What Enterprise Rent-A-Car is and how to rent from them

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is a rental company with locations at airports, downtown areas, and neighborhood branches across the United States and internationally. You reserve a vehicle online, by phone, or in person, then pick it up at your chosen location and return it when your rental period ends. Enterprise handles everything from insurance options to mileage policies, and the total cost depends on the vehicle type, rental length, location, and current demand.

Unlike some rental companies that operate primarily from airport counters, Enterprise has thousands of neighborhood locations, which means you may be able to rent from a branch near your home or destination rather than traveling to an airport. This can save time and sometimes money, depending on where you need the car.

Key Takeaways

  • Enterprise charges by the day, week, or longer periods, with prices varying by location, vehicle type, and season—check the specific branch and dates for an accurate quote.
  • You need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance or the option to purchase it from Enterprise before you can rent.
  • Enterprise's damage waiver and liability coverage are optional add-ons; your personal auto insurance or credit card may already cover rental cars, so check before paying extra.
  • Fuel policies vary—some rentals include a full tank and require you to return it full, while others charge per gallon for fuel used—confirm this when you book.
  • Cancellations and changes are usually free if made before the pickup time, but rental agreements specify the exact policy for the branch and dates you choose.

How to book an Enterprise rental and what information you need

You can reserve a car through Enterprise's website, mobile app, or by calling a specific branch or their general reservation line. When you book, you'll enter your pickup and return dates, the location where you want the car, and your driver's license number. Enterprise will show you available vehicle types and prices for those exact dates and location.

Have your driver's license, credit card, and insurance information ready before you book. Enterprise will ask for your name, address, phone number, and email. If you're renting under a corporate account or with a discount code, have that information available too. The reservation is not final until you complete payment or confirm the booking—most reservations can be modified or canceled free of charge up until your scheduled pickup time, though the specific policy depends on the branch and rate you selected.

What to bring and what happens at pickup

Bring your valid driver's license, the credit card you used to book the rental, and proof of insurance. Some locations may ask for a second form of ID. If you're under 25, Enterprise may charge an additional daily fee, and some vehicle types have age restrictions—check your confirmation email or call the branch ahead of time if you're concerned.

At pickup, an Enterprise employee will walk you through the vehicle's condition, pointing out any existing damage and documenting it on the rental agreement. This protects you by creating a record of what was already there. You'll review the fuel level, mileage, and any pre-existing scratches or dents. Take photos or video of the car's condition if the branch allows it—this is your proof if a damage dispute arises later. Before you drive away, confirm the return location, return date, return time, and the fuel policy for your specific rental.

Understanding fuel, mileage, and damage policies

Enterprise offers different fuel options depending on the branch and rental type. The most common is "full to full"—you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full, or you pay Enterprise's per-gallon rate for any fuel missing. Some rentals include a set amount of mileage per day; excess mileage is charged at a per-mile rate. Read your rental agreement carefully, because these policies vary by location and rate type.

Damage coverage is optional. Enterprise offers a damage waiver (also called a loss damage waiver or LDW) that limits your financial responsibility if the car is damaged or stolen. However, your personal auto insurance or credit card may already cover rental cars—check your policy or card benefits before paying for Enterprise's waiver. If you decline the waiver and damage occurs, you could be responsible for the full repair cost. Enterprise will document any damage you report at return; damage you don't report may be charged to you later.

Returning the car and what to expect at checkout

Return the car to the location and by the time specified in your rental agreement. If you return it late, Enterprise will charge you for additional days or hours, depending on their policy. Bring the car back with the fuel level you agreed to—if you chose "full to full," fill the tank before returning it, because Enterprise charges significantly more per gallon than a gas station.

At return, an Enterprise employee will inspect the car for damage, check the mileage and fuel level, and compare the vehicle's condition to the pickup documentation. If there are new dents, scratches, or other damage, they'll note it and may charge you. If you dispute a damage charge, ask for photos and a detailed estimate. Your rental agreement will show the final charges, including any damage fees, mileage overages, or fuel charges. You'll receive a receipt by email or in person.

Insurance and liability coverage options

Enterprise offers several coverage options at the rental counter. Damage waiver (LDW) limits your liability if the car is damaged or stolen. Liability coverage covers damage or injury you cause to other people or property. Personal effects coverage covers items stolen from the car. None of these are required by law, but they protect you financially if something goes wrong.

Before you buy coverage from Enterprise, check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card already covers rental cars. Many personal policies and premium credit cards include rental car coverage, which means you'd be paying twice if you also buy Enterprise's waiver. Call your insurance company or credit card issuer before your rental to confirm what's covered. If you have no coverage and decline Enterprise's options, you're personally responsible for any damage or liability.

Special situations: one-way rentals, additional drivers, and young renters

Enterprise allows one-way rentals—picking up in one city and returning in another—but charges a drop-off fee that varies by locations and distance. Get a quote for the specific cities you need before booking, because one-way fees can be substantial. Some locations offer free one-way rentals on certain vehicle types or during promotions.

If someone else will drive the rental car, they must be listed as an additional driver on the agreement and meet Enterprise's requirements (valid license, age restrictions). Adding a driver is usually free, but some locations charge a daily fee. Drivers not listed on the agreement are not covered by the rental agreement or insurance, so make sure anyone who will drive is added before you leave the lot.

Renters under 25 typically pay an additional daily surcharge, and some vehicle types (luxury cars, large trucks) have minimum age requirements. If you're under 25, call the specific branch before booking to confirm the surcharge and any vehicle restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I modify my reservation after I book it?

Yes, most reservations can be changed online or by calling the branch, and changes are usually free if made before your pickup time. However, if you change to a different rate or vehicle type, the price may increase or decrease. Check your confirmation email for the specific cancellation and modification policy for your reservation, as it varies by branch and rate.

What happens if I return the car late?

Enterprise will charge you for the additional time. The charge depends on whether you're a few minutes late or several hours late—some locations charge hourly rates for partial days, while others charge a full day's rate. Call the branch when ready if you know you'll be late; they may be able to adjust your reservation to avoid extra charges.

Do I have to buy insurance from Enterprise?

No. Enterprise's insurance and damage waiver are optional. Check your personal auto insurance policy and credit card benefits first—many cover rental cars at no extra cost. If you have coverage through either source, you don't need to buy Enterprise's waiver. If you have no coverage, buying the waiver protects you from paying for damage out of pocket.

What if I'm charged for damage I didn't cause?

Document the car's condition at pickup with photos or video if possible. At return, review the damage report carefully and dispute any charges you believe are incorrect before you leave the lot. If you're charged after you return the car, contact Enterprise's customer service with photos from pickup and your rental agreement. Keep all documentation in case you need to dispute the charge with your credit card company.

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

Enterprise typically requires a credit card in your name for the security deposit and final charges. Some locations may accept a debit card with a larger hold, but this varies by branch. Call the specific location where you plan to rent to ask about their payment options before you book.