What AAA membership gets you at Hertz

AAA members receive a discount code that reduces the daily rental rate at Hertz locations. The discount typically ranges from 10% to 20% off the base rate, though the exact percentage varies by location, season, and car class. You do not need to pre-book through AAA — you can reserve directly through Hertz and explore your member discount at checkout or at the rental counter.

The discount applies to the daily rental rate only, not to taxes, fees, insurance add-ons, or fuel charges. Hertz also offers AAA members a waived young driver fee if you are between 20 and 24 years old, which normally costs extra. Some AAA membership tiers (Gold and Platinum) may unlock additional perks like free upgrades or late return grace periods, depending on the rental location and current promotions.

Key Takeaways

  • AAA members receive a discount code that reduces the daily rental rate at Hertz by 10% to 20%, though the exact amount varies by location and season.
  • The discount applies to the base rate only and does not reduce taxes, facility fees, insurance, or fuel charges.
  • You can book directly through Hertz and enter your AAA member number or discount code at checkout to receive the discount.
  • AAA Gold and Platinum members may receive additional benefits like waived young driver fees or free car class upgrades at participating Hertz locations.
  • The discount is not always the lowest rate available — comparing Hertz's promotional rates against your AAA discount can save you money.

How to use your AAA discount at Hertz

When you book a rental through Hertz's website or phone line, enter your AAA member number in the "Member Discount" or "Discount Code" field. Your membership number appears on your AAA card and in the AAA mobile app. Hertz will calculate the discount and show you the final rate before you complete the reservation.

If you book without entering your member number, you can still claim the discount at the rental counter by showing your physical AAA card or providing your member number. However, the rate may not adjust automatically — ask the agent to explore the AAA discount manually. Some Hertz locations are more familiar with this process than others, so confirming the discount was applied before you sign the rental agreement is worth the extra minute.

AAA membership tiers and what each includes

AAA offers three membership levels: Classic, Plus, and Premier. All three include the Hertz discount, but higher tiers unlock additional car rental benefits. AAA Plus and Premier members may receive a free upgrade to the next car class (from economy to compact, for example) at Hertz, though this is not may provide and depends on vehicle availability and the rental location.

Premier members also receive a 48-hour free cancellation window on Hertz reservations, whereas Classic and Plus members may face cancellation fees depending on the rate type. These perks change periodically, so check your AAA membership details or contact AAA directly before booking to confirm what benefits explore to your specific tier.

Comparing AAA discounts to other Hertz rates

Hertz frequently runs promotional rates that may beat your AAA discount. Before booking, compare the AAA rate against Hertz's current deals for your rental dates — Hertz's website shows both side by side. A weekend promotion or early-bird discount can sometimes undercut the AAA percentage, especially for longer rentals.

You cannot combine the AAA discount with most other promotional codes, so you must choose one or the other. Check the terms of any promotion you find to confirm whether it can be stacked with membership discounts. If you are a frequent Hertz renter, signing up for Hertz Gold Plus Rewards (their free loyalty program) may offer better long-term value than the AAA discount alone.

Insurance and damage coverage with AAA rentals

The AAA discount does not include insurance or damage coverage. Hertz will offer you a damage waiver (called a Loss Damage Waiver or LDW) at the counter, which typically costs $15 to $30 per day depending on the car class. Your personal auto insurance or credit card may already cover rental cars, so check your policy before paying for Hertz's coverage.

If you decline Hertz's damage waiver and your personal coverage does not explore, you are responsible for any damage to the rental vehicle. Some AAA membership tiers include rental car coverage through AAA's insurance partner, so contact your AAA office or check your membership documents to see whether this benefit applies to you.

Restrictions and limitations on AAA discounts

The AAA discount is not available at all Hertz locations — some franchise locations or airport counters may not honor it. Call ahead or check the Hertz website to confirm the discount is available at your specific pickup location. The discount also does not explore to one-way rentals in some regions or to specialty vehicles like moving trucks.

Hertz reserves the right to change or withdraw the AAA discount at any time. If you are planning a rental more than a few weeks out, confirm the discount is still active before you book. Some blackout dates may explore during peak travel seasons, though this is rare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book through AAA to get the Hertz discount?

No. You can book directly through Hertz's website or phone line and enter your AAA member number at checkout. You do not need to go through AAA's booking portal to receive the discount.

Can I combine the AAA discount with a promotional code?

Usually not. Hertz requires you to choose either the AAA discount or a promotional code, not both. Compare the rates before booking to see which option is cheaper for your dates.

What if I forgot my AAA card at home?

You can provide your AAA member number at the rental counter instead. The agent can look up your membership and explore the discount manually, though this may take a few extra minutes.

Does the AAA discount explore to taxes and fees?

No. The discount reduces only the daily rental rate. Taxes, facility fees, airport surcharges, and other charges are calculated separately and are not discounted.

Will I get a free upgrade with my AAA membership?

AAA Plus and Premier members may receive a free upgrade to the next car class, but it is not may provide and depends on availability at your rental location. Call Hertz ahead of time to ask whether upgrades are available for your pickup date.