What is the Amtrak Auto Train?
The Amtrak Auto Train is a unique, non-stop 855-mile passenger train service that transports passengers along with their personal vehicles—including cars, SUVs, vans, pickup trucks, motorcycles, and jet skis. Operating daily between Lorton, Virginia (just 20 miles south of Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, Florida (near Orlando), it bypasses over 800 miles of stressful Interstate-95 traffic, toll booths, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle.
Key Auto Train Rule
Every booking MUST include a vehicle. Passengers cannot travel on the Auto Train as foot passengers without bringing an approved vehicle (car, SUV, motorcycle, or truck).
Auto Train Schedule & Daily Timeline
The Auto Train operates daily departures simultaneously from both terminal stations:
- 11:30 AM: Vehicle check-in opens at Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL terminals.
- 2:00 PM: Mandatory check-in deadline for motorcycles and specialized vehicles.
- 2:30 PM: Mandatory check-in deadline for standard passenger cars and SUVs. Vehicles arriving after 2:30 PM cannot be loaded.
- 4:00 PM: Train departs Lorton and Sanford terminals for overnight run.
- 8:59 AM: Scheduled arrival at destination next morning. Vehicle offloading begins shortly after arrival.
Vehicle Dimensions & Allowed Vehicle Types
Amtrak accepts a wide range of personal transportation vehicles. When booking through our travel desk, you will provide your vehicle make, model, and year to ensure proper rack allocation:
- Standard Automobiles: Max height 65 inches; max ground clearance 4 inches.
- Extended/Oversized Vehicles (SUVs, Trucks, Vans): Max height 85 inches. Factory roof racks allowed if empty.
- Motorcycles & Trikes: Must be tied down in specialized auto rack carriers (arriving by 2:00 PM).
- Priority Offloading: Upgrade option allowing your vehicle to be one of the first 30 vehicles offloaded upon arrival at Sanford or Lorton.
Passenger Accommodation Options
While your vehicle rests securely in the enclosed double-decker auto racks at the back of the train, you enjoy comfortable passenger car accommodations:
1. Reserved Coach Class
Spacious, wide reclining seats with leg rests, footrests, fold-down tray tables, and individual reading lights. Free Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat. Café car access available for meal purchases.
2. Superliner Roomette
A cozy private room for up to 2 adults with opposing reclining seats during the day that convert into lower and upper sleeping bunks at night. Includes complimentary hot dinner and cooked breakfast in the Dining Car. Shared restroom and shower facilities in carriage.
3. Superliner Bedroom
Offers double the floor space of a Roomette, accommodating 2–3 adults with a comfortable sofa, private enclosed toilet, vanity sink, and private enclosed shower inside your cabin. Includes full complimentary Dining Car meals and complimentary wine with dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I access my car during the train trip?
No. Once your vehicle is driven into the autorack enclosed carriage, it remains locked and inaccessible for the entire duration of the journey. Be sure to pack an overnight duffel bag with your clothes, medicines, and toilet items to bring into the passenger car.
What can I leave in my vehicle?
You can leave heavy luggage, golf clubs, suitcases, and boxes inside your trunk or back seat at no extra baggage charge. However, do not leave valuables, pets, or perishable food items in your car.
Are meals included with Auto Train tickets?
Passengers in Sleeping Car accommodations (Roomettes and Bedrooms) receive full complimentary meals in the Dining Car, including warm dinners with dessert and breakfast. Coach passengers can purchase food, snacks, and beverages from the onboard Café Car.
How early should I book Auto Train tickets?
Auto Train fares operate on dynamic tier pricing. Because peak seasonal demand is high (especially for snowbirds traveling south in autumn/winter and north in spring), booking 4 to 8 weeks in advance is highly recommended to secure roomettes and lower fares.
