How Hertz car rentals work for everyday US travelers

Hertz car rentals give US travelers a way to access a car only when they need it instead of owning one full time. The company operates rental locations at many major US airports and in local neighborhoods, offering vehicles for business trips, vacations, and short-term use.

As of: 05/31/2026 | Reading time: approx. 9 minutes

By the AD HOC NEWS editorial team - specialized in product-focused market coverage.

What Hertz car rentals are and how they work

Hertz car rentals are a service where customers book a car for a limited time, pick it up at a rental location, and return it when the rental period ends. This model lets drivers match car type and rental length to each trip instead of committing to ownership.

To use Hertz car rentals in the United States, a customer typically reserves online or via the app, selects a vehicle category such as economy, SUV, or premium, and chooses a pickup and return location. At pickup, the driver presents identification and a valid payment method, then receives the keys and rental agreement.

Hertz car rentals usually include options for extras like child seats, additional drivers, and navigation devices. Customers can also choose fuel and protection options during booking or at the counter, letting them tailor the rental to their comfort level and travel plans.

Why Hertz car rentals matter for US consumers and businesses

Hertz car rentals are important for US travelers who fly into airports and need local transportation without using ride-hailing for every trip. The service offers predictable access to a vehicle, which can make road trips, family visits, and business travel simpler.

For US businesses, Hertz car rentals offer a way to equip employees with vehicles for client visits, sales trips, and project work without maintaining a large company fleet. This flexibility can help companies manage travel costs by paying only when a car is required.

Hertz car rentals also serve US residents when their own cars are in the shop. Rental coverage connected to insurance or car repair arrangements can keep drivers mobile while their personal vehicle is unavailable, which is particularly useful in regions with limited public transportation.

Hertz car rentals in the US and global market

In the United States, Hertz car rentals are present at many major airports and in city and suburban locations, which helps customers pick up a vehicle near where they arrive or live. This network is designed to support both domestic travelers and international visitors.

Hertz car rentals also support cross-border and international travel by offering one-way rentals between some locations. Travelers may land at a US airport, rent a car, drive to another city, and return the vehicle there, depending on specific location policies.

In the global car rental market, Hertz car rentals compete with other providers offering similar services and vehicle categories. For US customers, this competition can influence pricing, selection, and service standards, encouraging providers to refine booking experiences and customer support.

• Short-term access to a car without ownership
• Booking via website or mobile app
• Vehicle categories from economy to SUVs
• Airport and neighborhood locations
• Options for business and leisure travel
• Extras like child seats and additional drivers

Frequently asked questions about Hertz car rentals

How do I book Hertz car rentals in the US?
You typically book Hertz car rentals through the company website, mobile app, or by phone. During booking, you choose location, dates, and vehicle category, then provide driver and payment details to confirm the reservation.

What documents are needed for Hertz car rentals?
For most US rentals, customers usually present a valid driver license in the name of the main driver and a qualifying payment card. Additional documents may be required depending on rental location and customer profile.

Can I rent different car types with Hertz car rentals?
Hertz car rentals generally offer various categories such as compact, midsize, SUVs, and larger vehicles. Availability can depend on the specific rental location, timing, and demand for particular vehicle types.

Hertz Holdings operates the Hertz car rentals brand in many markets. The product sits within a broader portfolio of mobility and rental services focused on airport and local customers.

Hertz Holdings stock is associated with ISIN US42809H1077 and is part of the wider US equity market. Investors regard it as separate from the rental decisions individual customers make when choosing a vehicle.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute investment advice. Stocks are volatile financial instruments.