What Hertz Needs Before You Can Rent
Hertz requires a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance before you can take a car off the lot. You do not need to own a car to rent from Hertz — your own insurance policy, your employer's coverage, or a credit card's rental protection can all work. The credit card must be the one you present at pickup; Hertz will not accept a different card to pay than the one you used to reserve.
If you are under 25, Hertz charges a daily underage driver fee (typically $15 to $30 per day, though this varies by location and car class). Some locations may decline to rent to drivers under 21 entirely. Call the specific location where you plan to pick up before you book if you are under 25.
You will also need to provide a physical address, phone number, and email. Hertz uses this information to send you the rental agreement and any updates about your reservation. If you are renting at an airport location, have your flight confirmation ready — some locations ask for it as part of the check-in process.
Key Takeaways
- Hertz requires a valid driver's license, credit card in your name, and proof of insurance — you do not need to own a car to meet the insurance requirement.
- Drivers under 25 pay an additional daily fee that varies by location, and some Hertz locations will not rent to drivers under 21.
- You can book online, by phone, or in person, but you must present the same credit card at pickup that you used to reserve the car.
- Hertz charges for damage, excess mileage (if you exceed your plan), fuel (if you do not return the car full), and late returns — read your agreement before you leave the lot.
- If you have a Hertz membership or frequent-renter account, you can skip some paperwork at pickup and sometimes receive discounted rates.
How to Book a Hertz Rental
You can book through Hertz.com, by calling 1-800-654-3131, or by walking into a Hertz location. Online booking is fastest — you enter your pickup and return dates, location, and driver information, then see available cars and prices when ready. The website shows you the total cost upfront, including taxes and fees, so you know what you will pay before you confirm.
When you book, you will choose a car class (economy, midsize, SUV, luxury, and so on) rather than a specific vehicle. Hertz assigns the actual car when you arrive for pickup. If you have a preference — say, a sedan instead of a hatchback within the economy class — mention it at the counter, but Hertz does not may provide a specific model.
You will also choose your mileage plan: unlimited miles, a set number of miles per day, or pay-per-mile. Unlimited is usually the better deal if you plan to drive more than 100 miles per day. If you are unsure, the Hertz website shows you the cost difference between plans for your specific dates and location.
What Happens at Pickup
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Bring your driver's license, the credit card you used to book, and proof of insurance. At the counter, a Hertz agent will verify your information, show you the car, and walk you through the rental agreement.
Before you leave the lot, the agent will point out any existing damage to the car and note it on the agreement. This is critical — if you do not report a scratch or dent that was already there, you may be charged for it when you return. Take photos of the car's condition with your phone if you want extra documentation. Check the fuel gauge, odometer, and lights, and make sure the agent records the mileage and fuel level on your agreement.
Ask about the fuel policy. Most Hertz locations offer a "fuel option" where you prepay for a full tank at a set price per gallon, then return the car empty. If you do not choose this, you pay Hertz's pump price for any fuel missing when you return — which is usually higher than gas station prices. Decide before you drive away.
Costs Beyond the Daily Rate
The daily rental rate is only part of what you will pay. Hertz adds taxes (which vary by state and county), airport fees (if you rent at an airport), and facility charges. These can add 20 to 40 percent to your base rate. The online booking page shows the full total before you confirm, so check that number, not just the daily rate.
You will also pay for damage beyond normal wear, excess mileage if you go over your plan, fuel if you do not return the car full, and late returns. Late fees typically run $40 to $75 per day depending on location. If you return the car more than 24 hours late, Hertz may charge you for an additional rental day rather than just the overage hours.
Some credit cards include rental car coverage that waives the damage waiver Hertz offers. Check your card's benefits before you rent — if your card covers damage, you can decline Hertz's collision damage waiver and save $15 to $30 per day. Bring your credit card's coverage details to the counter so the agent knows you have third-party protection.
Returning the Car and Settling Your Bill
Return the car to the same location where you picked it up, unless you booked a one-way rental (which costs more). Arrive during the location's business hours — if you return after hours, you may not be able to complete the return process, and you could be charged for an extra day.
Return the car with a full tank of fuel if you did not prepay for fuel. The agent will check the mileage, fuel level, and condition, then compare it to the agreement you signed at pickup. If there is new damage, the agent will photograph it and explain the charge. If you went over your mileage allowance, that charge will appear on your final bill.
You will receive a final receipt showing all charges. Review it before you leave — if something looks wrong, ask the agent to explain it. Hertz will also email you a copy of the receipt and your rental agreement. Keep these documents in case you need to dispute a charge later.
Special Situations and Membership Programs
If you rent from Hertz frequently, joining the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program can save you time and money. Members skip the counter line at many locations, go straight to their assigned car, and sometimes receive discounted rates. The program is free to join through Hertz.com.
If you are renting for a business trip, ask whether your employer has a corporate account with Hertz. Many companies negotiate discounted rates for employees. You will need your company's account number to book, but the process is the same as a regular reservation.
If you need to cancel your reservation, do so through Hertz.com or by calling 1-800-654-3131. Cancellation policies vary by rate type — some rates are fully refundable if you cancel before a certain date, while others charge a cancellation fee. Check your confirmation email for the cancellation terms for your specific booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to show proof of insurance at pickup?
Yes. Bring a copy of your insurance card or policy. If you do not have personal auto insurance, a credit card's rental coverage or your employer's policy can work. Hertz will not rent to you without proof of some form of coverage.
What if I return the car late?
Hertz charges late fees, typically $40 to $75 per day depending on location. If you are more than 24 hours late, you may be charged for an additional full rental day. Call the location as soon as you realize you will be late — some locations may waive or reduce the fee if you notify them in advance.
Can I add a second driver?
Yes. Additional drivers must present a valid driver's license at pickup and sign the rental agreement. Hertz charges a daily fee for each additional driver, usually $10 to $15 per day. You can add drivers when you book online or at the counter.
What happens if I get into an accident?
Contact Hertz when ready — the phone number is on your rental agreement. Report the accident to the police if there are injuries or significant damage. Hertz will guide you through the claims process. If you have collision coverage through your credit card or personal insurance, contact them as well so they can coordinate with Hertz.
Is the price I see online the final price I will pay?
The online total includes taxes and facility fees for your location, so it is close to final. However, if you add options at pickup (like an additional driver or a GPS unit), those will increase your bill. Fuel charges and damage or mileage overages will also appear on your final bill.