Car Center is completely free.

Q3: Which rental car companies are available at the Atlanta Airport RCC?
All major providers are there, including Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, and others, operating 24/7.

Q4: Does the SkyTrain run 24/7?
Yes—the ATL SkyTrain operates 24 hours a day, with trains every 2 minutes most of the time.