Getting to the Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you’re flying in or out of Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and need a car, you’ll pick it up at the Rental Car Center (RCC). It’s not inside the main terminal, but it’s directly connected by a dedicated SkyTrain and clearly signed once you know what to look for.

This guide explains exactly how to get to the Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center whether you’re:

  • Landing at ATL and heading to pick up a car
  • Dropping off a rental before a flight
  • Being dropped off or picked up by a friend, taxi, or rideshare
  • Driving yourself from somewhere in metro Atlanta

Key Details About the Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center

Location:
Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center
2200 Rental Car Center Parkway
College Park, GA 30337

Connected to: Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport via the ATL SkyTrain

Hours: Most major rental counters operate daily, generally from early morning to late at night. Exact hours vary by company.

Major rental brands: Most of the big national rental car companies are located here, each with its own counter and parking area.

How to Get to the Rental Car Center When You Land at ATL

If you’re arriving on a flight, your route depends on whether you land at the Domestic Terminal or the International Terminal (Concourse F).

From the Domestic Terminal (North or South)

  1. Follow the “Rental Car Center” and “ATL SkyTrain” signs
    After you leave your gate and reach the main terminal area, look for overhead signs with wording like:

    • “Rental Car Center”
    • “ATL SkyTrain” These will point you toward baggage claim and then the SkyTrain.
  2. Pick up your checked luggage

    • Go to the appropriate baggage claim area (North or South) based on your airline.
    • Grab your bags before heading to the SkyTrain.
  3. Walk to the ATL SkyTrain station
    After baggage claim:

    • Keep following signs for “Rental Car Center / ATL SkyTrain”.
    • You’ll walk along indoor corridors and may go up an escalator or elevator.
    • The SkyTrain station is located just outside the Domestic Terminal, connected by a short walkway.
  4. Board the ATL SkyTrain

    • The ATL SkyTrain is free, fully automated, and runs continuously.
    • Trains arrive every few minutes.
    • Look for the platform labeled “Rental Car Center”.
  5. Ride the SkyTrain to the Rental Car Center

    • The ride typically takes around 5 minutes.
    • You’ll pass an intermediate stop for the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC) and nearby hotels; stay on until you hear or see “Rental Car Center”.
  6. Exit at the Rental Car Center station

    • Follow the signs to the Rental Car Center building, which is directly connected to the station by a short, covered walkway.
    • Inside, look for overhead signs pointing to your rental car company’s counter.
  7. Go to your rental counter and parking area

    • Each company has a counter area for paperwork and a parking deck section where you pick up your vehicle.
    • Signs and digital boards will direct you, and staff are usually stationed along the way to guide you.

From the International Terminal (Concourse F)

The International Terminal is separate from the Domestic Terminal and the main SkyTrain station. You’ll need to connect over before you can ride to the Rental Car Center.

You have two main options:

Option 1: Airport Shuttle from International Terminal to Rental Car Center

  1. Clear passport control and collect your luggage
    After arriving at Concourse F, go through immigration (if applicable) and baggage claim.

  2. Follow signs for “Rental Cars” or “Ground Transportation”
    These will lead you out toward the ground transportation area for shuttles and buses.

  3. Look for the Rental Car Center shuttle

    • There is usually a designated shuttle that runs between the International Terminal and the Rental Car Center.
    • Confirm with airport staff if you’re unsure which bus to board.
  4. Ride the shuttle directly to the Rental Car Center

    • The shuttle is free and typically runs on a regular schedule.
    • The ride usually takes several minutes, depending on traffic around the airport loop.
  5. Enter the Rental Car Center building

    • Once you arrive, follow the signs to the main rental car lobby and then to your company’s counter.

Option 2: International Terminal to Domestic Terminal, Then SkyTrain

If you prefer to use the SkyTrain, or based on current operations:

  1. Take the airport shuttle from International Terminal to the Domestic Terminal

    • Follow signs for the Domestic Terminal shuttle.
    • The shuttle ride is free and takes you to the Domestic Terminal ground transportation area.
  2. Walk to the ATL SkyTrain station

    • Once at the Domestic Terminal, follow the signs for “Rental Car Center / ATL SkyTrain”.
    • Enter the SkyTrain station via escalator or elevator.
  3. Board the SkyTrain and ride to the Rental Car Center

    • Take the train toward “Rental Car Center”.
    • Ride for a few minutes, then exit at the RCC stop and walk into the building.

Getting to the Rental Car Center From Around Metro Atlanta

If you’re not flying and just need to pick up or drop off a rental, you can go directly to the Rental Car Center by car, rideshare, taxi, or MARTA.

Driving Yourself

Use this address in your GPS:

Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center
2200 Rental Car Center Parkway
College Park, GA 30337

General driving approach:

  • From I‑75/I‑85, follow signs for Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
  • Approach the Domestic Terminal area and watch closely for “Rental Car Center” signs.
  • You’ll exit onto Rental Car Center Parkway, which leads directly to the facility and the rental car parking decks.

