United States Car Rental : An Insider’s Guide To Renting A Car In America

The United States is home to several large car rental companies that operate across the country as well as many local and regional rental providers. The five major national companies are Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget and Alamo. Each company has its own set of vehicles, policies and pricing structures. Prospective renters should consider factors like vehicle availability, rental locations, additional fees, insurance coverage and frequent renter programs when deciding between companies. Popular rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz and Avis have large fleets of cars available at major airports and city locations nationwide. They tend to be more expensive than budget brands like Budget and Alamo but offer benefits like membership programs. Local and regional car rental outfits sometimes have better rates for one-way rentals within limited geographic areas. Online services like Turo allow individuals to list privately-owned vehicles for rent as an alternative to traditional companies.

Booking A Reservation

Most major car rental companies allow reservations to be made online or by phone. It’s generally cheaper to book reservations in advance, especially during busy travel seasons. Renters should pay close attention to rental qualifiers like age requirements, drivers to be listed on the contract and any additional fees. Confirmation emails will include a reservation number for reference during pickup. Some policies charge cancellation or no-show fees if plans change, so flexibility is important when booking.

Picking Up The United States Car Rental

An valid driver’s license, major credit or debit card and confirmation information is needed when picking up a rental car. The rental agent will inspect the vehicle and note any existing damage before renters take possession. Comprehensive photos can protect renters from liability for pre-existing issues not documented. Renters should receive information on insurance coverage, drop-off details and refueling policies as well. It’s a good idea to test basic vehicle functions like lights, signals and brakes before leaving the rental lot.  

Rental Car Insurance Coverage

Most major rental companies offer different levels of insurance coverage that can be declined, added or waived by renters. The basic rate usually includes only mandatory liability coverage required by law. This protects other parties from financial responsibility in an accident but leaves renters liable for vehicle damage not covered by their personal insurance. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) adds coverage for damage to the rental car itself from collision or rollover accidents. Some credit cards offer primary CDW benefits automatically when rentals are paid for with that card. Other insurance like personal automobile policies may also extend coverage. Comparing available options helps determine the most cost effective choice.

Driving And Operating The Rental Car

Renters should familiarize themselves with vehicle features, controls and safety systems before driving. Seat adjustments, mirrors, climate and entertainment controls vary between makes and models. Vehicle stickers or manuals provide guidance. Rental contracts specify authorized drivers and where the car may be driven. Leaving the assigned state or country often voids coverage without permission. Speed limits, distracted and impaired driving laws apply to rental vehicles same as personal ones. Harsh driving can invalidate insurance claims if an accident occurs. Obeying traffic signs and signals reduces risk of penalties. Things like curb rash, door dings and small accidents may incur repair or administrative charges, so care is advised when parking or maneuvering. Refueling policies and drop-off fuel levels must be followed to avoid fueling fees.

Returning The Rental Car

Most rentals conclude with returning the vehicle to the original rental office, airport location or authorized drop box within posted hours. Check-out involves inspecting the car again and noting any new damage. Fuel levels are verified and tanks refilled if needed to avoid surcharges. All accessories, tools and documents issued during pickup should be accounted for to end the contract. Renters exit the lot and receive a receipt or e-confirmation putting the rental period to a close. Overall condition reports help resolve liability issues for any post-rental inspection discrepancies.

Popular Rental Locations In The US

Major airports with significant car rental operations are obvious choices like Los Angeles International, Hartsfield-Jackson (Atlanta), O’Hare (Chicago), Dallas-Fort Worth and John F. Kennedy International (New York). City centers also concentrate fleets near downtown hubs or transportation centers. Areas like Manhattan, Miami, San Francisco, Washington D.C. and Boston offer easy access. The vacation destinations abound with rental counters near hotels, along highways and surrounding attractions. Places such as Orlando, Las Vegas, Hawaii, Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and coastal California all rely heavily on car rentals for convenient touring. Following rental company procedures results in smooth, worry-free leasing experiences across the diverse regions of the United States.