A Rookies Guide to Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a lot of fun, just plain fun.your agent to see if you are covered during your
Car rentals offer the renter the opportunity touse of a rental car. If your personal auto policy
drive a car, truck or SUV that they normallycovers you, there is no need to purchase a policy
would not or could not buy. Renting a car is for afrom the rental company.
weekend get away, to impress someone or just4- It is wise to call several car rental companies
to have something different to drive for a coupleto inquire about prices, car availability and specials.
of days are some of the most popular reasonsAsk about options such as upgrades, pick up and
to visit a rental company. However, as fun as it isdrop off services, unlimited mileage and weekend
to rent cars, there are some not so fun thingsversus weekly rental prices. Many companies will
that must happen before you drive it off the lot.also offer special deals to customers who are
1- Keep in mind that most rental companies willmembers of other organizations (i.e. credit unions,
not rent to any driver under the age of 25. If youwarehouse clubs, etc).
fall under that magic number, you more than likely5- After you have called around, found the best
will need to get an older relative or friend to signdeal and reserved your choice car; it is time to
the actual contract for you.pick it up. Be sure to have all of your personal
2- You will of course, need a valid drivers licensepaperwork with you, including your auto policy if
to rent the car. If you do not have a license, theyyou will not be buying theirs. Before you sign the
will not rent to you under any circumstances.contract, read through it and ask any questions
Most companies will also require you to reserveyou may have.
your car with the use of a major credit card,6- Make sure you know all the rules and
however, you can pay in cash if you wouldregulations on the car as for when you bring the
prefer.car back to the company when you have finished
3- You do not need to have personal autoit they cannot demand money of you for a
insurance to rent a car; they will ask you if youreason you are not aware off. and incase you
would like to purchase their insurance for thecrash or are in a accident you need to know
duration of the rental contract. If, however, youwhat to do.
have your own insurance policy, be sure to call