Landing at Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and need a rental car? Navigating the car rental process can be straightforward when you’re prepared. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the renter requirements and payment policies specifically for Burbank Airport Car Rentals, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience as you begin your journey in Southern California.
Renter Requirements at Burbank Airport
To rent a car from Burbank Airport, you’ll need to meet certain essential criteria. These requirements are designed to ensure the safety and security of both the renters and the rental companies.
Age Restrictions
The minimum age to rent a car at Burbank Airport is 21 years old. However, renters aged 21 to 24 are considered underage and are subject to a daily surcharge of $25. This underage surcharge is a common practice in the car rental industry to offset the higher risk associated with younger drivers.
For those between 21 and 24, vehicle class availability might be limited. Typically, younger renters can access a range of vehicles from economy to full-size cars, including cargo and minivans, and compact, small, and standard SUVs with seating for up to five passengers. Luxury vehicles and larger SUVs might not be available to this age group due to insurance and risk policies.
Driver’s License and Identification
A valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and additional drivers. It must be a government-issued license and current, not expired. Learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted for car rentals at Burbank Airport.
The name and address on your driver’s license should ideally match your current home address. This is a standard verification process to confirm your identity and residency. Active duty military personnel are generally exempt from the address matching requirement, recognizing their often transient living situations.
Debit Card Usage
Using a debit card for car rentals at airport locations, including Burbank, has specific conditions. Debit cards are typically accepted at the time of rental only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This means you need to show proof of an upcoming flight departing from the same airport.
If you plan to use a debit card without a return travel itinerary, you may encounter restrictions or need to meet additional requirements, such as undergoing a credit check or providing additional forms of identification and proof of insurance. It’s always advisable to confirm the specific debit card policy with your chosen Burbank Airport car rental agency beforehand to avoid any surprises upon arrival.
It’s important to note that when using a debit card, the funds available in your account will be reduced by the estimated rental cost and any applicable deposit. Be aware of potential overdraft fees from your bank if your account balance is insufficient.
Additional Drivers
Generally, only the renter and their spouse or domestic partner are permitted to drive the rental car. Any other individuals intended to drive the vehicle must be registered as additional drivers and may need to meet the same requirements as the primary renter, including age and valid driver’s license. Adding drivers may also incur additional daily fees.
Insurance Verification for Specific Vehicle Classes
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary and intending to rent specific luxury or high-value vehicle classes, providing proof of transferable auto insurance is necessary. These vehicle classes typically include:
- Full Size Luxury Sedan
- Premium Luxury Sedan
- Midsize Sport Luxury Sedan
- Electric Luxury Sedan
- Premium Luxury SUV
- Extended Luxury SUV
- Electric Luxury SUV
- Limo Van
- Corvette
The required insurance policy should include collision, comprehensive, and liability coverage. This ensures adequate financial protection in case of accidents or damages to these higher-end vehicles. If you are renting one of these vehicle types, check with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage extends to rental cars and meets the Burbank Airport car rental agency’s requirements.
Forms of Payment Accepted at Burbank Airport Car Rental
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is crucial for a smooth Burbank Airport car rental pickup. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and debit cards are accepted under specific conditions as mentioned earlier.
Accepted Payment Methods
The following forms of payment are typically accepted for car rentals at Burbank Airport:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Cards (under certain conditions, usually with a ticketed return travel itinerary)
Cash and money orders are generally not accepted at the rental counter for payment or deposits. Prepaid cards are also typically not accepted at the time of rental but might be used for final payment upon vehicle return.
Deposit Requirements
To cover potential additional charges during your rental period, 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, the deposit amount can increase to $850. These higher deposit vehicle classes often include:
- Performance Sport vehicles
- 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
- Corvette
The deposit is held and will not be available for your use during the rental period. It is refunded after the vehicle is returned in good condition and all rental charges are settled. Any additional charges incurred during your rental, such as extra mileage, late return fees, or damages, may be deducted from the deposit.
Important Payment Information
- Authorization Holds: Car rental companies will place an authorization hold on your credit or debit card for the estimated rental amount and the deposit. This hold reduces your available credit or debit balance temporarily.
- Final Charges: Upon returning the vehicle, the final rental charges will be processed. If these charges exceed the initial authorization, the difference will be charged to your payment method. If the final charges are less, the excess authorization will be released back to your account, although it may take a few business days for your bank to process and reflect the change.
- Debit Card Considerations: As with renter requirements, using a debit card means the deposit and estimated rental costs are immediately deducted from your bank account, impacting your available funds.
Conclusion: Renting a Car Smoothly at Burbank Airport
Understanding the renter requirements and payment policies is key to a seamless car rental experience at Burbank Airport. By being aware of age restrictions, necessary documentation, debit card policies, and deposit amounts, you can ensure a hassle-free pickup and start your Burbank journey on the right foot. Always confirm the specific policies with your chosen rental agency when booking your Burbank Airport car rental to avoid any misunderstandings and enjoy your trip.