Once you arrive, follow posted signs to:

  • Return areas if you’re bringing a car back
  • Visitor / customer parking (if available) if you’re being picked up inside

Rideshare or Taxi

If you’re coming from anywhere in metro Atlanta via Uber, Lyft, or traditional taxi:

  • Set your destination to “Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center” or the street address.
  • Tell your driver you’re going directly to the Rental Car Center, not the main terminal.
  • You’ll be dropped off near the main entrance to the RCC, where you can walk directly into the lobby.

This is often simpler than going to the terminal first, especially if you’re renting a car without flying.

MARTA (Public Transit) + SkyTrain

If you’re using MARTA rail:

  1. Take MARTA to Airport Station

    • Ride any southbound train line to the Airport Station, which is located inside the Domestic Terminal.
  2. Exit the station into the Domestic Terminal

    • Follow signs up the escalators or elevators into the main terminal area.
  3. Follow signs for “Rental Car Center / ATL SkyTrain”

    • Walk through the terminal areas and out to the SkyTrain station.
  4. Ride the ATL SkyTrain to the Rental Car Center

    • Board the free train and exit at the Rental Car Center stop.

This route is useful if you’re in Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, or near other MARTA rail stations and don’t want to drive or pay for rideshare.

Getting Back to the Airport From the Rental Car Center

When you’re returning a rental car before a flight, you’ll do the process in reverse.

Step‑by‑Step: Returning Your Car and Getting to Your Flight

  1. Follow “Rental Car Return” signs as you approach the airport

    • On roads leading into ATL, look for “Rental Car Center” and then “Car Return” signs.
    • You’ll drive up into the RCC parking decks and follow your company’s specific return lane.
  2. Return your vehicle to your rental company’s area

    • Park where directed, complete the check‑in with staff or at a self‑service kiosk if available, and gather your luggage.
  3. Walk into the Rental Car Center lobby

    • Follow indoor signs directing you to the ATL SkyTrain.
  4. Ride the ATL SkyTrain to the Domestic Terminal

    • Board the train toward “Domestic Terminal / Airport”.
    • Ride back to the terminal station.
  5. Go to your airline’s check‑in and security

    • From the SkyTrain station, follow signs inside the terminal for:
      • North Terminal or South Terminal, depending on your airline
      • Ticketing / Check‑In / Security
  6. If flying internationally from Concourse F

    • You’ll still come into the Domestic Terminal via SkyTrain, then:
      • Follow signs for “International Terminal / Concourse F”.
      • Use the airport shuttle bus between terminals or the plane train system (depending on your airline’s instructions).

Quick Comparison: Ways to Reach the Rental Car Center

Starting PointMain RouteCost for Transport to RCCNotes
Domestic Terminal (arriving flight)Walk to ATL SkyTrain → Ride to RCCFreeEasiest and fastest for most travelers
International Terminal (Concourse F)Shuttle bus → RCCFreeDirect shuttle, check signs on arrival
International Terminal via DomesticShuttle to Domestic → ATL SkyTrain → RCCFreeTwo legs but straightforward
Anywhere in ATL by MARTAMARTA to Airport Station → Walk → SkyTrain → RCCMARTA fare onlyGood from Downtown/Midtown/Buckhead
Anywhere in ATL by carDrive → Follow airport signs to Rental Car CenterGas/tolls onlyUse address in GPS for easiest routing
Rideshare/Taxi from cityDirect drop‑off at Rental Car CenterFare variesSkip the main terminal entirely

Practical Tips for Using the Rental Car Center at ATL

  • Allow extra time during peak hours ⏰
    Morning and evening rush periods, holidays, and major events in Atlanta can create crowds at both the airport and RCC. Build in at least 30 extra minutes for returning your car, catching the SkyTrain, and getting through security.

  • Know your rental company’s name and confirmation
    Have your reservation number, company name, and driver’s license ready. The RCC is large, and knowing your company keeps you from walking in circles.

  • Check for fuel stations near the RCC
    If your rental agreement requires a full tank, plan a quick fuel stop in College Park or nearby areas before reaching Rental Car Center Parkway. This can be easier than trying to find gas inside the airport loop.

  • Accessibility options
    The Rental Car Center, SkyTrain, and airport terminals are designed with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. If you need extra assistance, you can:

    • Contact your rental car company ahead of time
    • Ask airport staff at baggage claim or the SkyTrain station for directions and support
  • Traveling with kids or lots of luggage
    The SkyTrain platforms, shuttles, and RCC all accommodate strollers and multiple bags. Carts are usually available, especially near baggage claim, which can make the walk to the SkyTrain easier.

Who to Contact for Questions

If you need current details on routes, hours, or accessibility:

  • Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport – General Information
    Phone: (404) 530‑7300

  • Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center (general facility information via airport)
    Inquiries are typically handled through the main airport information line or through your individual rental car company’s customer service number.

When in doubt, once you’re on airport property, look for uniformed staff, information desks, or overhead signs labeled “Information”—staff are used to guiding travelers to the Rental Car Center and can point you in the right direction quickly.

This is everything you need to get to and from the Atlanta Airport Rental Car Center with confidence, whether you live in metro Atlanta or are just passing through.