VC Bird International Airport Car Rental

Rent a Car at V.C. Bird International Airport: Essential Tips

How to Find the Car Rental Desk at ANU

After landing at V.C. Bird International Airport and collecting your baggage, exit customs and proceed to the arrivals hall. Car rental desks are conveniently located on-site, primarily in the area between the main terminal and the adjacent older terminal building. Most major international and local rental companies have dedicated help desks directly inside the arrivals terminal for immediate assistance. Vehicles are parked in designated rental lots just steps outside the terminal, requiring no shuttle service.

Documents You Must Carry at Pickup

To collect your rental car at V.C. Bird Airport, you must present your valid home-country driving licence, your passport, and a credit card in the lead driver’s name for the security deposit hold. Crucially, all drivers must obtain a Temporary Antiguan Driving Permit, which costs US$20 (or EC$50) and is valid for three months. The rental company will process this local permit for you on the spot at the time of pickup using your home licence and passport.

International Driving Permit (IDP) at ANU — Who Needs One

If your home-country driving licence is not printed in English, you must carry a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) or an official English translation alongside your national licence. Note that an IDP does not replace the requirement to purchase the US$20 local Antiguan driving permit; it merely serves as a recognized translation of your foreign licence.

Minimum Age and Driving Experience

The minimum age to rent a car in Antigua is typically 21 years, though some suppliers require drivers to be at least 25. Drivers must have held a valid licence for a minimum of one year. Renters aged 21 to 24 may be subject to a young driver surcharge, which varies by supplier. The maximum rental age accepted by most companies is 75 years.

Credit Card Deposit — What to Expect

A pre-authorisation hold is placed on your credit card at the time of vehicle collection. Deposit amounts at ANU typically range from US$125 to US$300, depending on the vehicle class and the supplier’s insurance policies. Some local agencies may offer reduced or no-deposit options if you opt for their full-coverage insurance waiver. The hold is generally released within 7 to 14 business days after the car is returned undamaged. Debit cards are rarely accepted for deposits, so a credit card is strongly recommended.

Driving Conditions from V.C. Bird Airport

In Antigua, you must drive on the left side of the road. The route from the airport to St. John’s is well-maintained and straightforward. However, beyond the main highways, many rural and coastal roads can be narrow, winding, and feature frequent speed bumps due to pedestrian activity and wildlife. A compact SUV or small 4x4 is highly recommended for exploring hilly or rugged areas like Shirley Heights or the Fig Tree Drive region.

Speed Limits and Traffic Rules from Day One

Speed limits in Antigua are strictly enforced and relatively low: 20 mph (32 km/h) in built-up town areas and 40 mph (64 km/h) on main highways. Always watch for posted signs, as limits can drop suddenly near schools or villages. Horn use is common and culturally accepted as a friendly warning on blind corners. The legal blood alcohol limit is strictly enforced, and it is highly advised to avoid drinking and driving entirely.

Fuel and Petrol Stations Near V.C. Bird Airport

Petrol stations (such as Rubis and Texaco) are located immediately adjacent to the airport along the Sir George Walter Highway. Fuel in Antigua is sold by the gallon. As of mid-2026, regular petrol costs approximately EC$13.50–EC$14.50 per gallon (roughly US$5.00–US$5.40 per gallon, or US$1.30–US$1.40 per litre). Most stations are full-service (attendants will pump the fuel for you). While major credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some Eastern Caribbean (EC) dollars or US dollars in cash is advisable for smaller, rural stations.

One-Way Rentals and Inter-Island Travel

One-way car rental between V.C. Bird Airport and St. John’s downtown or other parishes in Antigua is often available, sometimes with a small drop-off fee. Important note on Barbuda: Standard rental agreements from car rental companies in Antigua and Barbuda almost universally prohibit taking their vehicles on the ferry to Barbuda due to insurance restrictions. If you plan to visit Barbuda, you must leave your rental car at the ferry terminal in St. John’s and arrange a separate rental or taxi upon arrival in Codrington, Barbuda.

What Happens if Your Flight Is Delayed

Final Rentals partner suppliers at V.C. Bird Airport monitor incoming flight schedules in real time. If your flight is delayed, your reservation is typically protected for a grace period of 1 to 2 hours past the original pickup time at no additional charge. For delays beyond this window, contact your rental provider directly using the number in your booking confirmation to adjust your pickup time.

About V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU)

• IATA Code: ANU (ICAO: TAPA)

• Also known as: Antigua Airport

• Location: 8 km (5 miles) northeast of St. John’s, the capital city of Antigua and Barbuda

• Facilities: Single main passenger terminal (with an adjacent older terminal building occasionally used for specific operations).

• Traffic: Handles approximately 1.5 million passengers annually, serving as the primary aviation gateway to the Eastern Caribbean.