What Sixt is and where to find locations
Sixt is a car rental company operating in the United States, Europe, and other regions. In the U.S., Sixt has rental counters at major airports, downtown locations in large cities, and some smaller markets. You can find a Sixt location near you through their website by entering your city or airport code.
Sixt rents economy cars, SUVs, vans, and premium vehicles by the day, week, or longer. Unlike some rental companies that operate only at airports, Sixt maintains both airport and off-airport locations, which can matter if you need to pick up or drop off away from a terminal.
The company is owned by Sixt SE, a German rental firm that has operated since 1912. In the U.S. market, Sixt competes directly with Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, and Avis, and operates under the same basic rental structure as those companies.
Key Takeaways
- Sixt requires a valid driver's license, credit card in your name, and proof of insurance or the option to purchase their coverage at the counter.
- You can reserve a car online, by phone, or at a location, and prices vary based on location, vehicle type, and how far in advance you book.
- Damage waivers and additional insurance are optional but cost extra; your personal auto policy or credit card may already cover rental cars.
- Sixt charges for fuel based on how much gas you use, and late returns incur daily rental rates or hourly fees depending on how late you are.
- If you have a problem with your rental or a damage claim, Sixt has a customer service line and a formal dispute process.
How to reserve a car and what you need to bring
You can reserve a Sixt rental online at their website, through their mobile app, or by calling their reservation line. When you reserve, you choose your pickup location, date, time, and vehicle class. Sixt will show you the base rental rate, but the final price may include taxes, location fees, and any add-ons you select.
At pickup, bring your driver's license, a credit card in your own name, and proof of insurance. Sixt accepts most major credit cards. If you do not have insurance or do not want to use your own, you can purchase a damage waiver or additional liability coverage at the counter — this costs extra and is optional. Some credit cards (typically premium cards) cover rental car damage if you decline the rental company's coverage; check with your card issuer before you rent.
Sixt requires you to be at least 21 years old to rent. Drivers under 25 may face an additional young driver fee. If you are renting under a corporate account or with a promotional code, bring that information with you or have it ready when you call.
Understanding Sixt's damage and insurance options
Sixt offers several optional add-ons at the rental counter. A damage waiver (sometimes called a collision damage waiver or CDW) limits your financial responsibility if the car is damaged or stolen. Without it, you are responsible for the full repair cost. With it, you typically pay a daily fee and a deductible if damage occurs.
Sixt also sells additional liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property. Your personal auto policy usually covers this when you rent a car, so check your policy before you pay for Sixt's version. The same applies to uninsured motorist coverage.
These add-ons are not required if you have your own insurance, but Sixt will ask about them at the counter. If you decline and later have an accident, you will be responsible for repairs up to the car's value. Read the rental agreement carefully before you sign, as it explains what you are and are not covered for.
How fuel, mileage, and late fees work
Sixt charges for fuel based on how much gas you use. You can return the car with a full tank (you pay nothing extra), or you can return it partially full and pay Sixt's per-gallon rate for the fuel you used. Sixt's fuel prices are typically higher than gas station prices, so filling up yourself before you return the car usually costs less.
Most Sixt rentals include unlimited mileage, meaning you do not pay extra for how far you drive. Some promotional rates or specific vehicle classes may have mileage limits; check your reservation confirmation to see if yours does.
If you return the car late, Sixt charges either a daily rental rate (if you are more than an hour or so late) or an hourly rate (if you are just slightly over). The exact threshold varies by location. Call ahead if you think you will be late; sometimes Sixt can extend your reservation without a penalty.
What happens if the car is damaged or you have an accident
If you damage the rental car, report it to Sixt when ready — do not try to hide it or repair it yourself. Sixt will document the damage, take photos, and determine the repair cost. If you purchased a damage waiver, you pay the deductible (usually $500 to $1,500) and Sixt covers the rest. If you did not purchase a waiver, you pay the full repair bill.
If you are in an accident, call the police and get a report number. Also call Sixt right away. Provide Sixt with the police report, the other driver's insurance information, and photos of the damage. Sixt will file a claim with the other driver's insurance if they are at fault, or with your insurance if you are at fault.
Sixt may hold your credit card for the estimated repair cost while they investigate. Once the claim is resolved, they will charge you only for your deductible (if you have one) or nothing (if the other driver's insurance pays). Disputes over damage claims can take weeks or months to resolve; Sixt has a formal complaint process if you disagree with their assessment.
Comparing Sixt to other major rental companies
Sixt's pricing and policies are similar to Hertz, Budget, and Avis. All four charge daily rates that vary by location and vehicle type, offer optional damage waivers, and charge for fuel based on usage. The main differences are location availability, loyalty programs, and customer service reputation.
Sixt has fewer U.S. locations than Enterprise or Hertz, so availability depends on where you need to rent. If Sixt does not have a location near you, another company will. Sixt's loyalty program (Sixt Plus) offers discounts and perks for frequent renters, similar to programs at other companies.
Customer satisfaction varies by location and individual experience. Before you book, read recent reviews for the specific Sixt location you plan to use, as service quality can differ between branches. The same is true for other rental companies.
How to contact Sixt if you have a problem
Sixt has a customer service phone line available during business hours. You can also contact them through their website or mobile app. If you have a complaint about your rental, damage charges, or customer service, Sixt has a formal dispute process.
Start by calling or emailing the location where you rented. If they cannot resolve it, ask to escalate to Sixt's corporate customer service. Keep copies of your rental agreement, photos of the car at pickup and return, and any correspondence with Sixt. If Sixt charges your credit card for damage you dispute, you can also file a chargeback with your credit card company.
For safety or mechanical issues during your rental, call Sixt when ready. They will either repair the car, provide a replacement, or end your rental depending on the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a Sixt car if I do not have a credit card?
Sixt requires a credit card in your name for the rental. Debit cards are not accepted. If you do not have a credit card, you will need to use another rental company or get a credit card before you rent.
What if I need to cancel my Sixt reservation?
Cancellation policies vary based on the rate you booked. Some rates are refundable up to a certain date; others are non-refundable. Check your confirmation email for the cancellation important date. You can cancel online, through the app, or by calling Sixt.
Does Sixt allow one-way rentals?
Yes, Sixt allows one-way rentals where you pick up in one city and drop off in another. One-way rentals typically cost more than round-trip rentals. The fee depends on the distance between locations.
What if I get a speeding ticket or parking ticket while driving a Sixt car?
You are responsible for any traffic or parking violations. Sixt may receive the ticket and forward it to you, or the citation may come directly to you. Pay the ticket promptly; ignoring it can result in additional fines or a suspended license.
Can I add another driver to my Sixt rental?
Yes, Sixt allows additional drivers. Each additional driver must have a valid driver's license and be present at pickup to sign the rental agreement. Sixt may charge a daily fee for each additional driver.