Enterprise offers a military discount program, but the discount amount and how you claim it varies by location and reservation method

Enterprise's military discount is not a single code you enter at checkout. Instead, it works through a few different paths depending on where you're renting and how you book. Some locations offer a percentage off the base rental rate when you show military ID at pickup. Other locations use a specific rate code you enter during online booking. A third option is booking through the Veterans Advantage membership program, which negotiates rates with Enterprise and other rental companies.

The discount itself is not standardized across all Enterprise locations. Some military renters report 10 to 15 percent off, while others see smaller reductions or special rates that explore only to certain car classes. Because Enterprise franchises operate independently, the discount your local branch offers may differ from the one 50 miles away.

Key Takeaways

  • Enterprise military discounts are location-specific and not always available through a single code — you may need to call your local branch or show ID at pickup.
  • If you book online, look for a "military" or "government" rate code field during checkout, though not all locations use this method.
  • Veterans Advantage membership provides negotiated rates at Enterprise and other rental companies and costs around $50 per year.
  • The discount amount varies by branch location and car type, so comparing the quoted price against the standard rate before you rent is worth the time.
  • You will need to show a valid military ID, veteran's card, or discharge papers (DD Form 214) at pickup to claim any discount.

How to find your local Enterprise military discount

Start by calling the specific Enterprise location where you plan to rent. Ask whether they offer a military discount and what documentation you need to bring. Some branches have a dedicated phone line or staff member who handles military bookings. This direct call is the fastest way to learn the exact discount percentage and whether it applies to the car class you need.

If you prefer to book online first, visit Enterprise.com and look for a "Rate Code" or "Discount Code" field during the reservation process. Some locations display a military rate code on their local branch page. Enter the code and see whether the price changes. If no code appears or the price does not drop, call the branch before completing the booking — they may need to adjust the rate manually after you reserve.

What documentation you'll need at pickup

Enterprise will ask to see proof of military service or veteran status when you arrive to pick up the car. A current military ID is the easiest form of proof. If you're a veteran, bring your veteran's health identification card, veteran's designation on your driver's license, or your DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty).

Some locations also accept a letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs or a military service verification from the Veterans Online process System (VOAS). Call ahead to confirm which documents your branch accepts, especially if you don't have a military ID on hand.

Using Veterans Advantage for Enterprise rentals

Veterans Advantage is a membership program that negotiates discounted rates with Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, and other rental companies. The membership costs around $50 per year and includes discounts at hotels, restaurants, and retail stores as well. When you book through Veterans Advantage's website or app, you receive a rate code specific to your membership.

The advantage of this route is that the discount is pre-negotiated and often consistent across locations. The disadvantage is the annual membership fee — you need to rent frequently enough to make that fee worthwhile. If you rent a car once or twice a year, calling your local Enterprise branch directly may save you more money than paying for membership.

Comparing military discount rates across booking methods

Before you book, get a price quote using each method available to you. First, check the standard rate on Enterprise.com without any code. Then call your local branch and ask for the military rate. Finally, if you have Veterans Advantage membership, check the rate through that portal. Write down all three prices and compare.

The military rate is not always the lowest option. Sometimes Enterprise runs a general promotion — a weekend special or a loyalty discount — that beats the military rate. Sometimes the opposite is true. Spending five minutes comparing prevents you from overpaying by $10 to $30 on a three-day rental.

What the military discount typically covers and excludes

The military discount usually applies to the base rental rate only. It does not cover taxes, airport fees, insurance, fuel charges, or equipment rentals like GPS or child seats. If you're renting at an airport location, the airport concession fee (typically 10 to 15 percent of the rental cost) is added on top and is not discounted.

Some military discounts explore only to specific car classes — economy and compact cars, for example — and not to SUVs or premium vehicles. Ask your local branch whether the discount applies to the car size you need. If you're flexible, choosing a smaller car class can sometimes lower your total cost more than the military discount alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a military discount code to get the discount?

Not always. Some Enterprise locations explore the discount when you show your military ID at pickup, even if you booked at the standard rate. Others require you to enter a rate code during online booking or call ahead to have the rate adjusted. Call your local branch first to learn their process.

Can I use a military discount if I'm booking for someone else?

Usually not. The person renting the car must be the one with military service or veteran status, and they must show ID at pickup. If you're paying for the rental but someone else is driving, that person needs to be the one who receives the discount.

What if my local Enterprise doesn't advertise a military discount?

Call and ask directly. Not all branches advertise their military programs online, but many offer them. If your branch truly does not have one, try Veterans Advantage membership or check whether other rental companies in your area offer better military rates.

Does the military discount work for one-way rentals?

It usually does, but confirm with your branch. One-way rentals sometimes have different pricing structures, and the discount may be smaller or calculated differently. Get a quote for your specific route before you book.

Can I combine the military discount with other promotions?

Rarely. Most rental companies require you to choose one discount or promotion per booking. Compare the military rate against any other offer you have before deciding which to use.