Rental Cars at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta: How to Pick Up, Drop Off, and Save Time

If you are searching for “rental car Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta”, you are probably flying into Atlanta and want to know exactly where rental cars are, how they work at this busy airport, what to expect with pricing, and whether you really need a car for getting around the city.

This guide walks through how rental cars work at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and what Atlanta‑area visitors and residents should know before booking.

Where the Rental Car Center Is at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta

Hartsfield‑Jackson does not keep the rental counters inside the main domestic or international terminals. Instead, everything is consolidated at the Rental Car Center (RCC).

Official name:
Rental Car Center – Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport
2200 Rental Car Center Parkway
College Park, GA 30337

The RCC is a separate facility just west of the main airport, connected by a free, 24/7 SkyTrain.

How to Get to the Rental Car Center from Your Flight

From the Domestic Terminal (North or South):

1. Follow signs for “Rental Cars / SkyTrain” after you leave the secure area.
2. Take the escalator or elevator up to the ATL SkyTrain station (adjacent to the Georgia International Convention Center stop).
3. Board the train toward “Rental Car Center” – the ride is usually under 5 minutes.
4. Exit at the RCC; the rental car counters and garages are directly connected to the station.

From the International Terminal (Concourse F):

You have two main options:

• Option 1 – Airport Shuttle:

  • Follow signs for “Ground Transportation” and then “Rental Car Center Shuttle”.
  • A free shuttle bus runs between the International Terminal and the Rental Car Center.
  • This can be more direct if you are not connecting through the domestic side.

• Option 2 – Terminal Connector + SkyTrain:

  • Take the internal airport shuttle to the Domestic Terminal.
  • Then follow the same steps as domestic arrivals to reach the SkyTrain and RCC.

📝 Tip: If you have a lot of luggage or a group, the direct RCC shuttle from the International Terminal is often simpler than transferring to the Domestic side first.

Which Rental Car Companies Operate at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta?

The RCC hosts most of the major on‑airport rental car brands. These typically include:

• Large national brands (multiple counters on the main RCC level)
• A mix of value‑focused and premium brands
• Some specialty options (vans, trucks, higher‑end vehicles) through the same counters or nearby garages

All of these share the same location, and the car pickup areas are in the attached parking decks just behind the counters.

At the Rental Car Center you can expect:

• Centralized counters in a single main hall
• Unified signage so you can easily find your company
• Shared return lanes clearly marked as you drive back in

Because everything is in one place, switching between companies on‑site is usually straightforward if you need to adjust a reservation at the last minute (subject to availability and terms).

Step‑by‑Step: Renting a Car at Hartsfield‑Jackson (ATL)

If you are new to renting at ATL, this is what the process typically looks like:

1. Book in Advance (If Possible)

You can usually:

• Reserve online or over the phone with your preferred company
• Choose vehicle type (compact, SUV, minivan, etc.)
• Enter airline, flight number, and estimated arrival time
• Add optional services like GPS, child seats, or additional drivers

Booking ahead often:

• Improves your chances of getting the class you want
• Helps avoid longer lines at the counter during peak times
• Sometimes secures better pricing than walk‑up rates

2. Arrive at the RCC and Visit Your Company’s Counter

Once you arrive via the SkyTrain or shuttle:

• Look for your company’s logo on overhead signs.
• Head to the rental counter or to the self‑service kiosk area if your company offers it.
• Present:
  • A valid driver’s license
  • A credit card (debit cards are sometimes accepted but often with extra requirements)
  • Your reservation details or confirmation number

Many companies offer express or preferred customer lines, which can speed up the process if you are enrolled.

3. Review the Agreement

Before you head to the car:

• Confirm:

  • Rate and total estimated charges
  • Fuel policy (prepaid fuel vs. return full)
  • Mileage limits (most ATL rentals for personal use are unlimited mileage, but confirm)
  • Return time and grace period

• Ask about:

  • Tolls in and around Atlanta
  • Age‑related fees (commonly for drivers under 25)
  • Any restrictions on taking the car out of state

4. Pick Up the Car in the Attached Garage

After check‑in:

• Follow signs to your company’s garage section or floor.
• An attendant may:
  • Assign you a specific vehicle
  • Allow you to choose from a row of vehicles in your reserved class

Before driving off:

• Walk around the car and note any existing damage with photos or video.
• Check:
  • Fuel level
  • Tire condition
  • Interior cleanliness
• Confirm how to:
  • Use headlights and wipers (Atlanta thunderstorms can be sudden)
  • Add a phone via Bluetooth or USB for navigation

Returning a Rental Car at Hartsfield‑Jackson

Returning is usually simpler than pickup.

Directions Back to the Rental Car Center

From most major highways around Atlanta:

• From I‑85 or I‑285, follow signs for “Airport / Rental Car Return”.
• Watch for “Rental Car Return” signs as you approach the airport area – these will route you directly to 2200 Rental Car Center Parkway.

