What Hertz is and how to rent from them

Hertz is one of the largest car rental companies in the United States, with locations at airports, downtown areas, and neighborhood branches in most cities. You can reserve a car online, by phone, or in person, and you pick it up at your chosen location and return it to the same place (or a different one, for an extra fee). The rental period is typically measured in days, and you pay a daily rate plus taxes, fees, and any add-ons you choose.

Hertz operates on a straightforward model: you provide a driver's license and payment method, sign a rental agreement that outlines the terms, and take possession of the car. When you return it, the company inspects it for damage, charges your card for any additional fees, and you're done. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes at pickup and 5 to 10 minutes at return, though this varies by location and how busy they are.

Unlike some rental companies that focus on specific customer types, Hertz serves leisure travelers, business renters, people whose cars are in the shop, and anyone else who needs temporary vehicle access. They offer economy cars, SUVs, trucks, and premium vehicles, so the cost and experience depend on what you book.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance (your own or Hertz's) to rent from Hertz.
  • The rental agreement you sign at pickup spells out your liability for damage, fuel charges, late fees, and other costs — read it before you drive away.
  • Hertz charges a daily rate plus taxes and facility fees; additional costs include fuel (if you don't return it full), damage, late return, and optional add-ons like GPS or extra drivers.
  • Damage waivers and liability coverage are optional but common; your personal auto insurance or credit card may cover rental cars, so check before buying Hertz's coverage.
  • Returning the car late, on a different day, or to a different location all trigger extra charges that can be substantial.

What you need to bring and provide at pickup

Hertz requires a valid driver's license in your name and a credit card (not debit) as the primary payment method. The card must be in the renter's name — you cannot use someone else's card. You also need to show proof of insurance; this can be your own auto insurance card, or you can purchase coverage from Hertz at the rental counter.

If you are under 25, Hertz charges a daily surcharge (the amount varies by location and car type, typically $15 to $30 per day). Some locations may also require an additional credit card hold or refuse to rent to drivers under 21. International renters need a passport and, in many cases, an International Driving Permit, though a valid license from most countries is accepted.

At pickup, you will walk around the car with a Hertz employee or use their mobile app to document the car's condition — scratches, dents, fuel level, and mileage. This step protects you by creating a record of what damage existed before you drove it. Take photos or video on your phone as backup if the company allows it. Do not skip this step or rush through it.

Understanding the rental agreement and what you're responsible for

The rental agreement is a contract that spells out what you owe Hertz and what they owe you. It includes the daily rate, the rental period, the fuel policy, damage liability, late fees, and any add-ons you've purchased. Read the key sections before you sign, especially the damage and liability clauses, because they determine how much you pay if something goes wrong.

You are responsible for any damage to the car that occurs during your rental, with limited exceptions (such as manufacturer defects). If you cause an accident, hit a pothole, or scratch the bumper in a parking lot, you typically pay for repairs. The amount depends on whether you purchased a damage waiver from Hertz and whether your personal insurance or credit card covers rental cars. Without coverage, a single accident can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

You are also responsible for returning the car on time, with a full fuel tank, and with no additional mileage charges (unless you purchased an unlimited mileage plan). If you return it late, Hertz charges a per-hour or per-day fee. If you return it with less than a full tank, they charge you for fuel at a rate that is usually higher than what you would pay at a gas station.

Costs beyond the daily rate: fees, add-ons, and damage liability

The advertised daily rate is only part of what you pay. Hertz adds taxes (which vary by state and county), a facility fee (usually $10 to $15 per day), and airport concession fees if you rent at an airport location. These can add 20 to 40 percent to the base rate.

Optional add-ons include a damage waiver (also called Loss Damage Waiver or LDW), which limits your liability for damage to a small deductible instead of the full repair cost; additional drivers (usually $10 to $15 per person per day); GPS or mobile phone service; child car seats; and fuel prepayment (where you pay for a full tank upfront at a set price). None of these are required, but many renters purchase them for convenience or peace of mind.

Late return fees depend on how late you are. Returning the car a few minutes late usually does not trigger a charge, but returning it hours late or on a different day results in additional daily rental charges. Some locations charge an hourly rate for returns that are a few hours late. Returning the car to a different location than where you picked it up also costs extra — sometimes $50 to $200 or more, depending on the distance.

Insurance and damage coverage: what you need to know

Hertz offers several coverage options at the rental counter. A damage waiver (LDW) limits your out-of-pocket liability for damage to a small deductible, usually $0 to $1,000, depending on the plan. This is optional, but without it you are responsible for the full cost of repairs if the car is damaged.

