About hiring a car at New Jersey Airport
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the primary gateway for most visitors, and all hire brands there operate from a Consolidated Rental Car Centre reached via AirTrain from Terminals B and C or a pedestrian bridge from Terminal A — budget 15 to 30 minutes beyond baggage claim to complete the process. Travellers arriving at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) for southern New Jersey destinations face a longer transfer: a shuttle from Zone 2 outside baggage claim runs to an off-site hire facility, and the full process typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is the most direct option for the Jersey Shore, with counters inside the terminal and vehicles steps away. On the road, New Jersey's major highways — the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and Atlantic City Expressway — rely on E-ZPass, an electronic toll system now largely cashless. Hire companies offer an unlimited toll package typically running US$11–25 per day; without it, each day a toll registers adds a per-use administrative fee on top of the actual toll cost. Fuel averages around US$3.62 per gallon statewide, with highway service stations on the Turnpike and Parkway running higher. Budget for an authorisation hold of US$200–500 on a credit card in the primary driver's name — debit cards are not accepted. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge, and visitors whose licence uses a non-Latin script should carry an International Driving Permit.
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Traveler Tips & Price Insights
When is the best time to book a rental car in New Jersey?
You should book your rental car approximately 7 days before your trip to get a below-average price.
Price Trend (Last 90 Days)
What is the most popular rental car type in New Jersey?
sedan rental cars (sedan or similar) are the most popular option in New Jersey.
Popular Car Types
Which is the cheapest car rental agency in New Jersey?
In the last 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were from Thrifty at /day.
Average Price by Rental Company
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I go after landing at Newark Airport (EWR) to pick up a hire car?
After you collect your luggage from baggage reclaim, look for the overhead signs directing you to the AirTrain. This automated monorail is the primary way to reach the car hire facilities. Most major car hire companies at Newark are located in a centralised facility at the P3 station. The AirTrain is free for travel between terminals, car parks, and the car hire centre, making the process smooth and efficient.
How do I get from my terminal at EWR to the car hire area using the airport shuttle or AirTrain?
The most efficient way to reach the car hire area is to use AirTrain Newark. After exiting your terminal, follow the signs for the AirTrain, which has stations at Terminals A, B, and C. Board the train and ride to the P3 station stop. The consolidated car hire centre, which houses the desks for most agencies, is located at this station, so it’s a simple walk from the AirTrain platform to pick up your vehicle.
Is the hire car return at EWR in the same place as pick-up, or is it a different location?
Yes, hire car returns at Newark Airport are in the same consolidated facility where you picked up your vehicle. As you drive back towards the airport, you’ll see prominent signs for “Rental Car Return”. It’s important to follow these specific signs rather than the signs for your departure terminal. This will guide you directly to the multi-storey car park where you can drop off the car, then take the AirTrain back to your terminal.
How early should I return my hire car at EWR for a domestic flight versus an international flight?
For a domestic flight, it’s wise to return your hire car at least two and a half to three hours before your scheduled departure. For international flights, plan to arrive at the car return three and a half to four hours in advance. This buffer accounts for the time needed to complete the return, take the AirTrain from P3 to your terminal, check in bags, and clear security, which can have long queues.
What’s the easiest way to reach Manhattan from EWR by hire car without getting stuck in tunnel traffic?
Avoiding tunnel traffic entirely can be difficult, but using a real-time GPS app is your best strategy for finding the least congested route. The Holland Tunnel and Lincoln Tunnel are the most direct options, but they’re prone to heavy delays. An alternative is taking the NJ Turnpike north to the George Washington Bridge, especially if your destination is in Upper Manhattan. Always check traffic conditions right before you leave the airport to make the most informed choice.
If I’m driving to Midtown Manhattan from EWR, which river crossing usually makes the most sense for my route?
