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Requirements for Renting
Reserving My Car
Renting My Vehicle
What is your cancellation policy?
Valuable Upgrades and Discounts
Paying For My Rental
Purchasing Insurance Protection
While I'm Renting
After Renting
Requirements for Renting
Age Restrictions
What are the age requirements for renting?
Underage Requirements
Corporate-operated Locations
Since fees and permissible vehicle types vary by location, it's best to find the underage requirement in the U.S. city where you are renting prior to picking up your rental.
In most U.S. states, rather than requiring customers to be 25 to rent, Budget corporate-operated locations rent to customers between the ages of 21-24 with the following provisions:
- Renters 21-24 must present a valid, acceptable credit card (debit cards are not permitted) and a valid driver's license (subject to screening of your driving record).
- At time of rental, an additional $25-per-day underage surcharge for these drivers will be applied.
- Drivers between the ages of 21-24 will not be permitted to rent luxury cars, mini vans, 12-passenger vans, specialty vehicles, full-size SUVs or premium SUVs.
- If a renter wishes to add an additional driver to the rental policy, the second driver must be 25 or older, and present a credit or debit card. There are some select locations that do not accept a debit card. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page.
- At corporate-operated locations in Connecticut, Iowa, Idaho, Washington, D.C., and select locations in New Jersey, the renter is required to be at least 25 years of age with a valid, acceptable credit card and driver's license.
In New York State at corporate-operated locations, the minimum rental age is 18 with a valid, acceptable credit card and driver's license, and an additional $44-per-day underage surcharge for drivers 18-24 years old will be applied
Other Age Exceptions
Insurance Replacement
At corporate-operated locations, a customer involved in an Insurance Replacement from one of the following companies may rent at the minimum age of 18: Allstate, American Family, Bristol-Myers Squibb, CCRG Claims, Progressive, State Farm, Travelers.
Corporate Accounts
At corporate-operated locations, drivers and additional drivers who are employees of the same company, on company business, and renting with their employer's BCD corporate rates, must be at least 21 years of age, or may be 18 years of age if employed with the U.S. Government on travel orders.
Select corporate customers and insurance/service replacement rental customers may be exempt from the underage fee. Check with your account representative to see if your company account is eligible.
Government Renters Including Those in the U.S. Military
Budget Rent A Car is proud to deliver unsurpassed rental car service to those who serve our country. At corporate-operated locations,
- For U.S. Government (military & civilian) personnel WITH a government travel order or purchase order, minimum rental age is 18 years of age for all rates. No underage surcharge applies.
- For U.S. Government (military & civilian) personnel WITHOUT a government travel order or purchase order, minimum rental age is 21 years of age for all rates, except 18 years of age only in New York State. No underage surcharge applies. “U.S. Government personnel” includes military as well as civilian employees (for example, FEMA, U.S. Postal Dept., Navy, Army, etc.). The minimum age policy applies to both corporate and leisure rates.
Renters with a Disability
At corporate-operated locations, there is no underage surcharge for renters with a disability when either the renter with the disability or the authorized driver is over the age of 25. If both the renter with a disability and authorized driver are under the age of 25, an underage surcharge will apply.
Inbound Tour Renters
Inbound tour customers are permitted to rent from Budget corporate-operated locations at the minimum age of 19. Inbound tour customers are defined as those not residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, or Canada who are renting on an inbound tour rate.
The minimum rental age for tour customers residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, or Canada will remain at 21. An underage surcharge may apply for renters under 25.
Licensee-owned Locations
U.S. Budget licensee-owned location age rules vary, however most allow a minimum age of 18-25 for a small surcharge.
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
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Driving Credentials
What kinds of credentials do I need?
Since rental terms can vary from location to location, it’s a good idea to read the specific terms and conditions on your rental confirmation page/e-mail. Or find your location to review your rental center’s required credentials.
Generally speaking, in the U.S. and Canada, the primary piece of identification required to rent a Budget vehicle is a valid driver’s license. (If you intend to rent outside your home country, you’ll be required to present an international driver's license.)
The preferred second required credential is a major credit card. Some locations will accept a debit card instead of a credit card, but then we might either check your credit report or require you to present a third form of ID as indicated in the “Debit Card User Instructions” below.
NOTE: All forms of required identification MUST include a name and address and MUST match the name and address on the renter's driver's license.
