About renting a car at New Jersey Airport
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the primary gateway for most visitors, and all rental brands there operate from a Consolidated Rental Car Center 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. Travelers 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 rental 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. Rental 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 a deposit 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 license uses a non-Latin script should carry an International Driving Permit.
Best Car Rental Deals

Chevrolet Spark | Automatic
SMALLor Small similar
4
2
Automatic
From
/ day
AUDI A6 | Automatic
or Small similar
5
3
Automatic
From
/ day

Kia K4 | Automatic
SEDANor Sedan similar
5
3
Automatic
From
/ day

Chevrolet Trax | Automatic
SUVor SUV similar
5
2
Automatic
From
/ day
AUDI A3 | Automatic
LUXURYor Luxury similar
5
3
Automatic
From
/ day

Chrysler Pacifica 7 Passengers | Automatic
MINIVANor Minivan similar
7
4
Automatic
From
/ day

Dodge RAM 2500 | Automatic
PICKUPor Pickup similar
6
Automatic
From
/ day
Ford Mustang Convertible | Automatic
CONVERTIBLEor Convertible similar
4
2
Automatic
From
/ day

GMC Yukon Denali 7 Passengers | Automatic
7 PASSENGERSor 7 Passengers similar
7
4
Automatic
From
/ day
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 rental car?
After you collect your luggage from the baggage claim area, look for overhead signs directing you to the AirTrain. This automated monorail system is your primary transport to the rental car facilities. Most major rental car companies at Newark Airport are conveniently located in a central facility at the P3 station. The AirTrain is free to use for travel between terminals, parking lots, and the rental car center, making the process smooth and efficient.
How do I get from my terminal at EWR to the rental car area using the airport shuttle or AirTrain?
The most efficient way to reach the rental car area is by using the 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 take it to the P3 station stop. The consolidated rental car center, which houses the counters for most agencies, is located right at this station, making it a simple walk from the AirTrain platform to pick up your vehicle.
Is the rental car return at EWR in the same place as pick-up, or is it a different location?
Yes, the rental car return at Newark Airport is located in the same consolidated facility where you picked up your vehicle. As you drive back toward the airport, you will see prominent signs for “Rental Car Return.” It is important to follow these specific signs rather than the signs for your departure terminal. This will guide you directly to the multi-level garage where you can drop off the car and then take the AirTrain back to your terminal.
How early should I return my rental car at EWR for a domestic flight versus an international flight?
For a domestic flight, it is wise to return your rental car at least two and a half to three hours before your scheduled departure. For international flights, plan to arrive at the rental car return three and a half to four hours in advance. This buffer accounts for the time needed to complete the vehicle return process, take the AirTrain from the P3 station to your terminal, check your luggage, and clear through security, which can have long lines.
What’s the easiest way to reach Manhattan from EWR by rental car without getting stuck in tunnel traffic?
Avoiding tunnel traffic entirely can be challenging, 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 are prone to heavy delays. An alternative to consider 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 decision.
If I’m driving to Midtown Manhattan from EWR, which river crossing usually makes the most sense for my route?
For destinations in Midtown Manhattan, such as Times Square or the Theater District, the Lincoln Tunnel is the most direct and logical river crossing. It connects directly from New Jersey into the heart of Midtown. The Holland Tunnel is better suited for reaching Downtown Manhattan neighborhoods like SoHo or the Financial District. The George Washington Bridge is the best choice for reaching 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 from 7-10 AM and 4-7 PM, requires patience and planning. You should anticipate heavy, slow-moving traffic on all major arteries, including the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), I-78, and Routes 1 & 9. Travel times can easily double during these periods, so it's crucial to build significant extra time into your schedule. Using a GPS with live traffic updates is essential for navigating the congestion.
Are there common wrong turns or confusing exits when leaving Newark Airport in a rental car?
The highway interchanges surrounding EWR are complex, with many merging lanes and quick splits for major routes like the NJ Turnpike, I-78, and US 1/9. A common point of confusion is ensuring you are in the correct lane for your intended highway well in advance. Rely heavily on your GPS navigation and pay close attention to overhead signs. Last-minute lane changes can be difficult and unsafe due to the high volume of traffic.