For Midtown Manhattan destinations such as Times Square or the Theatre District, the Lincoln Tunnel is the most direct and logical river crossing. It connects New Jersey straight into the heart of Midtown. The Holland Tunnel is better for Downtown neighbourhoods like SoHo or the Financial District. The George Washington Bridge is best for Upper Manhattan, Washington Heights, or the Bronx.
What should I expect when driving out of EWR during weekday rush hour?
Driving out of Newark Airport during weekday rush hour, typically 7–10am and 4–7pm, requires patience and planning. Expect heavy, slow-moving traffic on major routes including the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), I-78, and Routes 1 & 9. Journey times can easily double, so it’s crucial to build in significant extra time. Using a GPS with live traffic updates is essential for navigating congestion.
Are there common wrong turns or confusing exits when leaving Newark Airport in a hire car?
The motorway interchanges around EWR are complex, with many merging lanes and quick splits for major routes such as the NJ Turnpike, I-78, and US 1/9. A common issue is getting into the correct lane for your intended route well in advance. Rely heavily on GPS navigation and pay close attention to overhead signs. Last-minute lane changes can be difficult and unsafe due to high traffic volumes.
Which navigation address should I use for the EWR car hire centre so GPS doesn’t take me to the wrong terminal?
To ensure your GPS directs you correctly, it’s best to search for “Newark Airport Rental Car Center” or “EWR P3 Station” rather than the airport’s main address. The car hire facility is at the P3 parking station, which is separate from the passenger terminals. Using this more specific destination will guide you to the correct entrance for pick-up or return and help you avoid circling the terminal roadways.
If my flight lands late at night at EWR, what should I plan for when picking up a hire car?
If you arrive on a late-night flight, it’s crucial to check your specific car hire company’s opening hours in advance, as some desks may close overnight. While the airport itself will be quieter, the car hire centre may have reduced staffing, which could mean a longer wait. The AirTrain runs 24/7, so getting to the car hire centre isn’t an issue. Keep your reservation details handy to make the process smoother.
What are the best first driving stops near EWR to grab food or essentials before heading to my hotel?
A short drive from the airport, you’ll find plenty of convenient options for food and supplies. The area along US Routes 1 & 9 in Elizabeth has many fast-food chains, diners, and large retail centres like The Mills at Jersey Gardens. For more local variety, Newark’s Ironbound district is well known for Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants. These nearby stops make it easy to stock up on essentials before continuing your journey.
How do tolls work when driving from Newark Airport to New York City, and where are the toll points?
When driving from EWR into New York City, you’ll encounter tolls at all bridge and tunnel crossings, such as the Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, and George Washington Bridge. Tolls are collected electronically via systems like E‑ZPass, and cash lanes are increasingly rare. Most hire vehicles have a toll transponder, and the hire company will have a programme for how charges are handled. It’s a good idea to ask about the specific toll policy at the desk.
What’s the most straightforward drive from EWR to the Jersey Shore for a weekend trip?
The most direct and popular route to most Jersey Shore destinations is the Garden State Parkway (GSP) South. From the airport, you can access the GSP by taking a short drive on I-78 West. Once on the Parkway, it’s a relatively straight run down the coast. In summer, especially on Fridays and Sundays, expect heavy traffic, so travelling at off-peak times is best if possible.
How long does it usually take to drive from EWR to Atlantic City depending on the day and time?
In ideal conditions with light traffic, the drive from Newark Airport to Atlantic City takes about two hours, mainly via the Garden State Parkway South. However, journey times can increase significantly, sometimes to three hours or more, during peak periods. The worst traffic is typically on summer weekends, especially Friday afternoons heading south and Sunday afternoons heading north, so plan your departure time accordingly.
What’s the easiest route from EWR to Princeton for a campus visit or business meeting?
The most straightforward route to Princeton is the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) South from the airport. You’ll travel about 35–40 miles, then take the exit for Route 18 North towards US Route 1 South, which leads into the Princeton area. The drive is almost entirely on major motorways and is well signed. Outside peak rush hour, it typically takes under an hour.
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