Navigating the world of car rentals can sometimes feel like a maze, especially when you're looking for the best deals and benefits. But if you're a USAA member, you're in luck! USAA offers fantastic perks and discounts on rental cars, making your next trip or vehicle replacement a breeze. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of getting a rental car through USAA, ensuring you maximize your member benefits.
Your Ultimate Guide: Renting a Car Through USAA
So, you need a rental car? Perhaps your vehicle is in the shop, or you're planning an exciting road trip. Whatever the reason, as a USAA member, you have access to a network of rental car partners offering exclusive rates and advantages. Let's dive in!
Step 1: Confirm Your USAA Eligibility – Are You Ready to Save?
Before you even think about picking out your dream rental, the very first step is to ensure you're eligible for USAA membership. This is crucial because USAA's car rental benefits are exclusively for its members.
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Who is eligible for USAA membership?
- Active-duty military personnel (including those in the National Guard and Reserves).
- Veterans who have honorably separated from the military.
- Cadets and midshipmen at U.S. service academies, and officer candidates in commissioning programs.
- Spouses, widows, unremarried former spouses, and children of USAA members or those eligible for membership.
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Action Point: If you're not yet a USAA member, visit the USAA website or download their app to explore membership options and sign up. It's often a straightforward process and opens up a world of financial services and discounts. Don't miss out on these exclusive savings!
Step 2: Understand USAA's Rental Car Program Benefits – More Than Just a Discount!
USAA's partnerships with major car rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Alamo, and National offer more than just a lower price tag. Knowing these benefits upfront can save you significant money and hassle.
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Key Benefits You Might Enjoy:
- Discounted Rates: This is the most obvious perk! USAA members typically receive a percentage off the base rental rate.
- Waived Underage Driver Fees (often for ages 21-24): Many rental companies charge a hefty "young driver" fee for individuals under 25. USAA's program often waives this fee, which can be a huge saving for younger members.
- No Additional Driver Fee for Spouses or Family Members: Adding an extra driver can sometimes cost a daily fee. With USAA, your spouse or other USAA-eligible family members typically can be added for free.
- Liability Protection Included (with some partners): Certain partners, like Enterprise, offer primary liability coverage up to a certain limit ($25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury or death per accident, and $10,000 property damage or applicable state minimum). This can be a significant advantage.
- Limited Damage Responsibility: Some partnerships may limit your responsibility for damage to the rental vehicle to a certain amount (e.g., the first $8,000 with Enterprise if you don't purchase their Damage Waiver).
- Waiver of "Loss of Use" Fees: If a rental car is damaged and out of commission, the rental company can charge for the days it's unavailable for rent. USAA's program often waives these charges.
- Unlimited Mileage (on most vehicles for same-location returns): This is great for road trips where you don't want to worry about mileage caps.
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Important Note: Benefits can vary slightly between rental car partners and may have specific terms and conditions. Always review the details when booking.
Step 3: Choosing Your Rental Car Company – Partnerships That Pay Off
USAA has established relationships with several major rental car agencies. While the benefits are similar across the board, there might be slight variations in discounts, vehicle availability, or specific perks. It's wise to check a few options.
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Popular USAA Rental Car Partners:
- Hertz: Known for a wide selection and global presence. USAA members often get up to 25% off.
- Enterprise: A preferred partner, often offering waived underage fees and included liability protection. Discounts can be up to 5%.
- Avis & Budget: Offer competitive discounts, sometimes up to 35% on Pay Now rates.
- Alamo & National: Also provide discounts up to 5% on time and mileage charges.
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Sub-heading: How to Access USAA Rental Car Discounts:
- USAA Website/App: The easiest way to access the discounts is by logging into your USAA account on their website or mobile app. Look for "Shopping & Discounts" or "Rental Cars."
- Direct Partner Websites: You can often go directly to the rental company's website (e.g.,
usaa.com/hertz usaa.com/enterprise - Phone Reservations: When calling a rental company, make sure to mention you are a USAA member and provide their specific CDP number if requested.
- At the Counter: While not always recommended for the best rates, you can present your USAA membership or military ID at the rental counter to inquire about discounts. Booking in advance is always preferable for better availability and rates.
