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Atlanta offers several locations to rent a car, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hartsfield-Jackson Airport (ATL) | • 24/7 operations available from all major rental companies • Large vehicle selection • On-site rental car center accessible by SkyTrain • Convenient for arriving flights |
• Approximately 18% more expensive due to airport fees • Can have long lines during peak times • Additional transportation fee (~$5/day) |
| Downtown Atlanta | • Lower rates than airport • Convenient if staying downtown first • No airport surcharges |
• Limited hours (usually 8AM-6PM) • Smaller vehicle selection • May close early on weekends |
| Midtown/Buckhead | • Accessible by MARTA • Lower rates than airport • Convenient for those staying in these areas |
• Limited hours • May require advance booking for specific vehicle types |
On average, car rentals in Atlanta cost around $55 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $21 per day.
Compare airport vs. city pickups. Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead branches skip ATL's 18 % airport fees. You can ride MARTA from the terminal, then grab the car.
Shift your dates. Weekend rentals in Atlanta (Fri–Mon) often drop in price while summer holidays and big conventions spike rates. Play with pickup and return times to spot the dip.
Mix vehicle sizes on the search page. Sometimes an intermediate SUV costs less than a compact when sedans sell out. Click through multiple classes before you lock in.
Fill up yourself near ATL. Gas stations on Camp Creek Pkwy are cheap and close. Avoid the prepaid fuel option that charges a premium if you bring back anything but fumes.
| Area | Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown | Street meters | Varies | Enforcement times 7 AM – 7 PM Mon – Sat; often free evenings and Sundays |
| Downtown/Midtown | Garages | Varies | More secure; better for longer stays |
| Shopping areas | Mall parking | Often free | Abundant at Lenox Square, Atlantic Station, etc. |
| Buckhead | Mixed street/garage | Varies | Limited free street parking in residential areas |
| Stone Mountain | Park entrance | Fee per vehicle | Includes parking for the day |
Right-hand driving: Drive on the right side of the road
Right turn on red: Legal after a complete stop unless signed otherwise
Hands-free law: No holding phones while driving; use Bluetooth
Move over law: Must vacate the lane or slow down when passing emergency vehicles
Speed limits: Usually 55–70 mph on interstates and 25–45 mph on city streets
Toll roads: Express lanes on I-85, I-75 and I-575 require a Peach Pass transponder

Are there any emissions requirements for rental cars in Atlanta?
The state requires emissions tests for cars registered in metro Atlanta counties, but this doesn't apply to you if you're a visitor renting a car.
What are typical additional driver fees in Atlanta?
Adding another driver usually costs $10-15 per day. Some companies will let you add a spouse or domestic partner for free.
How much should I expect to pay for child safety seats?
Car rental companies charge about $12 per day for a child safety seat. Georgia law says children under 8 must ride in a proper car seat or booster.
What happens if I encounter winter weather while driving in Atlanta?
Atlanta rarely gets much snow or ice. When it does, the city doesn't have a lot of snowplows. If the forecast calls for winter weather, you should think about postponing your trip because the roads can get very dangerous.
Can I use HOV lanes in Atlanta?
Yes, you need at least two people in your car to use the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes on Atlanta highways. They can save you a lot of time during rush hour.
How does the Peach Pass work with rental cars?
Some rental companies will give you a Peach Pass for a daily fee plus the cost of tolls. If you think you'll use the express lanes a lot, you should ask the company about it when you book your car.