Amtrak Auto Train: Schedule, Stops, & Route Guide

Take your car and skip the I-95 stress with Amtrak’s Auto Train!

If you’re considering a road trip without all the driving, check out Amtrak’s Auto Train. This unique service allows you to travel comfortably between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, with your vehicle.

Whether you’re an experienced rail traveler or trying Amtrak for the first time, this guide offers everything you need to know—from booking your trip to boarding, as well as accommodations and what to expect upon arrival.

Station Info & Hours

Lorton, VA: 8006 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA 22079
Sanford, FL: 600 South Persimmon Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771

Station Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (Hours can change subject to delays)

Booking a Trip on the Auto Train

If planning a trip along the East Coast, consider taking Amtrak’s Auto Train to enhance your journey.

Booking the Auto Train is easy and can be done in four ways: visiting the official Amtrak Auto Train booking page, using the Amtrak App, stopping by the Auto Train Stations, or calling 1-877-SKIP-I-95, the dedicated Auto Train phone number.

If you book over the phone, use this number instead of the regular Amtrak number.

Can you make a reservation for the Auto Train without having a vehicle to transport?

To book a ticket on Amtrak’s Auto Train, you must include a vehicle, such as a car, truck, SUV, or motorcycle, in your reservation. If you don’t have a car, you must be accompanied by someone who does.

This requirement exists because the Auto Train doesn’t connect to other trains or public transportation, making it inaccessible to travelers without vehicles.

Do I need to check in for the Amtrak Auto Train?

Yes! Unlike other Amtrak trains, you need to check in person. After checking in your vehicle, go to the ticket desk to get your boarding pass and make meal reservations.

Auto Train Vehicle Boarding Times

This train has two schedules: one for checking in your car and the other for your time on the rails!

Remember: You must arrive at the station early, as there is a firm check-in cut-off.

For more information, please refer to the Auto Train Vehicle and Check-In Requirements.

Auto Train Schedule

If the Auto Train is ready early, CSX may allow it to depart ahead of schedule. Here is a link to a printable version of Amtrak’s Auto Train Schedule. This information was last checked on March 13, 2026, from Amtrak.com.

The Other Auto Train “Stop.”

The Auto Train makes a service stop in Florence, SC, where locomotives are refueled, and conductors and engineers change shifts.

This stop is usually a chance for passengers to stretch their legs, but before leaving the train, check with the conductors or attendants to find out how much time you have.

If you decide to step off the train, stay nearby. The train departs soon after the refueling and crew changes.

The engineer usually signals the departure with a horn toot, and the conductors give you the all-aboard signal before the train leaves. If you miss the departure, your car will travel without you, delaying your trip. You may even have to wait 24 hours for the next train and explain to Amtrak why you missed your ride. Your car could get lonely traveling without you.

Auto Train On-Time Performance

In June 2026, the Auto Train recorded a Customer On-Time Performance (OTP) of 58.4%, compared to a trailing 12-month average of 66.3%. Both figures remain below Amtrak’s minimum standard of 80% for long-distance trains.

In June, passengers who arrived late experienced an average delay of 95 minutes. Over the past 12 months, late passengers had an average delay of 83 minutes.

The Auto Train runs between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida, using two host railroads. The primary causes of delay differ by segment.

• CSX: Freight train interference was the largest delay category in June, followed by interference from other passenger trains.
• Florida Rail: Commuter train interference caused the most delay, followed by signal-related delays.

June’s customer OTP was lower than the Auto Train’s trailing twelve-month average. Passengers must also allow extra time to unload their vehicles after arrival, so they should plan hotel check-ins, meals, or other time-sensitive activities accordingly.

These preliminary figures are taken from Amtrak’s June 2026 Host Railroad Report. Customer OTP assesses whether passengers arrived on time at their destination, rather than whether the train arrived at every station according to schedule.

Baggage on the Auto Train

The Auto Train does not offer checked baggage, as your vehicle serves as your baggage car.

