Getting to and from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

The Dulles International Airport is located in Northern Virginia, about half an hour from Washington D.C. Getting out of the airport and finding your way around can be challenging.

Dulles International Airport offers ground transportation options, including shuttles and car rentals, taxis, Uber, Lyft, trains, and other public transit options such as Metrobus.

Before leaving your home, know what items are allowed in your carry-on bag, what you can pack in your checked baggage, and what items are prohibited.

Planning your transfer options before hitting the road will give you peace of mind in Washington, D. C.

Driving Directions from Dulles International Airport

The Dulles Access Highway is restricted solely to airport traffic. All vehicles on the Access Highway must be traveling to or from Dulles International Airport for airport-related purposes.

From Downtown Washington DC:

• Take exit 67 off I-66 (VA-267 W - Dulles Airport/I-495 N/Baltimore) heading westbound. From exit 67, follow the signs to the airport, approximately 16 miles away.
• From Baltimore: Take I-95 south to exit 27 (I 495 West - "Capital Beltway") and continue to Exit 45A. From exit 45A, follow the signs to the airport, approximately 13 miles away.
• From Richmond: Take I-95 north to exit 170B (I 495 North "Capital Beltway" in the direction of Tysons Corner) and merge onto Route 45. From exit 45, follow the signs to the airport, approximately 13 miles away.
• From West Virginia: Utilize I-81 to reach I-66 East. Eastbound I-66 to exit 53 (Rt. 28 North). Use Route 28 to reach the airport.
• From Roanoke, Southwest Virginia: Take I-81 north to I-66 east. Proceed east on I-66 to exit 53 (Rt. 28 North). Use Route 28 to reach the airport.
• For the convenience and direction of the riding public, passengers may approach the Airport Information Desk for transport assistance anytime.

Rental Car Services at Dulles International Airport

The car rental facility is located separately from the airport complex at Autopilot Drive. From the Terminal Baggage Claim Level, exit through Doors 2 and 4. See all rental car companies at Dulles International Airport.

Rental car shuttle buses pick up at Curb 2C or Curb 2D.

• After entering the garage on Level 1, proceed to the left and follow the overhead signs to reach the Rental Cars area.
• Confirm your arrival at the Consolidated Rental Car Facility next to Terminal Garage 1.
• When you are ready to hand over your vehicle to the airport car rental company, drive to the airport and follow the signs that say "Rental Car Return."
• Before returning the rented car, ensure all personal belongings have been removed.

For further information, passengers can contact the car rental company.

Ride Shares at Dulles International Airport

The rideshares pickup and drop-off area are on the Ground Level, accessible through Doors 2, 4, and 6.

Passengers can make ridesharing reservations by downloading the company's app onto their mobile device and coordinating directly with the driver of their vehicle.

They can also submit a ride request a few days before their flight to avoid any inconvenience.

It is acceptable for passengers to request that the driver provide identification documentation and booking records. It is done for the passengers' protection.

The area designated for drop-off is located on the terminal level set for arrivals.

Taxis at Dulles International Airport

Upon exit from the Baggage Claim area, proceed to the Ground Transportation Center at the lower level outside Door 2 and Door 6 toward the taxi stand in front of the airport terminal building.

The average price for a Dulles airport taxi to downtown D.C. is around $70.00. Additional charges may apply depending on your final destination, the number of passengers, use of toll roads, or the specific day you're traveling. More information about taxis at Dulles International Airport.

It is customary to give the driver a tip (15-20% of the fare) for good service.

Keep a record of the cab company, vehicle number, and the driver's name when traveling to and from the airport, just in case you leave something behind.

Trains at Dulles International Airport

The railway station is in Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station. It is approximately 15 minutes away from the airport.

To get there, the Silver Line Express Bus provides a convenient, economical connection from Washington Dulles International Airport. Additional information about train services at Dulles International Airport.

Catch the bus at the Airport Arrivals Level Door 4, in the center of the Terminal Building, for $5.00.

Buses at Dulles International Airport

Wait for the bus at the front door of Arrivals Level Door 4, in the center of the Terminal Building.

Silver Line Express Buses run 15 to 20 minutes from the Airport to Wiehle-Reston East Metrorail Station. Bus fares start at $5.00 one way. Further information about buses to and from Dulles International Airport.

Airport Shuttle Service at Dulles International Airport

A good selection of hotels in the area offers shuttle services. But for you to take advantage of certain services, reservations maybe be necessary.

It is recommended that passengers check with their local hotel to determine whether or not this amenity is offered at their place of lodging.

At the Ground Transportation Center, passengers can board shuttles to be transported to their destinations.

The Arrival Level serves as the location of the center for luggage drop-off.

Parking at Dulles International Airport

Customers have various options available to them when it comes to parking at the airport.

The parking garages are available at all times of the day and night. See more information about long and short-term parking at Dulles International Airport.

Shuttle buses are readily available to transport passengers from the parking lots to the entrances and exits of the airport terminal building.

The facility is open 24/7.