Debit Card User Instructions
If you prefer to use a debit card rather than a credit card, be aware that some Budget locations will check your credit with a national credit verification bureau. Other locations might not check your credit, but will require you to present a third form of identification:
For debit card customers renting at an airport location, one of the following is acceptable as a third form of identification in addition to a driver’s license and debit card:
- A round-trip airline ticket, e-ticket, or travel itinerary to or from the airport of rental, disclosing a return date and showing the renter's name
- A valid U.S. passport or current U.S. military identification card
- A current vehicle insurance card
- A current copy (within the last 60 days) of the customer's cellular phone bill, home telephone bill, bank statement or utility bill
For debit card customers renting at an off-airport location, one of the following is acceptable as a third form of identification in addition to a driver’s license and debit card:
- A valid U.S. passport or current U.S. military identification card
- A current vehicle insurance card
- A current copy (within the last 60 days) of the customer's cellular phone bill, home telephone bill, bank statement or utility bill
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
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Will you accept any other form of identification in lieu of a driver's license?
In lieu of a valid driver's license, Budget corporate-operated locations in the U.S. will accept traffic citations or summonses issued by officials in these seven states: Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. The citation only will be accepted up until the court appearance date shown on the citation or summons. A customer who presents a citation/summons in lieu of a driver's license is required to present a second means of personal identification with a signature on it. Any second means of I.D. with a signature is acceptable, such as a department store card, passport, library card or company I.D. with a signature.
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
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Will you check my driving record?
Once a customer opens a rental agreement, but before the transaction is completed, some Budget corporate-operated locations might contact the issuing Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to perform a driver’s license verification for primary and additional drivers. Budget reserves the right to deny rental if the driving history reveals any of the following:
- invalid, suspended or revoked license
- one or more convictions for reckless driving within 48 months
- one DUI, DWI or DWAI conviction within 48 months
- failure to report/leave scene of accident within 36 months
- possession of stolen vehicle or use of a vehicle in a crime
- expired license
- three or more convictions for moving violations within 24 months (excluding seatbelt violations)
- two or more accidents within 36 months
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What if I have traffic infractions?
Budget will check renters' and additional drivers' licenses to ensure that they are valid. If the driving history reveals any of the following issues, Budget is unable to rent:
- invalid, suspended or revoked license
- one or more convictions for reckless driving within 36 months
- one DUI, DWI or DWAI conviction within 48 months
- failure to report/leave scene of accident within 36 months
- possession of stolen vehicle or use of a vehicle in a crime
- expired license
- three or more convictions for moving violations within 24 months (including seatbelt violations)
- three or more accidents within 36 months
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Additional Drivers
Can someone else drive a car that I rent?
Budget will check renters' and additional drivers' licenses to ensure that they are valid. If the driving history reveals any of the following issues, Budget is unable to rent:
- invalid, suspended or revoked license
- one or more convictions for reckless driving within 36 months
- one DUI, DWI or DWAI conviction within 48 months
- failure to report/leave scene of accident within 36 months
- possession of stolen vehicle or use of a vehicle in a crime
- expired license
- three or more convictions for moving violations within 24 months (including seatbelt violations)
- three or more accidents within 36 months
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Drivers With Disabilites
Do you offer vehicles for drivers with disabilities?
As part of Budget's commitment to meet the needs of customers with disabilities, our services* include, at no extra cost, hand controls as well as four assistive and adaptive devices – spinner knobs, transfer boards, swivel seats and panoramic mirrors. Although many Budget locations carry these items as part of their regular inventory, demand can vary. Customers with disabilities – or their drivers – are encouraged to reserve assistive devices within 48 hours of car pickup. In the U.S., please call 888-221-1203 for details and confirmation. If you are not in the U.S., please find the appropriate Budget phone number for calling within other countries.
*Budget cannot provide hand controls on every make or model of vehicle, and cannot confirm a reservation for a particular make or model of vehicle on any rental.
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Can someone else drive a vehicle rented by a driver with a disability?
Drivers for renters with disabilities must have a valid driver's license, meet all driver qualifications in effect at the location, and accompany the renter with a disability to the Budget location at time of rental. Unless either the renter with a disability or the driver are underage (see Underage Requirements above), at no extra charge the driver will be authorized to drive the rental vehicle for the renter with a disability.
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Do you offer hand controls?
Yes, and many other assistive devices for use by individuals with physical challenges. For assistance with reserving a vehicle with hand controls*, please call the Budget Special Needs department, toll-free from the U.S., at 888-221-1203. If you are not in the U.S., please find the appropriate Budget phone number for calling within other countries.
*Budget cannot provide hand controls on every make or model of vehicle, and cannot confirm a reservation for a particular make or model of vehicle on any rental.
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Do you offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles?
