What to expect when you rent at Newark

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) has three on-site rental car facilities, each operated by different companies. Two are in the terminal building itself — one on the ground level and one on the second level — and a third is located across the street in a separate garage. All three locations are within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from baggage claim.

The rental desks in the terminals are the fastest option if you want to pick up a car when ready after landing. The off-site location in the garage across the street sometimes has lower rates, but you'll need to take a shuttle to reach it. Most travelers choose the terminal locations for convenience, especially if they're unfamiliar with the airport or traveling with luggage.

Rental companies at Newark include Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, and National. Each has its own counter, and you can walk between them to compare rates if you haven't reserved in advance. However, prices are usually lower if you book online before you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Newark has three rental locations: two inside the terminal and one across the street, all reachable without leaving the airport grounds.
  • Booking online before you arrive typically costs less than renting at the counter, and you can often reserve a specific car type.
  • You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance or the option to purchase it from the rental company.
  • The rental process at the counter usually takes 10 to 20 minutes if you have all your documents ready and no issues with your reservation.
  • New Jersey requires you to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times, so confirm your coverage before you drive off the lot.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your valid driver's license — a passport alone is not enough. If your license is from outside the United States, you may also need an International Driving Permit, though most rental companies will rent to you with just a valid foreign license. Ask the rental company when you book if you're unsure.

You'll need a credit card in your own name. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but rental companies prefer credit cards because they can place a hold on the card to cover potential damage or fuel charges. The hold is usually released within a few days of return, but it ties up that money temporarily.

Bring proof of insurance. This can be a printed insurance card from your auto insurance company, a digital copy on your phone, or a screenshot of your policy. If you don't have insurance or your policy doesn't cover rental cars, the rental company will offer you their own coverage at the counter — this is optional, but you must have some form of coverage before you leave the lot.

Booking online versus renting at the counter

Online reservations are almost always cheaper than walk-up rates. You can book through the rental company's website directly, through travel sites like Kayak or Costco Travel (if you're a member), or through your credit card company's travel portal. Prices vary between sites, so it's worth checking two or three before you book.

When you book online, you lock in a rate and can often choose your car type — compact, midsize, SUV, and so on. You'll also see the total cost upfront, including taxes and fees, so there are no surprises at the counter. Most online reservations can be modified or cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours before your pickup time.

If you arrive without a reservation, you can still rent at the counter, but you'll pay the daily rate available that day, which is often higher. During peak travel times — summer weekends, holidays, spring break — counter rates can be significantly more expensive than advance bookings, and certain car types may be unavailable.

Insurance and damage coverage

Your personal auto insurance may already cover rental cars, so check your policy before you book. If it does, you don't need to purchase the rental company's coverage. Call your insurance company or log into your account online to confirm — this usually takes five minutes and can save you $15 to $30 per day.

If your personal insurance doesn't cover rentals, or if you don't have auto insurance, you must purchase coverage from the rental company. The most common option is a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers damage to the rental car from accidents, theft, or vandalism. Prices vary by company and car type, but typically range from $10 to $25 per day.

Some credit cards offer rental car coverage if you charge the entire rental to that card. Check your card's benefits before you rent — if your card covers rentals, you can decline the rental company's coverage and save money. However, credit card coverage usually has limits and may not cover certain situations, so read the fine print or call the card issuer to confirm what's covered.

Fuel and return procedures

Most rental companies at Newark offer a "full to full" fuel policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank. If you return it with less fuel, the company charges you for the missing gas at a per-gallon rate that's usually higher than what you'd pay at a gas station. Some companies offer a "pre-purchase" option where you pay for a full tank upfront; if you return the car with fuel remaining, you don't get a refund, so this option only makes sense if you plan to use most of the tank.

Gas stations near Newark are located on Routes 1 and 9, about 5 to 10 minutes from the airport. Fill up before you return the car to avoid the rental company's fuel charges. When you return, drive to the rental location, park in the designated return area, and walk into the office. An agent will inspect the car for damage, check the fuel level, and process your return — this usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

Keep your rental agreement and receipt until you receive your final credit card statement, which may take up to two weeks. This way you can verify that you were only charged for the rental period and any damage or fuel you actually owed.

Navigating the airport to the rental car locations

If you're renting from one of the terminal locations, follow signs for "Car Rental" as you exit baggage claim. The ground-level rental office is closest to the baggage area; the second-level office requires taking an elevator or stairs. Both are within the terminal building, so you won't go outside.

If you're renting from the off-site location across the street, look for the "Rental Car Shuttle" signs near the ground-level exit. Shuttles run continuously and take about 5 minutes to reach the garage. The shuttle is free and included with your rental.

If you're driving to Newark to return a rental car, follow signs for "Rental Car Return" as you approach the airport. Each rental company has its own return lane, clearly marked. You'll drive into a covered area, park, and walk into the office to complete the return process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car if I'm under 25?

Yes, but most rental companies charge an additional daily fee for drivers under 25, typically $15 to $25 per day. Some companies have a minimum age of 21; others require you to be 25 to rent without the extra charge. Check the rental company's age policy when you book, as it varies.

What happens if I return the car late?

Late returns are charged at the daily rate or an hourly rate, depending on how late you are. If you're running late, call the rental company as soon as possible — sometimes they can extend your reservation without an extra charge if they have availability. Always return by your reserved time to avoid unexpected fees.

Can I pick up a rental car and return it to a different location?

Yes, most rental companies allow one-way rentals, but there's usually a drop-off fee that varies by destination. Returning to Newark costs less than returning to a distant city. Check the one-way fee when you book — it's often $50 to $200 depending on where you're returning the car.

Do I need to buy a New Jersey toll pass before I rent?

No, but you should know that New Jersey has tolls on most highways. The rental company will provide information about tolls and how they're charged. Some companies bill tolls to your credit card after your return; others require you to pay cash at toll booths. Ask about the toll policy when you pick up the car.

What if the rental car breaks down while I'm driving?

Call the rental company's roadside information number when ready — it's on your rental agreement and usually available 24/7. They'll arrange a tow truck or send a replacement vehicle to you. You're not responsible for the breakdown unless you caused it through misuse or lack of maintenance.