DCA to IAD: how to transfer in Washington
Best way to get from Reagan National to Dulles — fares, times, and what to avoid.
Silver Line Metro (DCA → L'Enfant/Metro Center → IAD)
One transfer downtown. Silver Line runs direct to IAD every 15 min.
There is no direct airport shuttle bus. Old '5A Metrobus' from L'Enfant no longer runs.
Other ways to make the transfer
Uber / Lyft
Fastest off-peak. Beltway traffic can be brutal 3–7pm.
Washington Flyer taxi (from IAD only) + regular cab
IAD-side taxis are metered flat-rate to DC.
Before you go
- Silver Line only reaches IAD — from DCA you must transfer to Silver at Metro Center or Rosslyn
- Weekday 3:30–7pm on the Beltway (I-495) adds 30–60 min
Full airport guides
This guide covers the transfer in both directions — the route, fares, and times are the same DCA ↔ IAD.
FAQ
What's the fastest way from DCA to IAD?
Silver Line Metro (DCA → L'Enfant/Metro Center → IAD) — about 80–110 min for US$6–8. One transfer downtown. Silver Line runs direct to IAD every 15 min.
How much time should I leave between flights at DCA and IAD?
We recommend at least 4 hours door to door, accounting for baggage claim, transfer, check-in, and security.
How far is IAD from DCA?
About 45 km across Washington.
What should I avoid when transferring DCA to IAD?
There is no direct airport shuttle bus. Old '5A Metrobus' from L'Enfant no longer runs.