For assistance with reserving a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, please call the Budget Special Needs department, toll-free from the U.S., at 888-221-1203. If you are not in the U.S., please find the appropriate Budget phone number for calling within other countries.
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Reserving My Car
Rates
Does budget.com have the best Budget rates?
Our lowest unaffiliated rates, always available on budget.com, won't be beaten. And we back this up with our Lowest Rate Promise. Budget also offers several discounts through this budget.com site. Visit our budget.com deals pages to see what’s currently available – and while you're there, sign up for our exclusive, money-saving Hot Deals mailing. We also offer special rates to associations, small businesses, corporations and affinity groups. Check with your organization to find out which specials are available to its members through Budget Rent A Car.
Car rental pricing is like airline pricing – if you travel at off-peak times or make a reservation seven or more days in advance, you often can get a better deal. If you have an upgrade certificate, note that upgrades are subject to availability at the time of rental. You should reserve the smaller vehicle online, and then upgrade at the counter if available. Check the terms of your upgrade to see which car classes are included.
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Why are you quoting me a higher rental rate than the last time I checked prices for the same reservation on budget.com?
Car rental pricing is a lot like airfare pricing – our prices change depending on car availability, location popularity, and many other factors. We adjust our pricing on a minute-by-minute basis to remain competitive in the marketplace. Unless it’s an advertised special offer, there generally isn’t one set rate for a particular kind of car, but rather a range of prices depending on the length and dates of your reservation. Even with special offers, the advertised rate usually applies to a limited supply of cars because we have only so many makes and models at each location. When you see a great rate for the car you want – RESERVE IT IMMEDIATELY – because it may not be available later!
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I responded to an advertised offer but the car wasn’t available. So, why did you offer the special rate?
Every location has a limited inventory of each type of car. Some cars and locations are more popular than others and they sell out quickly – especially when there are low rates on a busy rental date. Try another pick-up time if your travel dates are flexible. Then when you see the car you want at a great rate, your best bet is to reserve it immediately before someone else does.
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Where on budget.com do I enter an offer code (BCD) or coupon number?
On the budget.com home page, just below the fields where you enter your rental itinerary, there’s a field labeled "optional offer code (BCD)" where you may enter your Budget Customer Discount number (BCD). A BCD is a seven character code, one letter followed by six numbers (ex. L######). When you enter a BCD and click continue, on the next screen which shows all available vehicles at your selected location, you’ll see the rates associated with your BCD number. If you don't see the rate you’re expecting, check the terms and conditions on the BCD since the rate may not be available for the location, dates and times you’ve entered.
The coupon number field is within step 4 of the online reservation process. Coupon codes are seven characters, four letters followed by three numbers (ex. LLLL###). Simply enter your coupon code in the field provided, and the rental agent will apply your coupon benefit when you pick up your car, provided that all terms and conditions are met. Coupon benefits are not reflected in your online reservation details.
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When I enter a discount code, why doesn't budget.com always reflect my discount in the final price?
Like using a coupon at grocery store, if you have a coupon for dollars off or for free rental days, we’ll apply the discount when you return your car. If your coupon is for an upgrade to a bigger car, your rental location will have to confirm availability of that vehicle once you arrive at the rental counter. Either way, be sure that you’re using a coupon or discount code that meets all terms and conditions of the offer before the deal expires. Coupon codes are always four letters followed by three numbers – for example, LLLL###. A Budget Customer Discount (BCD) Coupon is always one letter followed by six numbers – for example, L######.
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Is it cheaper to rent on a certain day of the week or time of the month?
Rental car companies realize a significant portion of their volume during Monday-through- Friday business travel. So, generally speaking, leisure travelers can find better rates on weekends when the demand for some car types isn’t as high. Also, the longer you keep the car, the better per day price you’ll get. Time of month really doesn’t matter, but demand increases during holiday periods – so always reserve early.
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Why don't I see a lower rate when I enter my offer code?
If you don't see the rate you’re expecting when you enter your Budget Customer Discount number (BCD) check the terms and conditions on the offer as the rate is probably not available for your particular rental parameters. A BCD is a seven character code, one letter followed by six numbers (ex. L######).
If you are using a coupon (seven character code, four letters followed by three numbers such as LLLL###) coupon benefits are not reflected in your online reservation total. The rental agent will apply your coupon benefit when you pick up your car, provided that all terms and conditions are met.
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Where can I get an offer code (BCD) or coupon?
Offer codes and coupons may be found in a variety of places – in newspaper, magazine or television ads, by clicking banner ads on Web sites other than budget.com, on the budget.com home page, in our budget.com deals pages, or e-mailed to you as part of our Hot Deals mailing. Also, if you're a member of an organization or company that partners with Budget, please contact that organization directly and ask whether they have a Budget BCD code or coupon you may use for your rental.
