Hertz's main customer service number and what it handles

Hertz's primary phone number in the United States is 1-800-654-3131. This line handles reservations, changes to existing bookings, roadside information, and general customer service questions. The number operates during business hours, which vary by season and day of the week—calling during off-peak times (early morning or late evening) often means shorter wait times.

When you call, have your reservation confirmation number ready if you're calling about an existing rental. If you're making a new reservation, the system can quote you rates and take your booking over the phone, though online booking is usually faster if you know your travel dates and location.

Hertz also operates a separate roadside information line for customers already on the road with a rental vehicle. If you break down or have an accident, your rental agreement includes the number to call for emergency support—this is typically printed on your rental paperwork and key tag.

Key Takeaways

  • The main Hertz customer service number is 1-800-654-3131 for reservations, changes, and general questions.
  • Have your confirmation number ready when calling about an existing reservation to speed up the process.
  • Roadside information numbers are included in your rental agreement and on your key tag for emergencies during your rental period.
  • Wait times are typically shorter during early morning or late evening hours.
  • International renters can reach Hertz through country-specific numbers or the main line for information with bookings.

Reaching Hertz for specific rental locations

If you need to speak directly to a specific Hertz location—such as an airport counter or a neighborhood rental office—you can find that location's direct phone number through the Hertz website. Enter your city or airport code, and the location listing will show the branch phone number, hours, and address.

Calling a specific location is useful if you want to ask about vehicle availability before you book, discuss damage to a vehicle you're returning, or arrange for special services like additional driver setup or equipment rental. Airport locations typically have longer hours than neighborhood branches, which may close in the evening.

What to expect when you call

When you reach Hertz customer service, you'll hear an automated menu that routes you based on your reason for calling. The system asks whether you're calling about a reservation, a current rental, or roadside information. Selecting the correct option moves you to the right department faster.

Wait times during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays, spring break) can stretch to 15–30 minutes, especially on weekends. If you're calling about a reservation change or cancellation, the automated system may allow you to complete the transaction without speaking to an agent, which is usually the fastest route.

For roadside emergencies, the wait is typically shorter because the line is dedicated to active rentals. Have your rental agreement number and location information ready so the dispatcher can send help to you quickly.

Alternative ways to contact Hertz

Beyond the phone line, Hertz offers other contact methods that may be faster depending on your situation. The Hertz website has a live chat feature during business hours, and you can also manage many reservation changes through your online account without calling at all.

Email contact is available through the Hertz website for non-urgent questions, though response times are typically 24–48 hours. The Hertz mobile app allows you to modify reservations, add drivers, and request roadside information without making a phone call.

Social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter) are monitored by Hertz customer service and can be a faster way to reach someone if you're having trouble getting through by phone during busy periods.

International and specialty contact numbers

If you're renting a Hertz vehicle outside the United States, each country has its own customer service number. These are listed on the Hertz website under the relevant country's page. For example, Hertz UK has a separate number from Hertz Canada, and both differ from the US line.

Hertz also operates specialty programs like Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, which has its own customer service line for members with account questions or status inquiries. The number for Gold members is typically found on your membership card or in your account dashboard.

If you're renting a specialty vehicle (luxury car, truck, van) or need corporate fleet support, Hertz has dedicated lines for those services. The main number can direct you to the right department, or you can ask for the specialty services team when you call.

Common reasons to call and what information to have ready

The most common reasons people call Hertz are to make a reservation, modify an existing booking, extend a rental, add an additional driver, or report damage. For any of these, have your confirmation number ready—it's on your confirmation email and makes the call much faster.

If you're calling about damage to a rental vehicle, have photos ready if possible, and be prepared to describe what happened. If you're calling about a charge on your credit card after your rental, have your rental agreement and the charge details in front of you.

For roadside emergencies, have your rental agreement, your location (address or mile marker), and a description of the problem ready. The dispatcher will ask these questions in order, so having the information ready means help arrives faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time to call Hertz to avoid long wait times?

Early morning (before 9 a.m.) and late evening (after 6 p.m.) typically have shorter queues than midday. Weekday calls are usually faster than weekend calls. If you're calling during peak travel season (summer or holidays), expect longer waits no matter when you call.

Can I make changes to my reservation without calling?

Yes. You can modify most reservations online through the Hertz website or mobile app, including changing dates, adding drivers, or upgrading your vehicle. You only need to call if the change isn't available online or if you need to speak to an agent about a specific issue.

What if I'm calling from outside the United States?

Use the customer service number for the country where you're renting. These are listed on the Hertz website for each region. If you're renting in the US but calling from abroad, the main US number (1-800-654-3131) may incur international calling charges, so check with your phone provider first.

Is there a number for roadside help if my rental breaks down?

Yes. Your rental agreement and key tag include the roadside information number specific to your rental. Call that number when ready if you break down, have an accident, or need emergency help. This line is separate from general customer service and has shorter wait times.

Can I speak to someone about a damage claim after I return the vehicle?

Yes. Call the main customer service number and ask to speak to the claims department. Have your rental agreement, photos of any damage, and the date you returned the vehicle ready. Claims can take several days to process, so follow up in writing if you don't hear back within a week.