Car rental Atlantic City, NJ

Top tips for renting a car in Atlantic City

The bright lights and historic charm of Atlantic City make it easy to get swept up in the atmosphere. Let yourself be fully immersed by brushing up on the New Jersey road rules. Here are our top tips for driving, parking, and fueling up in Atlantic City.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Atlantic City?

Depending on when you go to Atlantic City, the driving experience can differ. The roads themselves are easy to navigate, but traffic can get busy on weekends or in summer. Tourists flood the boardwalk and casinos and walk everywhere, so be extra cautious of pedestrians when driving.

If you're not used to driving in New Jersey, one thing that might throw you off is the jughandles. Instead of turning left at an intersection, you take a loop to the right first. It can be confusing at first, but you get used to it pretty quickly.

The roads can get icy in the winter, but local authorities clear snow quickly, so you probably won't need snow chains. An ice scraper can come in handy for your windshield, though, so you always have a clear view of the road ahead.

What is parking like in Atlantic City?

Atlantic City, New Jersey has many parking options, including lots near the boardwalk, secure parking garages, and airport parking.

Parking can be a bit chaotic in Atlantic City, but if you're patient, you'll find a spot easily enough. There's plenty of parking near the boardwalk, including paid lots on Pacific Avenue and Missouri Avenue. Some casinos offer free or discounted parking, and if you're staying in a hotel, it usually offers parking too.

If you're staying in Atlantic City for a while, it can be useful to apply for a resident's parking permit. That gives you more parking options, so you won't have to rely on the paid parking around the boardwalk and casinos.

Are there toll roads in Atlantic City?

Yes, there is a toll road in Atlantic City, New Jersey called the Atlantic City Expressway. Don't worry — if you rent on Turo, your car will come toll-ready.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Atlantic City?

You'll find plenty of places to fill up or charge an electric vehicle across Atlantic City, from stations near the boardwalk to spots around the casinos. If you're renting an EV, charging options are widely available around the city, including along the Boardwalk.

Do I need to rent a car in Atlantic City?

Yes, we definitely recommend renting a car in Atlantic City. It's quick and easy to walk around the central attractions, but a car is useful for exploring the area and visiting nearby towns. If you want to visit places like Cape May or Absecon, it's handy to have a rental vehicle.