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Why is an intermediate car rate on budget.com so much higher than an intermediate car at another car rental company?
What you’re describing is a common phenomenon across the car rental industry because different companies use different names for their car categories. For example, if you want to rent a Ford Focus at budget.com, we consider it to be a “compact-level” vehicle and it’s priced modestly. But if you shop another car rental company, they might categorize that same vehicle as an “intermediate-level” which means they will probably charge you more than Budget for the same car.
Conversely, if you simply search for “intermediate” cars, Budget may appear higher if you’re comparing one of our medium-sized vehicles to another company’s compact models that they happen to label as an “intermediate.”
Your best approach is always to compare a specific make and model at one car rental company with the same make and model somewhere else. On budget.com, you’ll see the specific make and model of the car available at your location in your selected car category on step 3 of the reservation process under your rental summary.
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Car Availability
Can you reserve a specific make/model car for me?
Yes! Just reserve one of our Driver's Choice cars to request the car you want to be waiting for you at the pick-up counter! And once you're behind the wheel of your favorite rental car, if you decide to keep your vehicle for a few more days, that's no problem at all. Since Budget offers each customer this same flexibility, please understand that we can't guarantee that the specific make or model you choose will be always be available – some of our renters undoubtedly will decide to keep their favorite car longer than they originally planned which may overlap your rental request. But if we have the car of your choice at the location when you arrive, you'll get it!
Express your unique style by arriving in an environmentally-friendly Prius, a sporty Crossfire, or one of our other distinctly different vehicles. Dream It. Reserve It. Drive it. Just ask.
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Terms of Rental
Do any special terms or conditions apply to my rental?
Sometimes. For example, in some particularly rugged parts of the country, and on specific gravel and dirt roads not regularly maintained, Budget prohibits use of its vehicles. At most locations, interstate travel is permissible, while other locations require that the vehicle does not cross state lines. Similarly, in some states bordering Mexico and Canada, travel across U.S. borders might be restricted or prohibited. At some airport locations, the quoted rental rates might apply only to airline passengers flying within 72 hours before rental. Or, if you are under 21 years of age special car type rules and surcharges will apply. Be sure to read the helpful terms and conditions that appear on the online confirmation page when you make your online reservation or on your confirmation e-mail. And when you pick up your car, the rental counter agent can answer any additional questions.
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us. Also, closely review the Rental Agreement when you pick up your car. A Rental Agreement is the legally binding contract that details the terms of rental you'll be required to agree to and sign before Budget releases a rental car to you.
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May I review my Rental Agreement in advance?
A Rental Agreement is the legally binding contract that details the terms of rental you'll be required to agree to and sign when Budget releases a rental car to you. While some customers want to read their Rental Agreements at the counter when they pick up their cars, others prefer to review terms and conditions in advance. While Rental Agreement content might vary slightly among our nearly 1,900 global locations, you can now view a copy of our Master Rental Agreement on which all other location Rental Agreement versions are based.
What's more, if you enroll for RapidRez with Fastbreak service, you'll provide your electronic signature just once on this Master Rental Agreement – and can print and save it for your records. You'll save time at the counter with each rental because you won't have to read the entire Rental Agreement or sign it at each location every time!
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Viewing, Changing or Cancelling a Reservation
How can I view my reservation on budget.com?
To view your reservation, you must have a confirmation number. This number is provided to you at the completion of your reservation. The confirmation number is an 8-digit code followed by two letters and one more number, totaling 11 alpha/numeric characters. If you don't have that information readily accessible, simply contact us.
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How do I change my existing reservation?
You can view and modify your reservation on budget.com as long as you have the renter’s last name and confirmation number for the reservation. This number is provided to you at the completion of your reservation. The confirmation number is an 8-digit code followed by two letters and one more number, totaling 11 alpha/numeric characters. Please be sure to enter that information in the View, Change or Cancel an Existing Reservation page. If you don't have that information readily accessible, simply contact us.
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When I try to change my rental to another date, budget.com won’t always let me keep the car at the same rate. Why?
Car rental rates change much as airline prices do. We promise that the rate you reserve is the rate you’ll pay – but we can't promise that the rate you reserve today will apply if you lengthen or shorten your rental period. Also, if you revise your rental period, you might not realize that you’re actually changing your daily vs. weekend vs. weekly rate schedule. Generally speaking, the longer the rental period, the lower your per-day rate.
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What is your cancellation policy?