Which navigation address should I use for the EWR rental car center 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 just the airport's main address. The rental car facility is located at the P3 parking station, which is a distinct location from the passenger terminals. Using this more specific destination in your navigation app will guide you to the correct entrance for rental car pick-up or return, helping you avoid circling the terminal loops.
If my flight lands late at night at EWR, what should I plan for when picking up a rental car?
When arriving on a late-night flight, it's crucial to verify the operating hours of your specific rental car company in advance, as some counters may close overnight. While the airport itself will be quieter, the rental car center may have reduced staffing, which could potentially lead to a longer wait time. The AirTrain runs 24/7, so getting to the rental center is not an issue. Just be sure to have your reservation details handy for a smoother process.
What are the best first driving stops near EWR to grab food or essentials before heading to my hotel?
Just a short drive from the airport, you'll find numerous convenient options for food and supplies. The area along US Routes 1 & 9 in Elizabeth features many fast-food chains, diners, and large retail centers like The Mills at Jersey Gardens. For a wider variety of local cuisine, the Ironbound district in Newark is famous for its Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants. These nearby spots allow you to easily 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 will encounter tolls at all bridge and tunnel crossings, such as the Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, and George Washington Bridge. These tolls are collected electronically via systems like E-ZPass, and cash lanes are increasingly rare. Most rental vehicles are equipped with a toll transponder, and the rental company will have a program for how these charges are handled. It's a good idea to ask about their specific tolling policy at the rental counter.
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 easily access the GSP by taking a short drive on I-78 West. Once on the Parkway, it's a relatively straight shot down the coast. During the summer, especially on Fridays and Sundays, expect heavy traffic, so it's best to travel during off-peak hours if possible.
How long does it usually take to drive from EWR to Atlantic City depending on the day and time?
Under ideal conditions with light traffic, the drive from Newark Airport to Atlantic City takes approximately two hours. The route primarily follows the Garden State Parkway South. However, this travel time can increase significantly, sometimes to three hours or more, during peak periods. The heaviest traffic typically occurs 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 to take the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) South from the airport. You will travel for about 35-40 miles before taking the exit for Route 18 North toward US Route 1 South, which leads you into the Princeton area. The drive is almost entirely on major highways and is well-signed. Outside of peak rush hour, the journey typically takes under an hour.
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
- Opens in a new window.
Suggested Currencies
- $ USD - United States Dollar
- € EUR - Euro
Other Countries
-
Albania
-
Algeria
-
Andorra
-
Angola
-
Antigua & Barbuda
-
Argentina
-
Australia
-
Austria
-
Bahamas
-
Bahrain
-
Bangladesh
-
Barbados
-
Belgium
-
Belize
-
Benin
-
Bermuda
-
Bolivia
-
Bosnia & Herzegovina
-
Botswana
-
Brazil
-
British Virgin Islands
-
Bulgaria
-
Burkina Faso
-
Burundi
-
Cameroon
-
Canada
-
Cape Verde
-
Cayman Islands
-
Central African Republic
-
Chad
-
Chile
-
Colombia
-
Comoros
-
Congo - Brazzaville
-
Congo - Kinshasa
-
Costa Rica
-
Côte d’Ivoire
-
Croatia
-
Curaçao
-
Cyprus
-
Czechia
-
Denmark
-
Djibouti
-
Dominica
-
Dominican Republic
-
Ecuador
-
Egypt
-
El Salvador
-
Equatorial Guinea
-
Eritrea
-
Estonia
-
Eswatini
-
Ethiopia
-
Finland
-
France
-
Gabon
-
Gambia
-
Germany
-
Ghana
-
Greece
-
Grenada
-
Guatemala
-
Guinea
-
Guinea-Bissau
-
Guyana
-
Haiti
-
Honduras
-
Hong Kong SAR
-
Hungary
-
Iceland
-
India
-
Iraq
-
Ireland
-
Israel
-
Italy
-
Jamaica
-
Japan
-
Jordan
-
Kenya
-
Kuwait
-
Latvia
-
Lebanon
-
Lesotho
-
Liberia
-
Libya
-
Liechtenstein
-
Lithuania
-
Luxembourg
-
Madagascar
-
Malawi
-
Mali
-
Malta
-
Mauritania
-
Mauritius
-
Mexico
-
Moldova
-
Monaco
-
Montenegro
-
Morocco
-
Mozambique
-
Namibia
-
Netherlands
-
New Zealand
-
Nicaragua
-
Niger
-
Nigeria
-
Norway
-
Oman
-
Palestinian Territories
-
Panama
-
Paraguay
-
Peru
-
Philippines
-
Poland
-
Portugal
-
Qatar
-
Romania
-
Russia
-
Rwanda
-
San Marino
-
São Tomé & Príncipe
-
Saudi Arabia
-
Senegal
-
Serbia
-
Seychelles
-
Sierra Leone
-
Singapore
-
Sint Maarten
-
Slovakia
-
Slovenia
-
Somalia
-
South Africa
-
South Korea
-
South Sudan
-
Spain
-
St. Lucia
-
St. Vincent & Grenadines
-
Sudan
-
Sweden
-
Switzerland
-
Taiwan
-
Tanzania
-
Togo
-
Trinidad & Tobago
-
Tunisia
-
Türkiye
-
Turks & Caicos Islands
-
Uganda
-
Ukraine
-
United Arab Emirates
-
United Kingdom
-
United States
-
Uruguay
-
Vatican City
-
Venezuela
-
Yemen
-
Zambia
-
Zimbabwe