Dollar Rent a Car basics and what to expect

Dollar Rent a Car is a rental company owned by Hertz Global Holdings that operates rental locations at airports, downtown areas, and neighborhood sites across the United States. You can reserve a vehicle through their website, phone, or in person at a location. Like other rental companies, Dollar charges a daily or weekly rate, requires a valid driver's license and credit card at pickup, and typically has a minimum age requirement (usually 20 or 21, depending on location and vehicle type).

Dollar's pricing and vehicle availability vary by location and season. You can see rates and available cars for your specific dates and pickup location on their website before you commit to anything. The company offers economy cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans, though what's in stock depends on the branch you're renting from.

Key Takeaways

  • Dollar Rent a Car requires a valid driver's license, credit card, and proof of insurance at pickup, and most locations have a minimum driver age of 20 or 21.
  • Rates vary significantly by location, season, and how far in advance you book, so checking their website for your specific dates gives you the actual price you'll pay.
  • You can add a second driver, purchase extra insurance coverage, or rent equipment like GPS or child seats during the booking process or at pickup.
  • Return the car on time and in the condition you rented it to avoid late fees and damage charges that appear on your credit card after you leave.

What documents and payment you need at pickup

When you arrive to pick up your rental, Dollar will ask for your driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance. The credit card is used to hold a deposit and to charge the rental fee and any extras you add. Bring the confirmation email or number from your reservation so the staff can pull up your booking quickly.

If you're under 25, Dollar may charge an additional daily fee called a young driver surcharge. This fee varies by location and vehicle type. Ask about it when you book or call ahead to your specific location to find out the exact amount.

Some locations accept debit cards, but policies vary. Call the branch where you're picking up the car to confirm whether they'll take a debit card and what additional requirements (like a deposit or ID) they may have.

Insurance and damage coverage options

You are not required to buy insurance from Dollar, but you do need to show proof that you have coverage before you drive off the lot. This can come from your personal auto insurance policy, your credit card company (if your card offers rental car coverage), or a policy you purchase from Dollar.

Dollar offers several coverage options at pickup: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers damage to the rental car; Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which covers theft or total loss; and Supplemental Liability Insurance, which covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property. These are optional add-ons. Read what your personal insurance and credit card already cover before you buy anything from Dollar, because you may already be protected and paying twice wastes money.

If you decline Dollar's coverage and damage occurs, you are responsible for repair costs. Damage charges can be substantial and will be charged to your credit card after you return the car. Take photos of the car's condition before you drive away and again when you return it, and note any existing damage on the rental agreement.

Booking, rates, and reservation changes

You can book a Dollar rental on their website, through their phone line, or in person at a location. Booking online usually shows you the lowest available rate for your dates and location. Rates change based on demand, so booking further in advance often costs less than booking a few days before you need the car.

If you need to change your reservation, you can do so through the website or by calling Dollar directly. Cancellation policies vary depending on the rate you booked and how far in advance you cancel. Some rates are fully refundable if you cancel before a certain date; others are non-refundable. Check the terms when you book so you know what happens if your plans change.

Dollar sometimes offers discounts for members of AAA, military, corporate programs, or loyalty programs. Ask about these when you book or mention them at pickup if you forgot to explore them to your reservation.

Late returns, fuel, and additional charges

Return the car by the date and time shown on your rental agreement. If you return it late, Dollar charges an additional daily rate, which can be higher than the original daily rate. Even an hour or two over can trigger a full extra day's charge at some locations, so plan to return the car with time to spare.

Most Dollar rentals come with a full tank of fuel. You are expected to return the car with a full tank as well. If you don't, Dollar will refuel the car and charge you for the fuel at a per-gallon rate that is usually higher than what you would pay at a gas station. Fill up the tank yourself before you return the car to avoid this charge.

Additional charges can include fees for extra drivers, equipment rentals (GPS, child seats, phone chargers), tolls you incur during the rental period, and parking or traffic violations. These charges appear on your credit card after you return the car, so review your statement to catch any errors.

What to do if there's damage or a dispute

If you're in an accident or the car is damaged while you have it, report it to Dollar when ready. Do not leave the location without notifying staff. Take photos of the damage, get the names and contact information of any other drivers involved, and file a police report if another vehicle was hit.

If you disagree with a damage charge that appears on your credit card after you return the car, contact Dollar's customer service within a reasonable time frame. Have your photos, the rental agreement, and any police report or insurance claim documentation ready. Disputes can take time to resolve, so follow up in writing (email) to create a record of your complaint.

If you were in an accident and your insurance or Dollar's insurance is involved, provide Dollar with your insurance company's contact information and claim number. Do not admit fault or sign anything beyond the rental agreement and accident report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car from Dollar if I don't have a credit card?

Most Dollar locations require a credit card in your name for the deposit and charges. Some locations may accept a debit card with additional requirements like a larger deposit or ID verification. Call the specific location where you plan to pick up the car to ask about their debit card policy before you book.

What happens if I return the car with damage I didn't cause?

Report any damage you notice during your rental to Dollar staff when ready, and take photos. If damage appears on your bill that you didn't cause, contact Dollar's customer service with your photos and the rental agreement. Disputes can take weeks to resolve, so document everything in writing.

Do I have to buy insurance from Dollar?

No. You must show proof of insurance from your personal auto policy, credit card, or another source. If you already have coverage, you don't need to buy Dollar's insurance. Review what your existing coverage includes before you decline Dollar's options, because some policies have limits or exclusions for rental cars.

Can I add a second driver to my reservation?

Yes. You can add a second driver when you book online or at pickup. Dollar charges a daily fee for each additional driver, and the amount varies by location. All drivers must have a valid driver's license and be present at pickup to sign the agreement.

What if I need to extend my rental?

Call Dollar as soon as you know you need the car longer. If the car is available, they can extend your reservation and charge you the rate for the additional days. If the car is already booked by another customer, you may not be able to extend, so ask early rather than at return time.