Therefore, I suggest bringing only essential items on board, such as medications, a change of clothing, toiletries, chargers, an extension cord, and some snacks and beverages. Additionally, bring extra cash to purchase refreshments from the café car and some entertainment to keep you occupied during the journey.

Coach Seating on the Amtrak Auto Train

Coach class on the Auto Train offers amenities designed for a comfortable journey.

Amtrak offers coach-class passengers a reclining seat with ample legroom, a fold-down tray, a footrest, and individual reading lights. The back pocket of each seat houses 120V grounded (three-prong) outlets, and overhead luggage storage is available.

Upper- and lower-level seating options provide a pleasant, relaxing travel experience.

Coach passengers have access to a café car but not a dining car.

Sleeper Car (Rooms) on the Auto Train

There are several advantages to getting a room on the train; here are a few key considerations.

• Amenities: Enjoy meals, pillows, fresh linens, and towels included with your reservation.
• Dedicated Service: A car attendant will assist you and your fellow passengers in the sleeping car throughout your journey.
• Convenient Room Features:
  • At least one outlet and a table between the seats.
  • Many tables include a built-in checkered board—bring chess or checkers pieces for entertainment.
  • There are lights and nightlights in each room.
• Access to Showers: Bedrooms feature private, in-room showers, while other sleeping accommodations provide shared shower facilities.
• Storage Options: Rooms feature spaces for hanging jackets and clothes, with hangers provided for added convenience.

Types of Rooms Offered on Amtrak’s Auto Train

The following information provides details about the different types of rooms available for travelers:

• Roomette: a room type that is great for solo travelers or a cozy fit for two people.
  • It is available on both the upper and lower levels.
• Bedroom: The bedroom is on the upper level and can accommodate up to two people.
  • A suite is also available.
• Family Bedroom: A lower-level room that accommodates two adults and two children.
• Accessible Room: A room for travelers with mobility issues and their companions.
  • If you require an accessible room, please call to reserve it in advance.

The Auto Train is the only train that has regular and deluxe sleepers.

Amtrak Auto Train Sleeper Car Layout

Deluxe Sleeper on the Auto Train

Accessibility on This Train

If you have mobility issues, you have two options on this train.

If you prefer coach class, lower-level seats are on the same level as the bathrooms. However, if you need something from the café, you may need help.

Those who want a sleeper room have several options, depending on their specific needs. If you do not have a scooter, you may opt for a lower-level roomette or reserve the Accessible bedroom, depending on your particular needs. You will need to call Amtrak to reserve an accessible room, but availability is limited.

When booking, ensure Amtrak is aware that you require assistance and review the Amtrak accessible service page.

See Where Your Room or Coach Car is on the Auto Train.

Couch passengers receive their seat assignments on the day of travel, while those with sleeping accommodations receive their room and car number upon completing their reservation.

Food on the Amtrak Auto Train

Your food options will vary depending on whether you are in coach class or a sleeping car.

Coach passengers can purchase food and drinks from the café car, but they will not have access to the dining car. Sleeping car passengers have access to both a café and a dining car, with meals included in their fare.

Café Car

One of my favorite activities on a train journey is walking to the café car for a special treat, meal, or beverage. 

You can bring your food and drinks on board the train. However, Amtrak cannot store or heat your food, so please plan accordingly. 

Please note that you can only consume alcohol that you brought on board in your sleeping accommodation. If traveling in a coach, please leave the alcohol in your car.

The café car offers a variety of hot and cold meal options, snacks, and hot, cold, and alcoholic beverages. Playing cards can also be a fun way to pass the time on your journey.

Meals for Auto Train sleeper car passengers

Passengers traveling in Amtrak sleeping cars can enjoy traditional dining prepared by the chef. They can eat in the dining car or in their rooms. 

The meals include non-alcoholic beverages and a variety of hot and cold breakfast options. The dinner menu comprises a main course, a roll, a salad, and a dessert. Additionally, the first adult beverage is on Amtrak.

