How to Rent an Economy Car

There are many ways to rent an economy car. You can do so by phone, online, in person, or through a third-party discounter.

Instructions

Requirements For Renting a Economy Car

1

Be at least 21 years of age. Some companies require that a renter by at least 25. Many companies will charge extra for driver's between the ages of 21 to 24.

2

Have a current state-issued driver's license.

3

Bring a debit or credit card. Most companies will not rent you a vehicle without inputting your debt or credit account information even if you are paying in cash.

4

Decide if you want to purchase insurance from the rental car company, or use your current car insurance carrier. Adding collision insurance could add an additional $10 to $15 onto your daily rental rate. If you decide to use your current carrier, you should call and make sure your insurance carrier will cover your rental car. You may also carry a credit card that provides insurance for rental cars, or you may have rental insurance through your employer. You may need to bring your insurance card to the car rental company so they can verify that you are insured. (Contact the rental company for their specific requirements.)

5

Have a fairly decent driving record. Some rental companies conduct background screenings on would-be renters. If you have serious driving offenses such as a DUI, you may not be eligible to rent an economy car.

Find An Econony Car to Rent

6

Reserve a car online. You can go directly to major rental car companies like Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Alamo and reserve a car online with a credit or debit card online. You will have to show a driver's license for all of those who will be driving the vehicle when you pick it up. For the best rate, you should visit each site and compare prices.

7

Reserve a car through a travel discount website. Websites such as Expedia, Orbitz, and Priceline allow customers to rent vehicles. Select the "Cars" option on each site and enter your desired pickup location and dates you will be renting the vehicle. The sites will list prices for different rental car types (e.g. economy or full-size) and possibly different rental car companies. You can reserve your rental car with a credit or debit card online. You will be required to show a driver's license when you pick up your car.

8

Reserve a car in person. Contact information or browse through the yellow pages to find the addresses of local rental companies and go down in person and rent your economy car. Make sure to bring your driver's license and, if applicable, your insurance information.

9

Call the rental company and reserve a car by phone. You can reserve the car using a debit or credit card. When you pick up the car, you will be required to show a current driver's license.