Landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and planning to explore the vibrant city and surrounding Louisiana areas? A rental car offers the perfect freedom to discover everything at your own pace. However, understanding the rental requirements and payment policies at the airport is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free experience. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you need to know before you pick up your keys at Car Rental New Orleans Airport.
Renter Requirements at New Orleans Airport Car Rental
To ensure you can drive off in your chosen vehicle, it’s essential to meet the renter requirements. These policies are in place to protect both the rental company and the renters.
Age Requirements for Car Rental at New Orleans Airport
The minimum age to rent a car at New Orleans Airport is 21 years old. However, renters between the ages of 21 and 24 are considered underage and are subject to an additional daily surcharge, typically around $25 per day. This surcharge accounts for the statistically higher risk associated with younger drivers.
It’s also important to note that age restrictions may apply to certain vehicle classes for younger renters. Typically, drivers aged 21-24 are permitted to rent:
- Economy through Full Size cars
- Cargo and Minivans
- Pickups
- Compact, Small, and Standard SUVs (with seating up to 5 passengers)
Luxury vehicles and larger SUVs might have higher age restrictions. Always confirm the specific age policy and vehicle class restrictions with your chosen car rental New Orleans airport provider when booking.
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 license must be valid for the entire rental period.
For renters using debit cards at airport locations, the address on your driver’s license must match your current home address. An exception is made for active duty military personnel who are exempt from this address matching requirement.
Debit Card Policy for Car Rental at New Orleans Airport
Using a debit card for car rental New Orleans airport is possible, but often comes with specific conditions, especially at airport locations.
Generally, debit cards are accepted at New Orleans Airport car rental locations at the time of rental only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This means if you’re flying into and out of MSY, using a debit card is more likely to be accepted.
When using a debit card, be aware that the rental company will place a hold on your funds for the estimated rental cost plus a security deposit. This hold reduces your available balance, and you are responsible for any overdraft fees that may occur.
It’s highly recommended to check the specific debit card policy of your chosen car rental New Orleans airport agency beforehand, as policies can vary slightly between companies.
Additional Driver Policy
Most car rental New Orleans airport agencies allow additional drivers, but they must also meet the age and driver’s license requirements. In some cases, especially when using a debit card, the only permitted additional driver might be your spouse or domestic partner.
Always register any additional drivers on the rental agreement to ensure they are insured while driving the vehicle. Failure to do so could lead to complications in case of an accident.
Insurance Verification
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary and intending to rent certain premium or luxury vehicle classes, insurance verification might be required at car rental New Orleans airport. This typically involves providing proof of a transferable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability policy.
The vehicle classes that may require insurance verification 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
If you plan to rent one of these vehicle types and are not flying round-trip from MSY, contact your insurance provider to confirm your coverage extends to rental vehicles and obtain the necessary proof of insurance.
Forms of Payment for New Orleans Airport Car Rental
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is just as important as meeting the renter requirements for car rental New Orleans airport.
Accepted Payment Methods
The following forms of payment are typically accepted for rentals at New Orleans Airport:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Cards (under specific conditions, as mentioned above)
The estimated total for your rental, as shown during the booking process, will be charged to your chosen payment method. If you modify your rental, the final amount may change but will still be charged to the original payment method unless updated.
Deposit Amount
In addition to the rental cost, a security deposit is usually required for car rental New Orleans airport. This deposit is to cover potential additional charges incurred during your rental period, such as extra days, mileage overage, or damage to the vehicle.
The standard deposit amount is generally $400. However, a higher deposit of $850 may be required for premium or performance vehicle classes, including:
- 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
- Corvette
This deposit is held and will be refunded after the vehicle is returned in good condition and all rental charges are settled. The refund timeframe can vary depending on your payment method and bank.
Additional Payment Information
- Debit card deposits: When using a debit card, the deposit amount will be held, reducing your available funds until the car is returned.
- Payment for deposit: The deposit must be paid using one of the accepted payment methods listed above (credit or debit card). Money orders and prepaid cards are not accepted for the deposit at the time of rental.
- Payment at rental end: Money orders and prepaid cards can be used to pay any outstanding balance at the end of the rental, after the car has been returned. Cash is not accepted at any point.
- Loyalty program credit cards: Credit cards linked to renter loyalty programs (like Emerald Club or E Club) with sufficient credit are also accepted for all rental charges.
- Authorization and Charges: All rental charges, including the deposit and final rental cost, are processed as authorizations (holds) and then charged to your credit or debit card.
Conclusion
Renting a car at New Orleans Airport provides fantastic flexibility for your trip. By understanding the renter requirements and payment policies of car rental New Orleans airport agencies, you can ensure a smooth and efficient rental experience right from the moment you arrive. Always remember to check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen rental company, especially regarding debit card usage and insurance requirements, to avoid any surprises and enjoy your New Orleans adventure to the fullest.
