About Car Rentals

Contributor

By Isabel Prontes
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (0 Ratings)

Renting a car is a great idea in many instances, particularly when you are going out of town and need access to a vehicle for the duration of the time you will be there. Renting a car is very simple. The main requirement is that the individual renting be at least 25 years of age, as rental companies do not like to rent to young people.

Warning

Though the main requirement for renting a car is that you be at least 25 years old, most car rental companies have a few other requirements as well. These include having a credit or debit card (most car rental companies require a card as a deposit for reserving a vehicle) and having a good driving record. Many companies screen potential renters by checking their driving records as reported by the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). If you have a major offense under your belt, such as a DUI, you will most likely be rejected.

Considerations

When renting a car, there are a lot of potential fees to take into consideration. These fees are daily rental rates (which might include unlimited mileage), additional drivers fees (if more than one person plans to take the wheel), airport rental fees, young driver fees, fuel charges (if you don't return the vehicle with a full tank, you might be charged), car drop-off fees and child safety seat fees.

Expert Insight

Many car rental companies will inquire whether you would like to pay extra to have rental car insurance. There are a few things you need to check to determine whether you need to buy this. Check your employer's insurance, car insurance, homeowner's insurance, credit cards and automobile club memberships (such as AAA) and see if they include insurance coverage on rental vehicles.

Theories/Speculation

If you are leaving the country and need to rent a vehicle abroad, you will need to find out whether the country you are headed to requires an International Driver's Permit or if they will accept your regular drivers license (a country like the United Kingdom will allow you to drive using your license and one other form of photo identification). Also, check your insurance policy and find out if there are any restrictions for foreign nations.

Types

There are many reliable places to rent vehicles. Some of the most popular car rental companies are Avis, National, Hertz, Budget, Alamo and Thrifty. Many of these car rental companies also have branches in foreign countries. You will be able to find Hertz and Budget all over Europe.