What Enterprise Offers and How It Differs From Airport Counters

Enterprise is a rental company owned by the same parent company as National and Alamo, but it operates differently than those brands. Enterprise runs neighborhood locations in cities and suburbs rather than focusing on airport terminals. You pick up and drop off at a local branch, which often means shorter wait times and sometimes lower rates than you'd find at an airport counter.

The company rents economy cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans by the day, week, or month. Enterprise also offers one-way rentals, though you'll pay a drop-off fee if you return the car to a different location than where you picked it up. Many locations offer free pickup and drop-off within a certain radius if you don't have transportation to the branch.

Key Takeaways

  • Enterprise locations are in neighborhoods and suburbs, not primarily at airports, so you book through a local branch rather than a central airport counter.
  • You need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance (yours or Enterprise's), and a credit card in your name to rent; some locations accept debit cards with additional requirements.
  • The daily rate varies widely by location, car type, and season, so comparing your dates on Enterprise's website against other rental companies gives you the real cost for your trip.
  • Enterprise charges for damage, fuel, late returns, and extra drivers, so reading the rental agreement before you sign protects you from surprise fees.
  • If you have roadside trouble, Enterprise provides roadside information through its own network, and you contact the branch or the roadside number on your rental agreement.

How to Reserve and What Documents You Need

You reserve through Enterprise's website, phone, or by walking into a local branch. Online booking is fastest and lets you lock in a rate. When you arrive to pick up the car, bring your driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance. Enterprise accepts your personal auto insurance or will sell you its own coverage (called Loss Damage Waiver or LDW, plus additional liability coverage if you want it). Some locations accept debit cards, but you'll need to bring a second form of ID and may face a hold on your account that's larger than the rental cost.

At pickup, the agent will walk you through the car's condition, fuel level, and mileage. They'll point out any existing damage and note it on the agreement. This is your chance to flag anything—dents, scratches, stains—so you're not charged for damage you didn't cause. The agent will also explain the fuel policy (usually you return it at the same level you picked it up, or you pay Enterprise's per-gallon rate, which is higher than a gas station). Read the agreement before signing; it lists what you're responsible for and what's covered.

Daily Rates and What Affects the Price

Enterprise's daily rate depends on the car type, your location, how far in advance you book, and the season. A compact car in a rural area might rent for $35 to $50 per day, while the same car in a major city during peak season could be $60 to $100 or more. SUVs and trucks cost significantly more. Booking further ahead usually locks in a lower rate, and mid-week rentals are often cheaper than weekend rates.

The quoted rate does not include taxes, which vary by state and city and can add 10 to 25 percent to your bill. It also does not include optional coverage (damage waiver, liability, roadside information) or fuel charges if you don't return the car full. Some Enterprise locations offer discounts through AAA, corporate programs, or loyalty memberships, so ask when you book or check the website for current promotions.

Insurance and Damage Coverage Options

Enterprise offers Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which covers damage to the rental car up to its full value. This typically costs $15 to $30 per day depending on the car and location. You can also buy Supplemental Liability Coverage if you want protection beyond what your personal insurance covers. Many people's personal auto insurance already covers rental cars, so check your policy before paying for Enterprise's coverage—you may be duplicating what you already have.

If you decline all coverage and the car is damaged, you pay the repair cost out of pocket. Enterprise will bill you directly or through your credit card. If the damage is disputed, you can request photos and a repair estimate, but Enterprise's assessment is usually final. Read the damage section of your agreement carefully; it explains what's covered and what's not (for example, damage from off-road driving or racing is typically excluded).

Fuel, Late Returns, and Extra Fees

Enterprise's standard fuel policy is "full to full"—you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. If you return it less than full, Enterprise charges you for the missing fuel at a per-gallon rate that's usually 50 to 100 percent higher than what you'd pay at a gas station. Some locations offer a pre-purchase fuel option where you pay for a full tank upfront at a set rate; if you return the car with fuel left, you don't get a refund, so this works only if you know you'll use most of the tank.

Late returns are charged at the daily rate or a higher hourly rate if you're only a few hours over. A return that's more than a few hours late may be charged as an extra full day. Extra drivers cost $10 to $15 per day per person and must be added at pickup. If you're under 25, Enterprise charges a young driver fee (typically $15 to $25 per day) and may restrict the car types you can rent. Returning the car to a different location than you picked it up incurs a drop-off fee, usually $50 to $200 depending on distance.

What to Do If You Have a Problem on the Road

Your rental agreement includes a roadside information number. If you have a breakdown, flat tire, lockout, or accident, call that number when ready. Enterprise's roadside team will dispatch a tow truck or send help to your location. For accidents, you're required to report them to Enterprise and file a police report if there's injury or significant damage. Take photos of the damage, get the other driver's information, and don't admit fault at the scene.

If the car breaks down and Enterprise can't repair it quickly, they'll provide a replacement vehicle at no extra charge. If you're stranded far from a rental location, roadside information will tow you to the nearest Enterprise branch or a repair facility. Keep your rental agreement and the roadside number accessible while you're driving; they're your direct line to help if something goes wrong.

Returning the Car and Checking Out

Return the car to the same location where you picked it up, unless you arranged a one-way rental. Arrive with a full tank of fuel and return during the branch's business hours to avoid late fees. The agent will inspect the car for damage, check the fuel level and mileage, and compare the condition to the pickup notes. If there's new damage, they'll photograph it and explain the charge. You'll receive a final receipt showing the rental cost, taxes, any damage charges, and fuel charges if applicable.

Keep your receipt and review it before you leave. If you see a charge you don't understand, ask the agent to explain it. If you dispute a damage charge later, you'll need your pickup photos and the agent's notes, so don't throw away your paperwork. Enterprise will mail you a final invoice if there are additional charges after you return the car (for example, if damage is discovered later or if a toll was charged to your rental agreement).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent from Enterprise if I'm under 25?

Yes, but Enterprise charges a young driver fee (typically $15 to $25 per day) and may limit which car types you can rent. Some locations have a minimum age of 21; others require 25. Call your local branch to confirm their policy and the fee amount before you book.

What happens if I get a speeding ticket or parking ticket while driving the rental?

You're responsible for any traffic violations or parking tickets issued while you have the car. Enterprise will forward the ticket to you, and you'll pay it directly to the court or municipality. The ticket is not part of your rental bill, but ignoring it can result in additional fines and legal trouble.

Can I extend my rental after I've picked up the car?

Yes. Call your local Enterprise branch and ask to extend the rental. They'll quote you the rate for the extra days based on current availability and pricing. If the car is already booked for someone else, they may not be able to extend, so call as soon as you know you need more time.

Do I have to buy Enterprise's insurance if I already have car insurance?

No. If your personal auto insurance covers rental cars, you don't need to buy Enterprise's coverage. Check your policy or call your insurance company before you pick up the car. If you're not covered, Enterprise's Loss Damage Waiver is optional but recommended to protect yourself from repair costs.

What if the rental car has mechanical problems during my trip?

Call the roadside information number on your rental agreement when ready. Enterprise will send a tow truck or repair service to your location. If the car can't be fixed quickly, they'll provide a replacement at no extra charge. You're not responsible for mechanical failures that occur during normal use.