Renting a car can offer unparalleled freedom and flexibility for your travels, especially when arriving at a busy airport like Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). However, to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience with your Rdu Car Rental, it’s crucial to understand the renter requirements and payment policies set in place. This guide breaks down the essential information you need to know before you pick up your keys and hit the road.
Essential Renter Requirements for RDU Car Rental
Like most car rental services, RDU car rental companies have specific requirements that all renters must meet. These policies are designed to protect both the rental company and other drivers on the road. Here are the key renter requirements you should be aware of:
Age Restrictions and Underage Surcharges
The minimum age to rent a car at RDU is 21 years old. This is a standard policy across many rental agencies in the United States. If you are between the ages of 21 and 24, you are still eligible to rent, but you will likely incur an underage surcharge. This fee is often around $25 per day and is applied due to the statistically higher risk associated with younger drivers.
For renters aged 21 to 24, vehicle class restrictions may also apply. Typically, younger renters are permitted to rent:
- Economy through Full Size cars
- Cargo and Minivans
- Compact, Small, and Standard SUVs (with seating up to 5 passengers)
These restrictions generally exclude luxury or high-performance vehicles.
Driver’s License and Identification
A valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and additional drivers. Learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted for rental purposes. The driver’s license must be in the renter’s name and must be valid for the entire rental period.
It’s also important to note that the name and address on your driver’s license should ideally match your current home address. While active-duty military personnel may be exempt from the address requirement, it’s always best to have your documentation up-to-date.
Debit Card Usage for RDU Car Rental
While credit cards are widely accepted, using a debit card for your RDU car rental might come with specific conditions. At airport locations, debit cards are generally accepted at the time of rental only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This policy serves as an assurance of vehicle return.
If you plan to use a debit card, ensure that the name and address on your driver’s license match the address linked to your debit card account.
Using a debit card also means that the estimated rental total and any potential deposit will be deducted directly from your bank account. Be aware of potential overdraft fees if your account balance is insufficient. For detailed information regarding debit card usage, refer to the “Forms of Payment Policy” section below.
Additional Drivers Policy
Most RDU car rental agreements permit only the renter and their spouse or domestic partner to be listed as additional drivers. This means that unless explicitly stated in your rental agreement, friends or other family members cannot be authorized to drive the rental vehicle.
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 may be required. This typically applies to:
- 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 are renting one of these vehicle types without a return travel ticket, you must provide proof of a transferable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance policy at the time of rental.
Forms of Payment Accepted for RDU Car Rental
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is just as important as renter requirements. RDU car rental agencies typically accept a variety of payment methods for your convenience:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Cards (under specific conditions as outlined above)
When you book your RDU car rental online or via phone, the estimated total for the rental will be charged to your provided payment method. If any modifications are made to your reservation, the final rental amount might change, and the updated amount will be charged to the same payment method.
Upon picking up your vehicle, you will be required to sign a rental contract. This contract includes a Rental Agreement Summary and the Additional Terms and Conditions, which you should carefully review.
Deposit Amounts for RDU Car Rental
To cover potential additional charges incurred during your rental, a deposit is often required. For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary, the standard deposit amount is $400. However, for premium and luxury vehicle classes, the deposit can be higher, around $850. 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
- Corvette
The deposit is held and will not be available for your use until the vehicle is returned in acceptable condition. Any additional charges, such as extra mileage, late return fees, or damages, can be deducted from this deposit. If no additional charges are incurred, or if the additional charges are less than the deposit, the remaining deposit amount will be refunded after the rental is complete.
It’s crucial to use an accepted form of payment for the deposit. Money orders and prepaid cards are generally not accepted for deposits at the time of rental, although they might be used to pay for any outstanding balance upon vehicle return. Cash is typically not accepted at any point.
Credit cards listed on your Renter’s Profile or Loyalty Account (like Emerald Club or E Club) with sufficient credit are also accepted for all rental charges, including deposits and final payments.
All charges will be processed as an authorization hold on your credit or debit card and then ultimately charged to your chosen payment method.
Planning Your RDU Car Rental
By understanding these renter requirements and payment policies, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient RDU car rental experience. Always double-check the specific terms and conditions with your chosen rental agency when booking, as policies can vary slightly. Being prepared with the correct documentation and payment method will help you get on the road quickly and enjoy your trip from Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
