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Renting a car is usually pretty straightforward, but there are a few details that are easy to miss when you are booking a trip. National Car Rental has different requirements depending on the rental, so knowing what you need before picking up the car can save some time and surprises later.

What Do You Need to Rent a Car?

When picking up a National Car Rental in the U.S., you will generally need a valid driver's license and a credit card in the renter's name. The exact requirements can vary by location, vehicle and rental type, so it is worth checking the details of your reservation before you arrive. If someone else will be driving the car, they may also need to be added as an additional driver and meet National's requirements. This is particularly important for longer road trips when you plan to share the driving.

Booking and Choosing a Car

You can make a reservation online or through National Car Rental's reservation team. One thing to keep in mind is that National guarantees the vehicle category rather than a specific make or model, so you should not expect to reserve an exact car. If your plans change, reservations made through National's website can be viewed or modified online before the rental. Reservations made through another booking service generally need to be changed or cancelled through that same service.

Can You Pick Up the Car in One City and Return It Somewhere Else?

Yes, one-way rentals are available, although an additional transfer or drop-off charge may apply. The amount depends on the distance between the pickup and return locations. This can be useful for a road trip when you do not want to drive all the way back to your starting point. It is worth checking the fee before booking, though, since it can vary depending on the route.

A Few Things to Know About the Rental

National's rental rates are based on a 24-hour rental period, so returning the car late can result in additional charges. The company also offers accessories such as baby seats and GPS, although these are subject to availability. You should also have a credit card available when starting the rental. National Car Rental may place a pre-authorization on the card as a security deposit, with the amount depending on factors such as the vehicle, rental period and final charges.

What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?

If you have an accident, National Car Rental asks renters to contact the appropriate authorities and notify the rental location within 24 hours. Roadside assistance is also available when the appropriate protection coverage has been purchased. Lost keys, locked keys inside the vehicle and running out of fuel can result in additional charges, so these are worth keeping in mind before setting off. And if you leave something in the car after returning it, contact the rental office as soon as possible, since National's rental agreement does not make the company responsible for forgotten belongings.

For most travelers, the important thing is simply to check the rental requirements before the trip. Knowing what documents and payment method you need, understanding the return policy, and checking any additional charges in advance can make the whole National Car Rental experience much easier.

Renting a car can make a trip much easier, especially if you are flying into a new city or planning to visit several places. National Car Rental has a few features that are particularly useful for travelers who want a simpler pickup experience.

Emerald Club Is Worth Knowing About

National Car Rental's Emerald Club connects directly with your rental reservations and gives frequent renters some useful extras. At participating locations, members can use the Emerald Aisle and choose an available car instead of waiting to be assigned one.

Tip: Add your Emerald Club number when you make the reservation. Otherwise, you may not get all the benefits associated with your membership.

Choosing Your Own Car

The Emerald Aisle is probably one of National Car Rental's more convenient features. You can see what is available when you arrive and choose a vehicle that works for your trip. You may not get a particular make or model, but having some choice is nice when you are traveling with luggage or a larger group.

Airport Pickup and Return

National Car Rental has locations at many major airports, which is convenient if you want to get on the road as soon as you land. The app can also provide directions to the rental location and help you find a gas station before returning the car. That can save some last-minute searching when you are heading back to the airport.

One-Way Rentals for Road Trips

Planning to visit several cities? Check National Car Rental's one-way rental options. Depending on the locations and vehicle, you may be able to pick up your car in one city and return it somewhere else. It can be much easier than driving all the way back just to drop off the rental.

A Few Things to Check

As with any rental car, check the pickup location, return rules, vehicle size and any additional charges before booking. Availability can also vary between locations, so do not assume that every National Car Rental branch offers exactly the same service.

For a vacation, airport rental or longer road trip, National Car Rental is worth considering if you want a straightforward rental experience and some extra flexibility when picking up your car.