For U.S. corporate-operated locations, in the rare instance where your credit card is required to make a reservation, you may cancel up to 48 hours in advance of your designated pick-up time without penalty. If you cancel less than 48 hours before your pick-up time, a $75 US fee will be assessed.
If you make a reservation without a credit card, we appreciate 48 hours notice of a cancellation, but will not assess a fee if you cancel after that point.
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
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How do I cancel my existing reservation?
You can cancel your reservation on budget.com as long as you have the renter’s last name and confirmation number for the reservation. The confirmation number is provided to you at the completion of your reservation. The number is an 8-digit code followed by two letters and one more number, totaling 11 alpha/numeric characters. Please be sure to enter that information in the View, Change or Cancel an Existing Reservation page. If you don't have that information readily accessible, simply contact us.
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If I book a Budget car through a travel agent or an online booking service, can I change or cancel it on budget.com?
Unfortunately, usually the travel agency or online booking agent "owns" the file you originally opened, so it would be impossible for budget.com to access and amend that reservation. Your best option would be to ask the original entity that booked your car rental to revise or cancel your reservation. Then, if you wish to book a brand new reservation on budget.com, we would be happy to assist you.
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Renting My Vehicle
What is your cancellation policy?
For U.S. corporate-operated locations, in the rare instance where your credit card is required to make a reservation, you may cancel up to 48 hours in advance of your designated pick-up time without penalty. If you cancel less than 48 hours before your pick-up time, a $75 US fee will be assessed.
If you make a reservation without a credit card, we appreciate 48 hours notice of a cancellation, but will not assess a fee if you cancel after that point.
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
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Locations, Choices and Policies
Where are your locations?
Budget has thousands of worldwide locations, so it's easy to find a quality rental car in your area.
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How do I determine the business hours of a particular Budget location?
Simply go to our location search tool, choose your rental country/state, then select your city. In the search results that appear, you'll find addresses, maps and driving directions. Just click "additional information" for business hours or other useful information including location terms of rental.
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May I review my Rental Agreement in advance?
A Rental Agreement is the legally binding contract that details the terms of rental you'll be required to agree to and sign when Budget releases a rental car to you. While some customers want to read their Rental Agreements at the counter when they pick up their cars, others prefer to review terms and conditions in advance. While Rental Agreement content might vary slightly among our nearly 1,900 global locations, you can now view a copy of our Master Rental Agreement on which all other location Rental Agreement versions are based.
What's more, if you enroll for RapidRez with Fastbreak service, you'll provide your electronic signature just once on this Master Rental Agreement – and can print and save it for your records. You'll save time at the counter with each rental because you won't have to read the entire Rental Agreement or sign it at each location every time!
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How can I get information about a particular Budget location?
Go to budget.com and access "locations" at the top of the page. Simply choose your country and state, and then select your city. In the search results that appear, you'll find location addresses, maps, and links to driving directions and other additional information such as the location phone number or business hours.
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What types of vehicles do you offer?
Our standard fleet features Ford and Lincoln products. However, we also have many other fine car and truck types depending on the location where you’re renting. For this reason, our online reservation process is the easiest way to see available cars at your particular location. And you'll be glad to know that any Budget car you rent at a corporate-owned location is guaranteed to be less than one year old.
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Do you offer hybrid vehicles?
We offer the Toyota Prius and Nissan Altima hybrids at many of our locations. If the vehicle is available at your rental location, you will have the option of selecting it in Step 2 of our online reservation process.
Many of our other vehicles also get great fuel mileage. You'll especially want to check our selection of compact and economy cars. To save gas, consider these simple tips*:
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Can I pick up at one location and return at another?
Yes – and you won't believe how easy we make it! With our convenient and affordable one-way rentals from participating airport, downtown and suburban locations across the U.S., you have the freedom to rent in one place and return in another – often with unlimited mileage. Drive from coast to coast if you like, with no mileage surcharges, and choose from more than 600 participating U.S. locations at airport and off-airport sites. Not only that, but the longer you rent, the lower your daily rates. Reserve your one-way rental online today by simply deselecting the "I'll return car to pick-up location" check box and entering a different return location than your pick-up location. (TIP: If you’re quoted a price-per-mile charge in the rate summary of the online reservation tool, and don’t see a mention of “unlimited mileage,” it means that the locations you've selected don't participate in the unlimited mileage one-way program.)
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Do you rent cars by the hour?
We require all customers to rent the vehicle for a minimum of 24 consecutive hours. If you return the vehicle prior to meeting the 24-hour requirement, you will be charged for the full day regardless of whether you return the vehicle early.
