Atlanta

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Car Rentals

Car rental services are available throughout Atlanta, allowing visitors and residents to easily move around the city and explore nearby areas.

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Comprehensive Guide to Car Rentals in Atlanta, United States

Renting a car in Atlanta, Georgia, is a convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas, especially since public transportation options are somewhat limited compared to other major cities. Below is a detailed guide covering all aspects of car rentals in Atlanta.

1. Popular Car Rental Agencies in Atlanta

Atlanta is home to numerous car rental agencies, both at the airport and in various locations throughout the city. Some of the most popular agencies include:

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL):
    • Enterprise Rent-A-Car
    • Hertz
    • Avis
    • Budget
    • Alamo
    • National Car Rental
    • Thrifty
    • Dollar Rent A Car
    • Sixt Rent A Car
  • City Locations:
    • Many of the above agencies also have branches in downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, and Midtown, as well as suburban areas like Marietta, Sandy Springs, and Decatur.

2. Typical Rental Costs

Car rental costs in Atlanta vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and time of year. Below are approximate costs:

  • Economy Cars: $35โ€“$50 per day
  • Mid-Size Cars: $45โ€“$65 per day
  • SUVs: $70โ€“$100 per day
  • Luxury Cars: $100โ€“$200+ per day
  • Weekly Rentals: Discounts are often available for weekly rentals, with economy cars starting at around $250โ€“$300 per week.

Additional Costs:

  • Taxes and fees: Expect an additional 10โ€“20% in taxes and surcharges.
  • Insurance: $10โ€“$30 per day, depending on the coverage.
  • Young driver fees: $20โ€“$30 per day for drivers under 25.

3. Required Documents

To rent a car in Atlanta, you will need the following:

  • Driverโ€™s License:

    • A valid driverโ€™s license from your home country is required.
    • International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country license, depending on the rental agencyโ€™s policy.

  • Credit Card:

    • A major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.) is typically required for the security deposit.
    • Some agencies accept debit cards, but additional documentation (e.g., proof of return flight) may be required.

  • Proof of Insurance:

    • If you have personal car insurance or coverage through a credit card, bring proof to avoid purchasing additional insurance.

  • Age Verification:

    • Drivers must meet the minimum age requirement (see below).

4. Insurance Policies

Car rental insurance is an important consideration. Here are the common types of coverage:

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW):
    • Covers damage to the rental car. Costs $10โ€“$30 per day.
  • Liability Insurance:
    • Covers damage to other vehicles or property. Often included in the rental price but check the limits.
  • Personal Accident Insurance:
    • Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers. Costs $5โ€“$15 per day.
  • Personal Effects Coverage:
    • Covers theft of personal belongings from the car. Costs $2โ€“$5 per day.

Tip: Check if your personal auto insurance or credit card offers rental car coverage to avoid duplicating insurance.

5. Age Restrictions

  • Minimum Age: Most rental agencies in Atlanta require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
  • Young Driver Fee: Drivers aged 21โ€“24 typically incur an additional fee of $20โ€“$30 per day.
  • Exceptions: Some agencies, like Hertz, allow drivers as young as 18 if they are renting under a corporate account or government contract.

6. Procedures for Renting a Car

  1. Reservation:

    • Book online in advance for the best rates and vehicle availability.
    • Compare prices on aggregator websites like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars.com.

  2. Pick-Up:

    • At the airport: Follow signs to the Rental Car Center (RCC), accessible via the ATL SkyTrain.
    • In the city: Visit the rental agencyโ€™s office with your documents.

  3. Inspection:

    • Inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and ensure it is documented by the rental agency.
    • Take photos or videos for your records.

  4. Payment:

    • Pay with a credit card and confirm any additional charges (e.g., insurance, GPS, toll passes).

  5. Return:

    • Return the car with the agreed fuel level (usually full) to avoid refueling charges.
    • Inspect the car with the agency representative and request a receipt.

7. Driving Rules in Atlanta and Georgia

  • Speed Limits:

    • Urban areas: 35 mph
    • Highways: 55โ€“70 mph
    • School zones: 25 mph (when lights are flashing)

  • Seat Belts:

    • Mandatory for all passengers.

  • Cell Phone Use:

    • Georgia has a hands-free law. Using a handheld device while driving is prohibited.

  • Right on Red:

    • Permitted unless a sign indicates otherwise.

  • Alcohol Limit:

    • Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%.

  • HOV Lanes:

    • High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes on highways require at least two passengers.

8. Local Considerations

  • Traffic Patterns:

    • Atlanta is notorious for heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (7:00โ€“9:30 AM and 4:00โ€“7:00 PM).
    • Major highways like I-285, I-75, I-85, and I-20 can become congested.

  • Parking:

    • Downtown Atlanta has metered street parking and parking garages. Rates range from $2โ€“$10 per hour.
    • Apps like ParkMobile can help locate and pay for parking.

  • Toll Roads:

    • Georgia has a few toll roads, such as the I-85 Express Lanes. Use a Peach Pass for electronic toll payments.
    • Some rental agencies offer toll passes for an additional fee.

  • Airport Rentals:

    • The Rental Car Center (RCC) at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport houses all major rental agencies.
    • Accessible via the ATL SkyTrain, the RCC is open 24/7.

9. Tips for Renting a Car in Atlanta

  • Book Early: Prices can increase during peak travel seasons (spring and summer) and major events (e.g., sports games, conventions).
  • Fuel Policy: Most rentals require you to return the car with a full tank. Gas stations near the airport often charge higher prices.
  • GPS/Navigation: Consider using your smartphone for navigation instead of paying extra for a GPS device.
  • Toll Roads: If you plan to use toll roads, ask the rental agency about their toll payment options.
  • Avoid Downtown Traffic: Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to avoid traffic hotspots.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to rent a car in Atlanta and navigate the city with ease. Safe travels!