Step 4: Making Your Reservation – Booking Smart
Now that you know your benefits and chosen a partner, it's time to book your rental car!
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Sub-heading: Step-by-Step Booking Process (Online via USAA):
- Log in to USAA: Go to USAA.com or open the USAA Mobile App.
- Navigate to Rental Cars: Look for sections like "Shopping & Discounts" or "Rental Cars."
- Enter Your Details:
- Pick-up Location: City, airport code, or specific address.
- Pick-up Date & Time: Be accurate to avoid late fees.
- Return Date & Time: Again, precision is key.
- Vehicle Type: Choose the class of car you need (economy, sedan, SUV, minivan, etc.).
- Compare Options: USAA's portal will typically show you options from their partner companies with the USAA discount already applied. Compare rates, vehicle types, and specific terms.
- Review Rental Terms: Carefully read the rental agreement details, including fuel policy, mileage limits (if any for one-way rentals), and age restrictions. Even with USAA benefits, there might be specific clauses.
- Provide Driver Information: Enter your driver's license details and any additional drivers.
- Payment Information: You'll typically need a credit card for the reservation, even if you plan to pay with a debit card at pickup (check the rental company's debit card policy, as some may have stricter requirements for deposits).
- Confirm Your Reservation: You'll receive a confirmation email with all the details. Save this email!
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Sub-heading: Using Discount Codes (CDP Numbers):
- Hertz USAA CDP: 77694
- Budget USAA BCD: Y126500
- Avis USAA AWD: A177232
- For Enterprise, Alamo, and National, often the discount is applied automatically when booking through the USAA portal or specific USAA partner links.
- Always double-check that the discount has been applied before finalizing your reservation.
Step 5: Understanding Rental Car Insurance – Your Coverage Questions Answered
This is a critical step where USAA membership can truly shine. Your existing USAA auto insurance policy may extend to rental vehicles, and your USAA credit card might also offer built-in coverage.
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Sub-heading: USAA Auto Insurance and Rental Cars:
- In Most Cases, Yes: Your personal USAA auto insurance policy generally provides limited coverage for rental car damage when renting within the United States. This includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage if you have them on your personal policy.
- What's Covered: Typically, your liability coverage will pay for damages to other cars or property if you're at fault. Collision coverage would pay for accident-related damages to the rental car, and comprehensive coverage would handle damages not related to an accident (theft, vandalism, natural disasters).
- Deductibles Still Apply: If you use your personal USAA auto insurance for a rental car claim, your deductible will still apply.
- International Rentals: Your USAA auto insurance policy generally does NOT cover rentals outside the U.S. For international rentals, it's highly recommended to purchase coverage directly from the rental company or through a credit card that offers primary international rental car insurance.
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Sub-heading: USAA Credit Card Benefits:
- Built-in Coverage: Many USAA credit cards offer auto rental collision damage waiver as a benefit when you use the card to reserve and pay for the entire rental. This coverage is typically secondary to your personal auto insurance but can become primary if you don't have personal auto insurance or are renting overseas.
- What it Covers: This often covers physical damage or theft of the rental vehicle, including towing and loss-of-use charges.
- Decline Rental Company's CDW/LDW: To activate your credit card's coverage, you typically must decline the Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) offered by the rental company. Read your specific credit card's guide to benefits for full details.
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Sub-heading: Should You Purchase Additional Rental Company Insurance?
- Consider Your Coverage: Before purchasing the rental company's often expensive insurance, first determine what coverage your USAA auto policy and USAA credit card provide.
- Gap Coverage: If you feel your existing coverage isn't sufficient, or if you're uncomfortable with potential deductibles, then purchasing the rental company's additional coverage might be a wise decision for peace of mind.
- Roadside Assistance: If you don't have roadside assistance through USAA or another service, consider the rental company's option.
Step 6: Picking Up Your Rental Car – Smooth Sailing
The big day has arrived! Head to the rental car counter with confidence.
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Documents to Bring:
- Valid Driver's License: Ensure it's current and in good standing.
- USAA Membership Proof (Optional but Recommended): While often not explicitly asked for if you booked through USAA's portal, having your USAA card or app handy can be useful, especially for verifying underage waivers or additional driver benefits.
- Credit Card (in your name): The card used for the reservation, or another major credit card. Rental companies typically require a credit card for a deposit, even if you paid with a debit card online.
