A Rookies Guide to Car Rentals

Renting a car can be a lot of fun, just plain fun. Carto rent a car; they will ask you if you would like to
rentals offer the renter the opportunity to drive apurchase their insurance for the duration of the rental
car, truck or SUV that they normally would not orcontract. If, however, you have your own insurance
could not buy. Renting a car is for a weekend getpolicy, be sure to call your agent to see if you are
away, to impress someone or just to havecovered during your use of a rental car. If your
something different to drive for a couple of days arepersonal auto policy covers you, there is no need to
some of the most popular reasons to visit a rentalpurchase a policy from the rental company.
company. However, as fun as it is to rent cars, there4- It is wise to call several car rental companies to
are some not so fun things that must happen beforeinquire about prices, car availability and specials. Ask
you drive it off the lot.about options such as upgrades, pick up and drop off
1- Keep in mind that most rental companies will notservices, unlimited mileage and weekend versus
rent to any driver under the age of 25. If you fallweekly rental prices. Many companies will also offer
under that magic number, you more than likely willspecial deals to customers who are members of
need to get an older relative or friend to sign theother organizations (i.e. credit unions, warehouse
actual contract for you.clubs, etc).
2- You will of course, need a valid drivers license to5- After you have called around, found the best deal
rent the car. If you do not have a license, they willand reserved your choice car; it is time to pick it up.
not rent to you under any circumstances. MostBe sure to have all of your personal paperwork with
companies will also require you to reserve your caryou, including your auto policy if you will not be
with the use of a major credit card, however, youbuying theirs. Before you sign the contract, read
can pay in cash if you would prefer.through it and ask any questions you may have.
3- You do not need to have personal auto insurance