Inside the RCC:

• Follow overhead signs to your company’s return lane.
• An attendant will typically:
  • Verify fuel level and mileage
  • Check for visible damage
  • Print or email a return receipt

You then enter the SkyTrain station adjacent to the garages:

• Ride back to the Domestic Terminal (North or South)
• From there, connect to your airline check‑in or security
• If you are heading to the International Terminal, use the airport shuttle from the Domestic side or follow current posted guidance

🕒 Time buffer: From the moment you turn off I‑85 or I‑285, allow at least 30 minutes for navigating to the RCC, completing the return, and riding the SkyTrain back to the terminal during normal traffic. Longer during rush hours or bad weather.

Do You Need a Rental Car in Atlanta?

Atlanta is spread out, and Hartsfield‑Jackson is south of downtown, so whether you need a car depends on your plans.

When a Rental Car Makes Sense

A rental car from ATL is often convenient if you:

• Are staying outside central Atlanta (e.g., suburbs like Marietta, Alpharetta, Duluth, Peachtree City)
• Plan to visit destinations like:
  • Stone Mountain Park
  • Six Flags Over Georgia
  • Lake Lanier
  • Suburban shopping or business parks
• Are in town for business in Perimeter Center, Cumberland/Galleria, or North Fulton office corridors
• Prefer door‑to‑door flexibility without waiting for rideshares or transit

When You Might Skip the Rental

You may be fine without a rental car if:

• You are mostly staying in Downtown, Midtown, or near the airport
• You plan to rely on:
  • MARTA rail (the main airport station is in the Domestic Terminal)
  • Rideshare services
  • Hotel shuttles and walkable neighborhoods

For example:

• The Airport MARTA Station connects directly to Downtown (Five Points), Midtown, and Buckhead without driving.
• Many conference hotels and downtown attractions are accessible via MARTA and short rideshares.

Common Costs and Fees to Expect at ATL Rental Counters

While exact prices vary, renters at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta often see similar patterns in charges.

Typical Charges

• Base daily or weekly rate – depends on vehicle class, demand, and season.
• Airport concession fees and surcharges – common at major airports.
• State and local taxes – applied to the rental total.
• Optional insurance and protection products – collision damage waiver, liability supplements, etc.
• Add‑ons:
  • Child safety seats
  • GPS devices (if not using your phone)
  • Additional driver fees

Age and Payment Considerations

• Drivers under 25 often pay an additional daily fee.
• Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but often with:
  • Proof of return travel
  • Credit checks or extra documentation
  • Larger security holds

Credit cards usually provide the smoothest check‑in process at ATL.

Planning Routes from Hartsfield‑Jackson with a Rental Car

Once you leave the RCC, you will be on local roads near Camp Creek Parkway and I‑285. Common routes:

To Downtown Atlanta

• Take I‑85 North from the airport area.
• Drive time is typically 15–25 minutes without heavy traffic.
• Landmarks along the way include:
  • Georgia State University
  • State Farm Arena
  • Mercedes‑Benz Stadium
  • Georgia World Congress Center

To Midtown and Buckhead

• Follow I‑85 North through Downtown, then:
  • Continue north on I‑85 for Midtown and Buckhead areas, or
  • Use surface streets like Peachtree Street or Piedmont Avenue after exiting.

To the Suburbs

• North: Take I‑75 or GA‑400 for areas like Marietta, Kennesaw, Sandy Springs, Roswell, and Alpharetta.
• East: Use I‑20 East for Dekalb County and Stone Mountain.
• West: Use I‑20 West for Six Flags Over Georgia and western suburbs.
• South: Stay on or connect to I‑85 South or I‑75 South toward cities like Fayetteville, Peachtree City, and McDonough.

🛣️ Atlanta traffic note: Rush hours can be heavy, especially on I‑75/85 through Downtown and I‑285. Building extra travel time into your plan is wise if you have scheduled appointments or flights.

Airport vs. Off‑Airport Rental Cars in Atlanta

If you live in the Atlanta area or are staying for an extended period, you might wonder whether to rent directly at Hartsfield‑Jackson or at a neighborhood location.

Pros of Renting at Hartsfield‑Jackson (RCC)

• Immediate pickup when you land
• Centralized choice of multiple companies
• 24/7 operation at most counters
• Easy return and direct connection back to terminals via SkyTrain

Possible Advantages of Off‑Airport Locations

• Some neighborhood locations around Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and suburbs may offer:
  • Different pricing structures
  • Parking convenience for locals
• If you are an Atlanta resident, you might:
  • Avoid airport concession fees
  • Coordinate rental around your schedule without going to the airport

However, for typical visitors landing at ATL, using the Rental Car Center is usually the most straightforward option.

Simple Summary: Renting a Car at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta

Below is a quick reference for the key points:

Practical Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience at ATL

• Reserve early during major events (sports championships, conventions, holidays); Atlanta fills up quickly.
• Keep your driver’s license and credit card handy before reaching the counter to speed up check‑in.
• Take photos of the car at pickup and return, especially if it is dark or raining.
• If your flight changes, update your rental reservation so the company knows when to expect you.
• Build in extra time for the SkyTrain ride and check‑in when returning your car before a flight.

With a clear sense of where the Hartsfield‑Jackson Rental Car Center is, how to reach it, and how driving around Atlanta works, you can decide whether a rental car is the right choice for your visit or your local travel needs.