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Rental Car Guide at Atlanta Airport (ATL)
The Rental Car Center (RCC) at Atlanta Airport hosts all the major rental agencies, conveniently connected by the efficient SkyTrain. However, the experience of renting a car here is a true gamble. This guide, based on hundreds of real reviews, will help you navigate this minefield and choose the best option for your trip.
Quick Questions About Car Rentals at ATL
- What’s the biggest issue? The hidden fees and aggressive upselling tactics. Many agencies—especially budget brands—are accused of adding unwanted insurance, charging for fake refueling, or inventing damage.
- Are there long waits? Yes. This is another universal complaint, even with a reservation. Companies like Avis, Budget, and Hertz often have lines over an hour long and sometimes run out of cars.
- Which companies are safest and most reliable? Alamo, National, and Enterprise consistently receive the best reviews for efficiency, clean vehicles, and a more transparent rental process.
- Which companies get the most complaints? Fox, Dollar, Payless, and Thrifty accumulate the most negative reviews, with serious allegations of scams, poorly maintained vehicles, and poor customer service.
- Are there problems with late arrivals? Yes. Sixt, for example, closes its counter at 1:00 AM, leaving passengers on delayed flights without a car or assistance.
Rental Agencies and Real User Experiences
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The RCC operates 24/7 and is easily accessible via the SkyTrain from the Domestic Terminal. Below is an honest summary of what to expect from each company, based on travelers’ experiences.
*Hours subject to change. Please verify directly with the agency.
High-Risk Agencies (Use with Caution)
Ace
Tel. +1 866 551 8267 | Hours: 7:00 AM–11:30 PM
User experience: Very polarized. Some staff are praised for excellent service, but the company is frequently accused of aggressive insurance upselling and holding deposits longer than necessary.
Dollar / Thrifty
Tel. +1 866 434 2226 | Hours: 5:00 AM–2:00 AM
User experience: Flooded with negative reviews. Common issues include fraudulent fuel charges, exorbitant deposits ($500+), long waits, and being forced into paid “upgrades” when your reserved vehicle isn't available.
Fox / Payless
Tel. +1 770 455 5515 | Hours: Varying
User experience: Considered the most problematic options. Complaints include poorly maintained vehicles (worn tires, dirty), hidden charges for unrequested insurance, rude staff, and hours-long waits even with a reservation.
Agencies with Inconsistent Service
Avis / Budget
Tel. +1 404 763 6333 / +1 404 530 3000 | Hours: 24 hours
User experience: Main issues are operational: be prepared for very long lines, understaffed counters, and a high chance they don’t have your reserved car. Complaints frequently mention dirty vehicles and fraudulent charges for cleaning or fuel.
Hertz
Tel. +1 404 530 2925 | Hours: 5:00 AM–2:00 AM
User experience: Mixed. Although their loyalty “Gold” program is known, it often fails at ATL, forcing members to queue with everyone else. Long waits and incorrect fuel charges persist.
Sixt
Tel. +1 888 749 8227 | Hours: 6:00 AM–1:00 AM
User experience: They offer premium vehicles but are criticized for deceptive insurance tactics and dubious damage claims. Their biggest issue: they close at 1:00 AM, leaving delayed arrivals stranded.
Most Reliable Agencies (User Recommended)
Alamo / National / Enterprise
Tel. Various | Hours: 24 hours
User experience: By far the highest-rated agencies. Customers praise their efficient “skip-the-counter” process, the ability to pick a car from the lot (National’s Emerald Aisle), and consistently professional staff. While not perfect, they offer a much safer and more predictable rental experience.
Survival Tips for Renting at ATL
To protect yourself from common issues, follow these tips:
- Record a Car Video: Before leaving the lot, record a detailed video of the exterior and interior, pointing out any scratches, dents, or stains. This is your best defense against false damage claims.
- Review the Contract Line by Line: Don’t sign anything until you’ve read every item. Explicitly decline unwanted insurance (LDW, SLI) or prepaid fuel options. Request they remove them from the contract before signing.
- Photograph the Fuel Level: Take a photo of the gauge showing a full tank and the mileage before returning the car. Keep your gas receipt.
- Avoid Budget Agencies: Unless price is your only concern, reviews suggest initial savings often lead to headaches with extra fees. Paying a bit more with Alamo, National, or Enterprise usually provides a smoother experience.
- Confirm Your Reservation and Allow Extra Time: Long waits are standard. Don’t arrive tight on time to collect your car.
REMEMBER:
Booking your rental car in advance is key to avoiding long waits and securing a better rate. Many travelers also recommend carefully reviewing terms and conditions, especially if driving out of Georgia, as extra fees may apply. Returning the car with a full tank is also advised — several users reported unexpected fuel charges despite refueling.