Vehicle Requirements for Amtrak Auto Train

If your family car is average-sized, it will fit on the train; however, there are auto restrictions, and every vehicle requires a reservation.

Factory-model automobiles, vans, trucks, SUVs, and two-wheel motorcycles can ride on the Auto Train. Dual-wheel vehicles, gull wings, or scissor doors are prohibited. Unique cars are permitted, but with certain limitations.

Special Vehicles

Each Auto Train allows for a limited number of specialized vehicles for a fee. Amtrak may accept small trailers, limousines, jet skis, trikes, and choppers.

Can-Am motorcycles, Rewaco trikes, and Polaris Slingshots are not permitted.

To book a trip with a unique vehicle, call 1-877-SKIP-I-95 (1-877-754-7495).

Does your vehicle have a roof rack or a rear rack?

Roof-mounted racks are permitted if they are factory-installed and remain empty during the trip. Temporary luggage or bicycle racks attached to the roof are not allowed. Roof-mounted ones will count toward your vehicle’s maximum height requirements.

Bicycle racks must be attached only to the back of the vehicle. Bicycles are not allowed on board. Amtrak requires you to sign a loss or damage waiver for bicycles transported on the car. Bikes and racks count toward your vehicle’s maximum length and width requirements.

You must remove the luggage racks from the top of your vehicle and store them inside the car before check-in.

Tips from Amtrak For You And Your Car

Amtrak suggests a few things to help you make the most of your trip.

• Allow sufficient time to reach the station, accounting for traffic conditions in D.C. and Orlando. There are no exceptions to the check-in times.
• Pack a carry-on bag with your valuables, medication, and essentials for the night.
  • Leave your luggage in the car, but bring a carry-on bag for your trip.
  • The Auto Train does not offer checked baggage, since you can keep your belongings in your vehicle.
  • You will not have access to your car during the journey.
• Deactivate the car alarm system before you drop off your car.
  • Failure to do so may result in a dead battery if your alarm goes off while traveling.
    • If you watch videos of the Auto Train, you may sometimes see cars owned by people who did not follow this advice.
• Consider Priority Offloading to ensure your vehicle is among the first 30 off the train upon arrival.
  • Subject to availability,
  • Priority Offloading is available when you purchase your ticket or at station check-in.

Check the official Amtrak Auto Train page for the most up-to-date vehicle information.

First-Time Rider Tips for the Auto Train

Taking the Auto Train for the first time? Here are some helpful tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free:

Arrive Early

There is a strict deadline for vehicle check-in. If you are late, you may be turned away, even if you have a reservation. Additionally, ensure your vehicle meets Amtrak’s size and condition requirements.

Pack Smart

Leave your main luggage in your vehicle and bring a small overnight bag on board. Since this is an overnight trip, pack the essentials.

• Change of clothes
• Toiletries
• Medications
• Phone chargers
• Entertainment (books, tablet, etc.)
• A great attitude!

Dining Options

• Sleeper Car Passengers enjoy traditional dining included with their fare.
• Coach Passengers can purchase food and drinks from the Café Car — so be sure to bring your wallet!

Food & Drinks

You are welcome to bring your snacks and beverages on board.

• Alcohol: Only sleeper car passengers may consume alcohol in their private rooms.
• Alcohol is available for purchase for all passengers and may be enjoyed in designated areas of the train.

Auto Train Quick FAQs

Why doesn’t the Auto Train have a baggage car? Passengers can keep their luggage in their vehicles, so checking bags is unnecessary.

Amtrak transports vehicles using standard auto-rack cars, which are covered but not climate-controlled. These cars also feature ventilation holes.

No pets are allowed on the Amtrak Auto Train; check with Amtrak about service animals.

If You Have Questions About the Amtrak Auto Train

If you have questions about the schedule, please call Amtrak’s Auto Train hotline at 1-877-SKIP-I-95 (1-877-754-7495).