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Do you lease vehicles?
We offer a long-term rental option for customers who need a vehicle for an extended period of time. A long-term rental would constitute a minimum of 30 consecutive days to a maximum of 330 consecutive days. The longer the rental, the greater the daily savings. Reserve your car today!
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Do you deliver vehicles?
No. However, at many locations, we offer a pick-up service to those in need of local transportation to our rental facility. Please contact the location directly to determine if it offers this service. Search for your desired location to obtain the phone number for that Budget facility.
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Do you offer a pick-up service?
At many locations, we offer a pick-up service to those in need of local transportation to our rental facility. Please contact the location directly to determine if it offers this service. Search for your desired location to obtain the phone number for that facility.
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Do you provide cab or bus reimbursement to get to your Budget location?
No. However, at many locations, we offer a pick-up service to those in need of local transportation to our rental facility. Please contact the location directly to determine if it offers this service. Search for your desired location to obtain the phone number for that facility.
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Can I rent a car to take a driving test?
No. Due to potential liability, you must have a valid driver's license to operate a rental vehicle.
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Can I take the vehicle out of the state in which I'm renting?
On occasion, permission for border crossing must be acquired from the rental office directly. Since specific restrictions may apply, it's always best to ask about any cross-border restrictions. Inquire either at the rental counter or, simply contact us.
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Can I take the vehicle out of the country in which I'm renting?
It depends. If you’re renting outside the U.S., it ‘s best to check with your specific rental location before making any plans to drive into another country. Inquire either at the rental counter or, simply contact us.
Traveling from the U.S. to Mexico
If you’re a U.S resident, you may drive a Budget car into Mexico only if you purchase Mexican Automobile Liability Insurance at the U.S. rental location. This insurance is available only at specific locations in Texas, Arizona and California. It is not available in Mexico. Foreign nationals who can’t establish legal permanent U.S. resident status or current valid visa status can’t purchase this insurance because Mexico prohibits such persons from driving a U.S. car in Mexico, making them subject to arrest and the car subject to seizure.
Traveling from the U.S. to Canada
If you’re a U.S resident, you may drive a Budget car into Canada. However, you must advise us upon vehicle pickup that you plan to drive to Canada so we may issue a Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card. This applies to rentals of all U.S.-registered cars. If you’re a Canadian resident, Canadian Customs regulations prohibit you from entering Canada with a U.S. car. So renters with a Canadian driver’s license and a U.S. license plate won’t be allowed to cross the border into Canada. Customers with a Canadian driver’s license planning to cross the border into Canada should be provided with a vehicle with a Canadian license plate, if one is available.
Rules at licensee-owned locations and locations outside of the U.S may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
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May I use a Budget car to tow?
No, towing is never permitted. Doing so could irreparably damage the rental vehicle.
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How do I determine the business hours of a particular Budget location?
Just go to budget.com and access "locations" at the top of the page. Simply choose your country and state, and then select your city. There you'll find addresses, maps and driving directions. Just click "additional information" for business hours.
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How can I get driving directions or a map for a particular Budget location?
Just go to budget.com and access "locations" at the top of the page. Simply choose your country and state, and then select your city. There you'll find addresses, maps and driving directions. Just click "additional information" for business hours.
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My Rental Rate
How is my rental rate calculated?
Your total rental rate is calculated based on the information provided at time of reservation. Quoted total rate will include any options you select during the reservation process. Our helpful counter agents will review all charges with you to ensure that your total charges meet with your approval when you pick up your car.
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Does the cost of the rental include the fuel?
Budget's rates do not include the cost of fuel. You have three options:
1. Pay in advance for a full tank of fuel and bring the car back empty. Our rates for this Fuel Service Option are comparable to the current local retail pump price. If you select this option, you should bring the car back as close to empty as possible, because no credit will be given for unused fuel; or
2. If you aren't sure how far you'll be driving, but plan to stop for gas, don't accept the Fuel Service Option. Simply bring the car back full, provide a receipt for your gas purchase, and you’ll avoid any refueling service charge; or
3. If you don’t choose the Fuel Service Option and you bring the car back less than full, you’ll pay a fuel service charge. If you drive 75 miles or more, depending on whether or not you bought fuel during your rental, this charge will be a per-mile or per-gallon rate and will be stated on your rental agreement. At most locations, if you drive less than 75 miles, an automatic $13.99 (U.S.) EZFuel™ service charge will be applied, which can be avoided if you’ve purchased fuel and provide us with a receipt.
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Why do you charge so much to refuel the car?
