Navigating your way through Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and need a rental car? Understanding the renter requirements and payment policies 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 car rental at RDU airport.
Essential Renter Requirements for RDU Airport Car Rental
To ensure you can rent a car at RDU airport, several requirements must be met. These policies are in place to protect both the rental company and the renter.
Age Restrictions for Renters
The minimum age to rent a car at RDU airport is 21 years old. For renters aged 21 to 24, an underage surcharge of $25 per day will apply. This age group is eligible to rent a variety of vehicles, including economy through full-size cars, cargo and minivans, and compact, small, and standard SUVs with seating for up to 5 passengers. It’s important to note that learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted for car rentals. A valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and additional drivers.
Driver’s License Requirements
All renters and any additional drivers must possess a valid driver’s license. This license must be in the renter’s name. For rentals using a debit card at RDU airport locations, the address on the driver’s license must match the renter’s current home address. An exception is made for active duty military personnel regarding address matching. For more detailed information, refer to the Driver’s License Information Policy of the specific car rental agency at RDU.
Debit Card Policy at RDU Airport Locations
Using a debit card for your car rental at RDU airport is possible, but with specific conditions. Debit cards are accepted at airport locations only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary at the time of rental. The debit card must also be in the renter’s name. It is important to understand that if you use a debit card for any payments, the funds in your account will be reduced by the owed amount. Be aware that the renter is responsible for any overdraft fees that may occur. For comprehensive details regarding debit card usage, please consult the Forms of Payment policy outlined below. Note that only the renter’s spouse or domestic partner can be added as an additional driver when using a debit card.
Insurance Verification for Specific Vehicle Classes
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary at the time of rental, providing proof of a transferrable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance policy is necessary. This requirement applies to rentals of the following vehicle classes: 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, and Corvette. Ensure you have the necessary insurance documentation ready when renting these vehicle types at RDU airport if you do not have a return travel ticket.
Forms of Payment Accepted at RDU Car Rental
Understanding the accepted forms of payment will streamline your car rental process at RDU airport. Various payment methods are available for your convenience.
Accepted Payment Methods
The following forms of payment are accepted for car rentals at RDU airport:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Card (under specific conditions as mentioned above)
When you make your reservation, the estimated total for the rental will be charged to your provided payment method. If any modifications are made to the reservation, the estimated total might change, and the updated amount will still be charged to the original form of payment. Upon rental, you will sign a rental contract that includes a Rental Agreement Summary and the Additional Terms and Conditions.
Deposit Amounts and Policies
To cover potential additional charges during your rental period, a deposit is required for renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary. The standard deposit amount is $400. However, for certain premium and luxury vehicle classes, a higher deposit of $850 is required. These vehicle classes include: 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.
It’s important to note that the deposit will be held and will not be available for your use until the vehicle is returned. The deposit amount is secured using one of the accepted forms of payment listed above.
Additional Payment Information
Debit cards are accepted for the deposit amount, given they meet the conditions mentioned earlier (ticketed return travel itinerary). Money orders and prepaid cards are not accepted for payment at the time of rental, including for the deposit. However, they may be used to settle any outstanding charges at the end of the rental period after the vehicle has been returned. Cash is not accepted at any point.
In addition to the primary payment methods, credit cards listed on your renter profile or loyalty account (like Emerald Club or E Club) can be used for all rental charges. All charges will be authorized and held against your credit or debit card, or directly charged to your debit card.
For further details on debit card usage and general rental requirements at RDU airport, please refer back to the Renter Requirements policy mentioned above. Being well-informed about these policies will help ensure a smooth car rental experience at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
