Car Rental FAQs for Consumers

It is simple to rent a car if you have an understanding of the rental process. You need to provide basic information to the car rental service so they can reserve a car for you. Each rental service has specific eligibility requirements and rules you must follow to be a customer. The following information provides a basic summary of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you with cheap car rental.

Can Anyone Rent a Car?

Not everyone is allowed to lease or drive a rental car. There are minimum age requirements. For most rental companies, that age is 25, although some companies allow drivers to be as young as 21 years old. The exact age is determined by the company or the state in which the company is located.

How Much Will I Be Charged?

Several factors determine your rental rates including estimated mileage, risk of theft or damage to the car, and additional insurance purchased from the car rental company. If you plan to have a secondary driver, a surcharge will be included on your bill. You will be given a car with a full tank of gas and are expected to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas. If you do not, you will be charged an additional fee to replenish the gas tank. Discounts can help defray rental costs and are deducted from your total rental cost.

Can I Pay With Cash?

While some companies accept cash payments, the majority require a credit card to reserve a car for you. You may be able to use your credit card for reservation and then pay with cash when you pick up the rental car. Be prepared to make a deposit of several hundred dollars if you plan to use cash. Cash customers may also be asked to allow a credit check or provide additional proof of identity.

What Does the Rental Service Require from Me?

There is general information that all drivers must submit before a car will be rented to them. This includes a valid driver's license and proof of car insurance. Although many rental companies do not require the insurance, it is legally required in most areas so it is a good idea to have it handy. Rental companies may use your driver's license to verify your driving record. They can decline your request for a rental car if you are a high-risk driver. This is more likely to happen with smaller car rental services. Because their fleet is smaller, they have less disposal revenue to repair or replace damaged vehicles so they are more cautious about leasing their vehicles. The rental service will also want to know where you plan to drive the car. They are particularly interested in neighborhoods with high car theft rates or more car accidents. This information may be used to determine your rate. To learn more about cheap car rental services, you can request a copy of the rental company's policies.