Arriving at Nashville International Airport (BNA) and planning to explore Music City and beyond? Securing a rental car at the airport is a convenient way to start your journey. However, understanding the rental policies is crucial for a hassle-free experience. This guide breaks down the essential renter requirements and payment policies at Nashville Airport rental car services, ensuring you’re well-prepared to hit the road.
Renter Requirements: Who Can Rent a Car at Nashville Airport?
Like most rental agencies, renting a car at Nashville Airport comes with specific requirements to ensure a smooth process. It’s important to meet these criteria before you arrive at the rental counter.
Age Restrictions
The minimum age to rent a car is 21 years old. However, renters aged 21 to 24 are considered underage and are subject to a daily surcharge, typically around $25 per day. Furthermore, age restrictions may apply to the types of vehicles you can rent. Generally, renters in this age group can access a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars up to full-size sedans, minivans, cargo vans, pickup trucks, and smaller SUVs with seating for up to five passengers. For premium or larger vehicles, different age restrictions might apply, so it’s always best to check directly with the rental company.
Driver’s License and Identification
A valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and any additional drivers. Learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted. The driver’s license 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 might have some exemptions regarding the address requirement, it’s always best to confirm beforehand.
Additional Drivers
Typically, only your spouse or domestic partner can be added as an additional driver without incurring extra charges or needing to meet further requirements, provided they also meet the standard age and licensing criteria. Any other individuals intended to drive the rental vehicle will need to be registered as additional drivers and may be subject to additional fees and requirements.
Forms of Payment at Nashville Airport Car Rental
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is just as important as meeting the renter requirements. Knowing what payment methods are accepted will streamline your pick-up process.
Accepted Payment Methods
Major credit cards are widely accepted for rental car payments. These generally include:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
Debit cards are also accepted at Nashville Airport rental locations, but with a specific condition: they must be accompanied by a ticketed return travel itinerary. This means if you are flying into and out of Nashville and can provide proof of your return flight, you can typically use a debit card for your rental.
Debit Card Usage and Considerations
When using a debit card, be aware that the estimated total for your rental will be charged to your card at the time of rental. If any modifications are made to your rental, the total amount might change, and your card will be adjusted accordingly. It’s also important to understand that if you use a debit card for any amounts owed, those funds will be immediately deducted from your account. Be mindful of potential overdraft fees, as you will be responsible for any such charges incurred.
Deposit Policy for Nashville Airport Car Rentals
Rental car companies often require a deposit to cover potential additional costs that might arise during your rental period. The deposit policy can vary based on your payment method and whether you have a ticketed return travel itinerary.
Deposit Amount
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary, a deposit is generally required. The standard deposit amount is typically $400. However, for premium or luxury vehicle classes, such as performance sports cars, full-size luxury SUVs, and similar high-end models, the deposit can be higher, around $850.
Paying the Deposit
The deposit must be paid using one of the accepted forms of payment listed earlier (credit or debit card). Cash, money orders, and prepaid cards are not accepted for the deposit. The deposit amount will be held and will not be available for your use during the rental period.
Deposit Refund
Your deposit will be refunded after you return the vehicle, provided there are no additional charges. If there are extra charges, such as for additional days, mileage overage, or damages, these amounts may be deducted from your deposit. If the additional charges exceed the deposit amount, you will be responsible for paying the remaining balance.
Additional Important Information
- Debit Card Requirement: It’s worth reiterating that debit cards are accepted at Nashville Airport locations only when you have a ticketed return travel itinerary.
- Unacceptable Payment Forms: Money orders, prepaid cards, and cash are not accepted at the time of rental, neither for the initial rental cost nor for the deposit. However, money orders and prepaid cards might be accepted to pay any outstanding balance at the end of your rental.
- Credit Card Profiles: If you have a credit card linked to your rental profile or loyalty account (like Emerald Club), this credit card can be used for all rental charges.
- Authorization and Charges: All charges will be processed as an authorization hold on your credit or debit card and then fully charged upon completion of the rental.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Rental Experience
Renting a car at Nashville Airport offers great flexibility for your travels. By understanding these renter requirements and payment policies, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free experience from the moment you arrive. Always double-check the specific terms and conditions with your chosen rental agency when booking your Rental Car Nashville Airport to account for any potential updates or variations in policy.
