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Car Rental Checklist

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Toggle Before You Rent a Car status

Before You Rent a Car

Toggle Talk to your insurance agent to verify what coverage you have when renting a car. status

Talk to your insurance agent to verify what coverage you have when renting a car.

Toggle Talk to your road service provider to see if they cover service calls on rental cars. status

Talk to your road service provider to see if they cover service calls on rental cars.

Toggle Tuck a small flashlight into your carry-on bag. status

Tuck a small flashlight into your carry-on bag.

Toggle At the Rental Car Counter status

At the Rental Car Counter

Toggle Ask the representative how they know the car you're renting has completed its prerental maintenance check. status

Ask the representative how they know the car you're renting has completed its prerental maintenance check.

Toggle Ask the representative what to do if the car breaks down. status

Ask the representative what to do if the car breaks down.

Toggle Ask the representative what will happen if you lose the car key. status

Ask the representative what will happen if you lose the car key.

Toggle Ask for any phone numbers to call should the car get stuck or break down. status

Ask for any phone numbers to call should the car get stuck or break down.

Toggle At the Car status

At the Car

Toggle Take a walk around ; ensure there's no obvious damage. status

Take a walk around ; ensure there's no obvious damage.

Toggle Make sure the license plates are current. status

Make sure the license plates are current.

Toggle Look at the tires for inflation, good tread, and even tread wear. status

Look at the tires for inflation, good tread, and even tread wear.

Toggle Get in and check the cleanliness and smell of the car. status

Get in and check the cleanliness and smell of the car.

Toggle Check the odometer. status

Check the odometer.

Toggle Check the lights. status

Check the lights.

Toggle Spray the windshield to ensure that the washer system works and the wipers are in good shape. status

Spray the windshield to ensure that the washer system works and the wipers are in good shape.

Toggle Ensure that there's an owners manual in the glove box. status

Ensure that there's an owners manual in the glove box.

Toggle Do under-hood and under-trunk inspections. status

Do under-hood and under-trunk inspections.

Toggle Check the trunk for a spare tire, jack and lug wrench. status

Check the trunk for a spare tire, jack and lug wrench.

Toggle Open the hood and check the fluids. status

Open the hood and check the fluids.

Toggle Get in and familiarize yourself with the cockpit. status

Get in and familiarize yourself with the cockpit.

Toggle Adjust the seats and mirrors. status

Adjust the seats and mirrors.

Toggle Drive the car inside the rental lot before taking to the open road. status

Drive the car inside the rental lot before taking to the open road.

Toggle When You Drop Off the Car status

When You Drop Off the Car

Toggle Check mileage. status

Check mileage.

Toggle Check gas gauge. status

Check gas gauge.

Toggle Locate your cell phone, eyeglasses, wallet, and briefcase. status

Locate your cell phone, eyeglasses, wallet, and briefcase.

Toggle Check on and under front and back seats. status

Check on and under front and back seats.

Toggle Check the trunk. status

Check the trunk.

Toggle Check glove and storage compartments. status

Check glove and storage compartments.

Toggle Inspect the car for damage. status

Inspect the car for damage.

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Presented by:

Taylor Peterson

Taylor Peterson
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PersonalTravelAutomotive

Introduction

Our Car Rental Checklist is designed to guide you through every crucial step of renting a vehicle, from pre-rental checks to return inspections. This thorough template covers essential tasks to ensure you understand your rental agreement, check the car's condition, and know what to do in case of emergencies. By using our Checklist App, you can save and customize this template for your needs, sync across devices, and collaborate with others. Make your car rental process hassle-free and organized today!

Who it's for

This Car Rental Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.

  • Avoid forgetting - keep all your Car Rental essentials in one place (external memory)
  • Save time - start from a proven Car Rental structure instead of a blank page
  • Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
  • Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
  • Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time

How to use it

How to use this Car Rental Checklist

  • Save Car Rental Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
  • Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Car Rental (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
  • If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
  • Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.

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Scores 4.80 with 618 votes

Car Rental Checklist Frequently Asked Questions

What is one of the most important things you should do before you leave the lot with a rental car?

Before leaving the lot with a rental car, it's crucial to conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle. Check for any existing damage, including scratches, dents, or interior stains. Make sure to document these issues by taking photos or notifying the rental staff. This ensures that you won't be held responsible for pre-existing conditions when you return the car. Additionally, verify that the fuel tank is full (or at the level noted in your contract) and familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s features and controls.

How do you spot a rental car?

Rental cars often have specific characteristics that make them identifiable. Here are some tips on how to spot a rental car:

  • License Plates: Many rental companies use unique license plates that may include their logo or branding.
  • Stickers and Decals: Look for stickers indicating the rental company or special decals that distinguish them.
  • Condition: Rental cars tend to be newer models and well-maintained, often showing little wear and tear.
  • Features: Rental vehicles frequently come equipped with GPS systems or other tech features as standard.

Do car rentals look at your credit?

Yes, most car rental companies will check your credit history as part of their screening process. They typically look at your credit score to assess your reliability as a renter. While some companies may allow rentals with limited credit checks, having a good credit score can facilitate smoother transactions and may even qualify you for better rates. If you have poor credit, consider using a debit card or providing additional identification to improve your chances of approval.

How can I avoid getting scammed on a rental car?

To avoid scams when renting a car, follow these essential tips:

  • Research Companies: Choose reputable rental agencies with positive reviews.
  • Read the Fine Print: Carefully review all terms and conditions regarding fees, insurance, and fuel policies.
  • Inspect the Vehicle: Document any existing damage before driving off.
  • Beware of Extra Charges: Be cautious of add-ons like insurance or GPS that can significantly increase costs.
  • Use Credit Cards: Pay with a credit card for added protection against fraud.

Can you track a rental car?

Yes, many rental car companies utilize GPS tracking technology in their vehicles for various reasons, including fleet management and theft recovery. However, customers typically cannot access this tracking information themselves. If you are concerned about theft or loss while using a rental vehicle, it's best to inquire directly with the rental agency about their policies regarding tracking and recovery. Always ensure that you park in secure areas and keep valuables out of sight to minimize risk.

Can I rent a car with a $500 credit limit?

Renting a car with a $500 credit limit can be challenging but not impossible. Many rental companies require a higher available credit limit to cover potential damages or fees during your rental period. However, there are options available:

  • Choose Economy Cars: Smaller vehicles often have lower deposit requirements.
  • Use Debit Cards: Some agencies accept debit cards but may place a hold on funds.
  • Check Local Agencies: Smaller rental companies may have more flexible policies regarding credit limits.

What is a good credit score to rent a car?

A good credit score typically falls within the range of 670 to 739 on the FICO scale when it comes to renting a car. Having this score generally increases your chances of approval and can lead to better rates or terms. However, different rental companies have varying standards:

  • Excellent (740+): Often qualifies for premium rentals without deposit.
  • Good (670-739): Usually accepted but may require additional deposits.
  • Fair (580-669): Possible to rent but could face higher fees. Always check specific agency policies regarding credit requirements before booking.

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