Unless a customer has chosen the Fuel Service Option, which is competitive with local gas prices, we prefer that renters stop at a local station and refuel the car before returning it. If the customer chooses not to do so, we charge a premium for providing this refueling service to them. That charge takes into account both direct and indirect costs of having to refuel and maintain our refueling infrastructure for customers who prefer this service. The charge also is intended to strongly motivate customers to save by refueling the car themselves.
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Do late-return fees apply?
Vehicles are rented on a daily, 24-hour basis beginning at your pick-up time. There’s a 29-minute grace period for returns. After 30 minutes late, hourly charges may apply. After 90 minutes late, a full-day late charge may apply.
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Will any other fees apply?
For Budget and all other rental car companies at many airport locations, concession recovery and facility fees may be charged. A vehicle licensing cost recovery fee may be charged as well. For U.S. Government rentals, the government imposes a $5/day Administrative Rate Supplement (GARS/GA). Please check for fees that apply to your rental in the Rates section during your reservation process. Of course, other products or additional equipment that you add at the rental counter will be extra. But on budget.com, all additional charges that are known in advance of the rental are quoted as part of your total online rate – so you’ll have no surprises when you get to the rental counter. And, if any of those additional charges go up between the time you reserve and rent your car, just submit our rate promise form and we’ll reimburse you for any additional fees that you were charged over your reserved rate. Any charges that can't be determined until after your rental, including mileage and fuel charges, will be extra and are not covered by the guarantee.
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What are surcharges?
Taxes, fees and other charges always vary by location. A breakdown of all surcharges is listed in step 3 of the online reservation process.
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Why am I being billed for surcharges?
Most surcharges are mandated for all rental car companies by the local municipality or state/federal authorities. Unlike Budget, some rental car companies do not disclose these surcharges when you reserve your car. We prefer that you are aware of all charges ahead of time – so when you pick up your car, you’ll have no surprises. If you have questions regarding any surcharges relating to your rental, please discuss the charges with a counter representative.
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Is there an extra charge to brings pets in the rental car?
Housebroken pets are invited to travel in your rental car, just as they do in your personal car. Although Budget doesn't assess an extra fee for pets, pet owners will incur an additional charge for any damage caused by animals, or any special cleaning required as a result of shedding or accidents.
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RapidRez and Fastbreak
Do I need a RapidRez Number to make a reservation online?
No, a RapidRez Number is simply a customer number that we assign you. It helps expedite your reservation and rental process because your personal information and preferences are stored with your number. Simply use your number when you make a reservation with Budget to automatically apply your personal information and rental preferences to your reservation and rental. You may apply for a free RapidRez Number at any rental counter. Learn more about RapidRez.
Once you have a RapidRez Number, you may then choose to apply for free Fastbreak service which will enable you to bypass lines at the rental counter and go directly to your rental car. If you rent frequently and are looking to save time, sign up online for your RapidRez Number with Fastbreak service, and speed through the rental process.
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When I'm making a reservation online, where do I enter my Fastbreak number?
The term “Fastbreak Number” just refers to a RapidRez Number that has a higher level of service features because of the extended personal information that you have provided us. If you have a RapidRez Number with Fastbreak service, simply enter the number in the RapidRez #/online ID field that appears when you click on "I have a RapidRez Number/online ID" on step 1 of the online reservation process.
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Extra Equipment
Can I rent additional accessories?
Depending upon your rental location, there are many options and accessories available to help make your trip safer and more enjoyable. However, we don't offer trailers or luggage compartments/racks, and seats cannot be removed from a mini van or from any other vehicle. So, if you need more space, consider renting a Budget truck or van.
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Can you confirm availability of additional accessories?
At corporate-owned locations, if your reservation is made 48 hours prior to pick up, we guarantee availability of baby seats. Within 48 hours of pick up and at locations outside the U.S. and licensee-owned locations, your request will be held with your reservation, but the rental is made on a first-come, first-served basis, so availability is not guaranteed.
At corporate-owned locations, assistive devices for use by individuals with disabilities are guaranteed if a confirmed reservation is made 24-hours in advance by calling 888-221-1203 in the U.S.
For all other additional accessories, while Budget makes every effort to honor your requests, we cannot guarantee them at the time of reservation.
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What's the difference between an infant seat, toddler safety seat, and child booster seat?
Rear-facing infant seats should be used for infants up to 22 pounds. Toddler safety seats are approved for children up to 40 pounds. If your child weighs more than 40 pounds, you should reserve a child booster seat.
