Renting a car at Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers a convenient way to explore Music City and its surrounding areas. However, to ensure a smooth rental experience, it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and payment policies in place. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before picking up your keys and hitting the road.
Essential Renter Requirements at Nashville Airport
Like most car rental services, Nashville Airport Car Rentals have specific criteria renters must meet. These policies are designed to ensure the safety and security of both the renter and the rental company’s vehicles.
Age Restrictions for Renters
The minimum age to rent a car at Nashville Airport is 21 years old. However, renters aged 21 to 24 are considered underage and are subject to a daily surcharge, typically around $25 per day. It’s important to note that while younger renters are permitted, their vehicle class options may be limited. Generally, renters in this age group can choose from economy to full-size cars, minivans and cargo vans, pickup trucks, and compact to standard SUVs with a passenger capacity of up to 5 people.
Driver’s License Requirements
A valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and additional drivers. Learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted. The driver’s license must be in the renter’s name and valid throughout the rental period. For debit card users at airport locations, the address on the driver’s license must match the renter’s current home address, except for active duty military personnel. For more detailed information, refer to the Driver’s License Information Policy provided by the rental company.
Debit Card Usage and Policies
Using a debit card for your Nashville airport car rental is possible, but often comes with specific conditions. At Nashville Airport locations, debit cards are generally accepted at the time of rental only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This policy may vary depending on the specific rental agency, so it’s always best to confirm directly with your chosen provider.
When using a debit card, be aware that the funds available in your account will be reduced by the rental amount and any applicable deposit. It’s also crucial to understand that you are responsible for any overdraft fees that may occur. For comprehensive details regarding debit card usage, it’s recommended to review the Forms of Payment policy of the specific car rental company at Nashville Airport.
Insurance Verification for Specific Vehicle Classes
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary and who intend to rent certain premium vehicle classes, insurance verification is required. This typically applies to vehicles such as Full Size Luxury Sedans, Premium Luxury Sedans, Midsize Sport Luxury Sedans, Electric Luxury Sedans, Premium Luxury SUVs, Extended Luxury SUVs, Electric Luxury SUVs, Limo Vans, and Corvette models. In these cases, renters must provide proof of a transferable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance policy at the time of rental.
Understanding Payment Forms and Deposit Policies
Knowing the accepted forms of payment and deposit requirements is essential for a hassle-free car rental experience at Nashville Airport.
Accepted Forms of Payment
Most major car rental companies at Nashville Airport accept a variety of payment methods, including:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Cards (under specific conditions as mentioned above)
It’s important to note that while debit cards are accepted under certain conditions, prepaid cards and money orders are generally not accepted at the time of rental, especially for the initial deposit. Cash is also not accepted. However, money orders and prepaid cards might be acceptable for paying any outstanding balance at the end of your rental after returning the vehicle.
Deposit Amount and Policy
To cover potential additional charges incurred during your rental, a deposit is usually required. For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary, a standard deposit of $400 is generally applied. However, for premium and luxury vehicle classes such as Performance Sport, Full Size Luxury SUV, Electric Luxury SUV, Full Size Elite Electric Sedan, Midsize Sport Luxury Sedan, Full Size Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury Sedan, Electric Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury SUV, Extended Luxury SUV, Limo Van, and Corvette, the deposit amount increases to $850.
This deposit is held and will not be available for your use during the rental period. It will be refunded after the vehicle is returned, provided there are no additional charges. Any extra costs incurred during the rental period may be deducted from the deposit. If not deducted from the deposit, these charges will be applied to the payment method provided at the time of rental, unless an alternative accepted payment method is provided.
It is also worth noting that credit cards listed on your Renter’s Profile or Loyalty Account (like Emerald Club or E Club) with sufficient credit are often accepted for all rental charges.
In summary, all charges will be authorized and held against your credit or debit card, or directly charged to your debit card. Always confirm specific payment and deposit policies with your chosen Nashville airport car rental provider to avoid any surprises when you arrive to pick up your vehicle.
By understanding these renter requirements and payment policies for Nashville airport car rentals, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience as you begin your journey in Nashville.