Before you buy Hertz's coverage, check whether your personal auto insurance covers rental cars — many policies do, and you may already have the protection. Also check your credit card's rental car coverage; many premium cards (especially those aimed at business travelers) cover damage and liability on rental cars when you use the card to pay for the rental. If you have either of these, buying Hertz's coverage is redundant and wastes money.

Liability coverage (which covers damage you cause to other people's property or injuries you cause to others) is typically included in your personal auto insurance and is required by law. Hertz offers supplemental liability coverage if you want extra protection, but most renters do not need it. Read your personal policy or call your insurance company before your rental to confirm what is and is not covered.

How to reserve a car and what to expect at pickup and return

You can reserve a Hertz car on their website, through their mobile app, by phone, or in person at a location. Online and app reservations are usually fastest and let you lock in a rate. When you book, you choose your pickup and return dates, times, and locations; the type of car you want; and any add-ons. Hertz will show you the total estimated cost, including taxes and fees.

At pickup, arrive at least 15 minutes before your reservation time. Bring your driver's license, credit card, and proof of insurance. The agent will verify your information, show you the car, walk you through the condition inspection, explain the rental agreement, and hand you the keys. The whole process usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. If you are in a hurry, some Hertz locations offer express checkout via mobile app, which can speed things up.

At return, drive to the location you reserved, park in the return area, and turn in the keys. An agent will inspect the car for damage, check the fuel level and mileage, and process your return. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. You will receive a receipt showing any additional charges. If you purchased a damage waiver and the car has minor damage, the waiver should cover it up to your deductible.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

One of the most common mistakes is not reading the rental agreement before signing. Many renters discover unexpected charges after they return the car because they did not understand the fuel policy, late fee structure, or damage liability terms. Spend five minutes reading the key sections, especially anything about damage and fees.

Another mistake is not documenting the car's condition at pickup. If you skip the walk-around or rush through it, Hertz may later charge you for damage that was already there. Take your time, point out every scratch and dent, and ask the agent to note it on the agreement. If the app allows photos, take them.

A third mistake is buying insurance coverage you already have. If your personal auto insurance or credit card covers rental cars, purchasing Hertz's damage waiver is a waste of money. Call your insurance company or credit card issuer before your rental to confirm coverage.

Returning the car late, even by a few hours, can trigger substantial fees. If you think you might be late, call Hertz ahead of time to ask about extending your reservation. It is usually cheaper to extend the rental period than to pay late fees.

What to do if there's damage or a dispute

If you cause damage during the rental, report it to Hertz when ready — do not wait until return. The sooner they know, the sooner they can assess it and the less likely they are to charge you for additional damage that happens after you report it. Take photos of the damage and get a written statement from the agent.

If Hertz charges you for damage you believe you did not cause, or if you believe the charge is excessive, ask to see photos or a repair estimate. You have the right to dispute the charge with your credit card company if you believe it is incorrect. Keep your rental agreement, receipt, and any photos or correspondence with Hertz.

If you were in an accident and your insurance is handling the claim, provide Hertz with your insurance information and claim number. Your insurance company will work with Hertz to settle the damage claim. Do not agree to pay out of pocket if your insurance covers it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a Hertz car if I don't have a credit card?

Hertz requires a credit card in the renter's name as the primary payment method. Debit cards are not accepted. If you do not have a credit card, you will not be able to rent from Hertz. Some other rental companies may accept debit cards with additional requirements, so you could explore other options.

What happens if I return the car with damage I didn't cause?

If the damage was already there when you picked up the car and you documented it during the walk-around, you should not be charged. This is why the condition inspection at pickup is so important. If Hertz charges you anyway, dispute it with your credit card company and provide your photos or the agent's notes from pickup.

Do I have to buy Hertz's damage waiver?

No, it is optional. Before you buy it, check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card covers rental cars. If either does, you already have protection and do not need to pay for Hertz's waiver. If you have no other coverage, the waiver is worth considering, especially for longer rentals or if you are an inexperienced driver.

What if I need to return the car early or extend my rental?

You can modify your reservation online, through the app, or by calling Hertz. If you return early, you typically pay only for the days you used the car. If you extend, you pay the daily rate for the additional days. It is usually cheaper to extend your reservation than to return late and pay late fees.

Can someone else drive the car if I'm the renter?

Only if you add them as an additional driver at the rental counter and pay the additional driver fee. If someone else drives the car without being listed on the agreement, you are liable for any damage or violations, and Hertz's insurance may not cover the rental. Always add additional drivers before they drive the car.