Due to liability issues, Budget personnel are not permitted to install child safety seats into vehicles for customers. However, upon request, Budget will provide an instruction sheet or booklet on the proper installation of the child safety seat. Other questions regarding installation should be addressed directly with the rental location.
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What's the cost of a child safety seat?
Rates vary by location but average about $10 US per day with a maximum of $60 US per rental. You can obtain the exact price of the child safety seat for your rental on step 3 of the online reservation process.
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Is my child safety seat guaranteed to be there at time of arrival?
We do not guarantee immediate availability of our child safety seats. However, we do accept renters’ requests, and the inventory is based on a first-come, first-served basis.
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What's the cost of a ski rack?
The cost and availability of ski racks varies by location, but usually average about $7 US per day. We display availability and the cost of the ski rack at your chosen location in step 3 of the online reservation process.
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What's the cost of snow chains?
Snow chains are not offered or available as optional equipment because of the potential damage to the rental vehicle. Many local restrictions also prohibit the use of snow chains.
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Does Budget rent vehicles equipped with DVD players?
While some of our vehicles have DVD players, most don't. Although we're unable to accept reservations for this type of equipment, you may request it at the rental counter and we will do our best to accommodate you.
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Valuable Upgrades and Discounts
Rewards Programs
What types of airline, hotel and other discounts and upgrades are available?
No matter where in the world you travel, start earning valuable frequent traveler account credits today through our global partners.
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Can I earn frequent flyer miles when I rent with Budget?
If you're a frequent flyer program member with any of our airline partners, renting with Budget pays off big in frequent flyer miles, points or credits. To earn miles:
RapidRez Members with Fastbreak Service
To earn airline miles, points or credits, Fastbreak members can add their frequent flyer number when they reserve on budget.com. Be sure to use your RapidRez Number with fastbreak service for the reservation, and then enter your program information on Step 4 of the reservation process. Otherwise, you can stop at the counter and provide your frequent flyer number at participating locations.
A Fastbreak/RapidRez Number is not required to earn frequent flyer miles. To earn airline miles, points or credits, just provide your frequent flyer number at the rental counter before picking up your car at participating locations. Or get a RapidRez Number with Fastbreak service, to save time by adding your frequent flyer information when you make a reservation online.
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Paying For My Rental
Using Credit and Debit Cards for Deposits and Payments
Is a credit card needed to hold my reservation?
At most locations, no. However, some Budget locations require a credit card to secure reservations – either for a specific make/model vehicle (usually for high-demand cars or in instances where only one vehicle is available within a popular make/model), or for every car at that location. At these locations, you may cancel up to 48 hours in advance of your designated pick-up time without penalty. If you cancel less than 48 hours before your pick-up time, a $75 US fee will be assessed.
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Do you require a deposit to rent a vehicle?
Yes. Your deposit type, amount and method of payment will vary by Budget location.
Credit and Debit Card Rules
Generally, at the time of a U.S. rental, we'll require a credit card hold of total estimated charges plus 25% or $200, whichever is greater. If you're using a debit card at a location that accepts them, we'll require a hold of total estimated charges plus 25% or $300, whichever is greater. However, for insurance/service replacement rentals and tour rentals, the minimum debit card authorization hold is $100. At select locations in the Northeast and North Central regions, the minimum authorization hold is $500. Renters under 25 years of age may not use a debit card. Look at the terms and conditions on your reservation confirmations for the deposit required at your specific rental location. Some select locations do not accept debit cards at time of rental to release the vehicle, but do accept debit cards for payment at time of car return. Search for your location to find deposit rules for your location. After you find your location, just click the 'additional information' link next to your desired location to view location terms and conditions.
It's perfectly fine if you choose not to return the car on or before your scheduled return date, but we will place up to three additional holds on your card (depending on how long you keep the car) to cover expected rental charges. Upon your return of the car, all holds will be released, and the actual cost of the rental will be charged. Please note that your bank may take up to two weeks to post the released credit hold to your card. Unfortunately, we cannot be held responsible for any returned checks due to debit card hold processing.
Canadian rentals at corporate-operated locations require a credit card hold of $300 CAD for the first day, and $75 CAD for each additional day. Other countries and licensee-owned locations may vary. It’s always best to check the terms and conditions on your online reservation confirmation or on the location information page to see which rules apply for your selected location. Then, if you still have questions, please contact us.
To receive your quoted rate, some airport locations also might require you to present your airline ticket or boarding pass when you pick up your car. For full details, read the helpful terms and conditions that appear on steps 3 and 4 in the online reservation process and on your reservation confirmation page and/or e-mail.
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Can I pay with cash?
Yes. Your deposit type, amount an | 
