Planning a trip to Nashville and considering car hire? Understanding the renter requirements and payment policies is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before you pick up your rental car in Nashville, ensuring you’re well-prepared and ready to hit the road.
Essential Renter Requirements for Nashville Car Hire
To rent a car in Nashville, certain requirements must be met by all renters and additional drivers. These are in place to ensure the safety and security of both the renter and the rental company.
Age Restrictions
The minimum age to hire a car in Nashville is 21 years old. However, renters between 21 and 24 years of age should be aware of an underage surcharge of $25 per day. This age group is also restricted to specific vehicle classes, which typically include:
- Economy cars
- Compact cars
- Intermediate cars
- Standard cars
- Full Size cars
- Cargo Vans
- Minivans
- Pickup Trucks
- Compact SUVs
- Small SUVs
- Standard SUVs (all with seating for up to five passengers)
It’s important to note that provisional licenses are not accepted for car hire. All drivers must possess a valid driving license.
Driving License and Identification
A valid driving license is mandatory for all renters and additional drivers. The name and address on the driving license must match the renter’s current home address. An exception to the address matching rule is made for active duty military personnel.
Debit Card Usage for Car Rental in Nashville
Using a debit card for car hire in Nashville has specific conditions, especially at airport locations. Debit cards are generally accepted at Nashville airport car hire locations only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary.
When using a debit card, be aware that the funds available in your account will be reduced by the rental amounts. Furthermore, renters are responsible for any overdraft fees that may be incurred. For detailed information on debit card usage, refer to the specific Forms of Payment Policy of the car hire company.
It’s also important to note that only a spouse or domestic partner can be added as an additional driver when using a debit card, other additional drivers are typically not permitted under these circumstances.
Payment Policies for Car Hire in Nashville
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is essential when you arrange your car hire in Nashville. Most major car rental companies offer a variety of payment options for your convenience.
Accepted Payment Methods
The following forms of payment are commonly accepted for car rentals in Nashville:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Cards (under specific conditions, as mentioned above)
Typically, the estimated total for your car hire, as shown during your online reservation or in your email confirmation, will be charged to your chosen payment method. If you modify your rental, the total amount may change, and the updated amount will be charged to the same form of payment.
Upon collecting your rental car, you will be required to sign a rental contract, which includes a Rental Agreement Summary and Additional Terms and Conditions. It is crucial to read this contract carefully before signing.
Deposit Amount
To cover potential additional costs that may arise during your rental period, a deposit is usually required at the time of rental. The deposit amount can vary depending on the vehicle class. For certain premium and luxury vehicles, including:
- Electric Luxury SUVs
- Full Size Elite Electric Sedans
- Intermediate Sport Luxury Sedans
- Premium Luxury Sedans
- Electric Luxury Sedans
- Premium Luxury SUVs
- Extended Luxury SUVs
- Limo Vans
- Corvettes
A deposit of $400 or $850 will be required. This deposit will be held and will not be available for your use until the vehicle is returned.
You must use an accepted credit or debit card for the deposit. Money orders and prepaid cards are not accepted for the deposit amount at the time of rental, although they might be accepted for payment at the end of the rental. Cash is generally not accepted at any point.
If you incur additional charges during your rental, these amounts may be deducted from your deposit. If not deducted from the deposit, these charges will be applied to the payment method you provided at the time of rental, unless you provide an alternative accepted payment method.
Remember, if using a debit card for the deposit or any other charges, the funds will be immediately reduced from your account balance, and you will be responsible for any overdraft fees.
Additional Payment Information
In addition to the primary payment methods, some car hire companies may accept credit cards listed on your Renter’s Profile or Loyalty Account (like Emerald Club or E Club) as payment for all rental charges.
All charges will be processed as an authorization hold and eventually charged to your credit or debit card, or directly charged to your debit card.
For complete details regarding debit card usage and general rental requirements for your car hire in Nashville, always refer to the specific Renter Requirements Policy and Forms of Payment Policy of the rental company you choose. Understanding these policies will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable car rental experience in Nashville.