- Rental Confirmation: Your reservation number or confirmation email.
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At the Counter Tips:
- Verify Your Reservation: Confirm the vehicle type, rental period, and the applied USAA discount.
- Decline Unnecessary Add-ons: Rental agents may try to upsell you on insurance, fuel plans, or GPS. Politely decline anything you don't need or that's already covered by your USAA benefits.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Before driving off, do a quick walk-around and note any existing damage (scratches, dents, dings). Take photos or videos for your records. This is extremely important to avoid being charged for pre-existing damage.
- Understand Fuel Policy: Confirm whether you need to return the car with a full tank or if you pre-purchased fuel.
- Check Mileage Limits: For one-way rentals, confirm any mileage restrictions or fees.
Step 7: Returning Your Rental Car – Finishing Strong
Returning the car correctly ensures a smooth close to your rental experience.
- Return on Time: Late returns can incur significant fees. If you anticipate being late, contact the rental company as soon as possible.
- Fuel Up (if applicable): If your agreement requires a full tank, do so before returning the car. Rental company refueling charges are often more expensive.
- Remove Personal Belongings: Double-check the trunk, glove compartment, and under the seats for your items.
- Get a Receipt: Always ask for a detailed receipt upon return, showing zero balance or the final charges. Review it carefully for any unexpected fees.
By following these steps, USAA members can enjoy a seamless and cost-effective car rental experience, leveraging their membership for maximum benefit. Happy travels!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a rental car if my personal car is in the shop?
If your car is undergoing covered repairs due to a claim, USAA's auto insurance policy often includes "Rental Reimbursement" or "Transportation Expense Coverage." You can typically schedule a rental directly through the USAA app or website in the claims center, often with Enterprise as their preferred provider.
How to find the best USAA car rental discount codes?
The easiest way is to log in to your USAA account on their website or app and navigate to the "Shopping & Discounts" or "Rental Cars" section. The discounts will often be automatically applied or the specific CDP/AWD/BCD codes will be provided there.
How to add an additional driver to a USAA rental car without extra fees?
With most USAA rental car partners (like Enterprise, Hertz), your spouse or other USAA-eligible family members who live in the same household can be added as additional drivers without incurring an extra fee. Confirm this policy when booking or at the counter.
How to avoid underage driver fees with USAA car rentals?
One of the significant benefits of the USAA car rental program is the waiver of underage driver fees (typically for ages 21-24) with participating partners like Enterprise and Hertz. Ensure you book through the USAA portal or provide your USAA membership ID at pick-up to receive this waiver.
How to understand if my USAA auto insurance covers rental cars?
In most cases, your personal USAA auto insurance policy provides limited coverage for rental car damage when renting within the U.S. (liability, collision, and comprehensive, if you have them). However, international rentals are generally not covered. Always check your specific policy details or contact USAA directly for clarification.
How to use a USAA credit card for rental car insurance?
If you use an eligible USAA credit card to reserve and pay for the entire rental, it often provides secondary auto rental collision damage waiver coverage. To activate this, you must decline the rental company's Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). Review your specific card's guide to benefits for full details.
How to get a rental car for international travel through USAA?
While USAA offers discounts on international rentals with some partners, your USAA auto insurance policy typically does not extend to international rentals. It's highly recommended to purchase collision damage waiver directly from the rental company or ensure your credit card provides primary international rental car coverage.
How to extend a USAA rental car reservation?
If your rental is tied to a USAA auto claim and your vehicle repairs require more time, the repair facility will usually contact USAA directly to extend the rental reservation. If it's a leisure rental, you'll need to contact the rental company directly to extend and confirm any new rates.
How to handle a rental car accident if booked through USAA?
First, ensure everyone's safety and contact local authorities if necessary. Then, report the accident to both the rental car company and USAA as soon as possible. USAA will guide you through the claims process, explaining how your personal policy and/or credit card benefits apply.
How to ensure I receive all my USAA rental car benefits?
The best way is to book directly through the USAA website or app's dedicated rental car portal. This automatically applies the relevant discounts and incorporates USAA-specific benefits. Always confirm the applied discounts and waivers (like underage fees) at the time of booking and again at the rental counter.