I’ll never forget the moment I stood at the Hertz counter, jaw dropping at the additional driver fee that would add nearly $100 to my week-long rental. If you’ve experienced similar sticker shock, you’re not alone.
The good news? There are several legitimate ways to get this fee waived, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned through both personal experience and extensive research.
Understanding the Hertz Additional Driver Fee
Let’s start with the basics: Hertz typically charges between $13.50 to $14 per day for each additional driver, with a maximum charge of about $70 per rental period.
This fee can quickly transform what seemed like a budget-friendly rental into a costly expense.
You might wonder why this fee exists in the first place. Rental companies implement these charges to offset the increased insurance risk of multiple drivers and to generate additional revenue.
However, the good news is that Hertz has established several exemptions and programs that can help you avoid these fees entirely.
Primary Methods to Waive the Fee
1. Membership Programs and Status
The easiest way to get your additional driver fee waived is through various membership programs. Here are your best options:
- AAA Membership: As an AAA member, you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver at no extra cost. Simply present your valid AAA membership card at the time of rental.
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards: This free loyalty program offers various benefits, including the ability to add a spouse or domestic partner as a second driver without fees in many locations.
- USAA Membership: If you’re a USAA member, you can enjoy waived additional driver fees for your spouse when booking through the USAA portal.
2. Corporate and Business Programs
My colleague recently saved over $50 on additional driver fees through his company’s corporate account. Here’s what you need to know about business-related waivers:
- Corporate Discount Programs (CDP): Many employers have agreements with Hertz that include additional driver fee waivers. Check with your HR department about available car rental benefits.
- Business Accounts: If you’re a business owner or manager, consider setting up a Hertz Business Account, which often includes fee waivers for employees.
3. Special Circumstances and Location-Specific Waivers
During my research, I discovered several lesser-known ways to avoid these fees:
- State-Specific Regulations: California law prohibits rental companies from charging additional driver fees for spouses. Similar regulations exist in other states.
- Medical Necessity: If you require an additional driver due to medical conditions, Hertz often waives the fee with proper documentation.
- Same-Address Drivers: Some locations waive fees for drivers sharing the same residential address (proof required).
Expert Tips and Strategies
Having navigated this system multiple times, I’ve developed some proven strategies to maximize your chances of getting these fees waived:
- Book Smart: Always make your reservation through the appropriate portal (AAA, USAA, or corporate website) to ensure the waiver is automatically applied.
- Document Everything: Keep digital copies of your membership cards, marriage certificate, or proof of address readily available.
- Timing Matters: Book during off-peak times when counter agents might have more flexibility in applying discretionary waivers.
You’d be surprised how often simply asking politely about available waiver options can lead to success. I’ve witnessed counter agents go above and beyond to help customers who approach them respectfully and with the right documentation in hand.
Looking Ahead: Future Changes and Considerations
The landscape of car rental fees is constantly evolving. Hertz has been introducing more digital solutions and automated processes, making it increasingly important to secure your fee waivers during the initial booking process rather than at the counter.
Remember to always read the fine print and verify the terms of any waiver program before your rental period begins. What worked last year might have changed, and policies can vary by location and season.
Conclusion
Getting your Hertz additional driver fee waived isn’t just possible – it’s often quite straightforward if you know which path to take. Whether through membership programs, corporate agreements, or location-specific policies, there’s usually a way to avoid this extra expense.
As you plan your next rental, take a moment to review your existing memberships and relationships that might qualify you for a waiver. The few minutes you spend researching and preparing could save you significant money and hassle at the rental counter.
Keep in mind that the key to success lies in being informed, prepared, and proactive. Don’t wait until you’re at the counter to start thinking about additional driver fees. With the strategies outlined above, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the process and secure your waiver with confidence.
