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Between the White House, U.S. Capitol, Smithsonian museums, and the National Mall, DC is packed with attractions—and also strict rules about where a charter bus in D.C. can drive, park, and load passengers.
At CharterUP, our mission is to simplify group transportation. With instant booking, real-time bus tracking, dynamic pricing, and transparent availability, we help groups secure the right charter bus rental in D.C. in under a minute. To make your trip even easier, we’ve outlined the key details about bus parking in Washington, D.C., including unloading zones, idling restrictions, and the best places to park your motorcoach.
General Rules for Charter Bus Parking in D.C.
Before diving into exact locations, here are the basics every charter bus in D.C. must follow:
Do:
Always check posted signs before parking—rules change based on time of day.
Unload passengers only in designated motorcoach zones.
Follow all routing maps issued by the District Department of Transportation (DDOT).
Obey idling restrictions: no more than 3 minutes (5 minutes if below 32°F).
Don’t:
Double park or block Metrobus stops.
Unload in commercial loading zones.
Park near schools, hospitals, playgrounds, or residential areas.
For the latest updates, operators can call the D.C. Motorcoach Hotline at 1-855-67-BUSES (28737), open Monday–Friday.
Charter Bus Routing in D.C.
For your safety and to avoid entering security-restricted streets, motorcoaches must stick to designated routes. The DDOT provides interactive routing maps to ensure safe access to landmarks like the Capitol, National Mall, and Georgetown.
During the city’s peak tourism season (April–August), restrictions increase. Plan ahead by reviewing the DDOT’s routing maps and calling the hotline before your trip.
Charter Bus Permits in D.C.
Most full-size buses will need a Trip Permit from the D.C. DMV. Applications are available online, or operators can call 202-729-7083 with questions.
Best Places for Charter Bus Parking in D.C.
Location: Main Level of Union Station Parking Garage
Capacity: 32 motorcoach spaces
Cost: $60 (off-peak) / $75 (peak season)
Reservation: Required; email businfo@uspgllc.com
Tip: All loading/unloading must be done at the bus deck, not in front of Union Station.
Cost: $50 per bus
Good For: Groups visiting the U.S. Capitol or Supreme Court
Benefit: Wide lots with easy maneuverability
3. Buzzard’s Point Lot (1880 2nd Street SW)
Near Nationals Park & Audi Field
Convenient for groups attending games or events in Southwest D.C.
4. Street Parking Options
New York Ave NW (near White House): Limited short-term spaces ($6.90/hour, 1-hour limit during weekdays).
L’Enfant Plaza SW: 12 spaces ($6.90/hour, 2-hour daytime limit).
Frontage Road SW: 6 spaces, close to HUD and the National Mall.
Virginia Ave SW (Museum of the Bible): 7 spaces near the Mall & Waterfront.
For more information, refer to DDOTs pickup and drop-off site.
Drop-Off & Unloading Near the National Mall
Designated loading zones are posted throughout the Mall and Memorial Parks. Drivers must use these spots rather than pulling directly in front of museums or monuments. After unloading, buses must leave the zone and park elsewhere.
Parking Outside D.C.
For groups looking to use Metro and private shuttle buses, parking outside the city may be more convenient:
Greenbelt Metro Station (MD): 60 oversized vehicle spaces, $8.95/day.
Hotels in Alexandria, VA, or Arlington, VA often allow bus parking for overnight stays.
CharterUP Advantage: Smarter Charter Bus Rentals in D.C.
Planning a group trip to D.C. doesn’t have to be stressful. With CharterUP, you can:
Compare vehicles instantly across our verified operator network.
Book a charter bus rental in D.C. in minutes.
Track your vehicle in real time for peace of mind.
Enjoy transparent pricing with no hidden surprises.
Whether you’re riding in a school trip shuttle bus visiting the Smithsonian, gathering an employee charter bus for a D.C. conference, or a tour group exploring the National Mall, CharterUP helps you secure the right bus and gives you the knowledge to navigate the city like a pro.
Final Tips for Tour Bus Parking in D.C.
Always plan routes and parking before arrival.
Confirm regulations during peak tourism season.
Budget for parking fees in Union Station, RFK, or street meters.
Use unloading areas responsibly to avoid fines.
With a little planning—and CharterUP’s charter bus rental guide at your side—you can make your group trip to D.C. seamless, efficient, and compliant with local motorcoach regulations.