Fee glossary · Optional add-on
RSP / RSA: Roadside protection or roadside assistance plan
An optional daily fee that covers service charges for things like lockouts, lost keys, running out of fuel, jump starts, or flat-tire service, depending on the company's terms.
Also shown as: RSP RSA RAP roadside protection roadside plus
What to know
- Read what it covers. Basic roadside help for a mechanical failure of the car itself may be provided under the rental terms without the add-on; the plan usually covers renter-caused problems such as lost keys or lockouts.
- AAA and many credit cards and auto policies include roadside assistance that can overlap.
- RSP was one of the add-ons at issue in the Bacon v. Avis Budget / Payless class action (customers alleged RSP was charged after they declined it; the settlement was reached without an admission of wrongdoing).
At the counter, say
"I have roadside assistance already. Please decline RSP."
Check on your agreement
- RSP shows declined if you declined it, especially if you showed an AAA card.
On a real receipt
On the receipt behind review #1, RSP was $8.99/day ($107.88 for 12 days), added after the renters' AAA membership was applied.
If it was charged anyway
- Ask for a corrected, itemized receipt before you leave the lot.
- Do not sign a release that trades a partial refund for your card-dispute rights unless you have decided that is what you want.
- Send your card issuer a written billing-error notice within 60 days after the first statement showing the charge (15 U.S.C. § 1666; CFPB guide).
- Use the receipt checker to total it and draft the letter.
Related company pages
Frequently asked questions
Is roadside assistance required on a rental car?
No. It is an optional add-on. Check whether AAA, your card, or your auto policy already provides roadside help.
What did the Payless settlement involve?
A class action (Bacon v. Avis Budget Group) alleged Payless charged Roadside Protection and a Gas Service Option after customers declined them. A ~$19 million settlement was approved; defendants did not admit wrongdoing.
What should I do if RSP was added after I declined it?
Ask for a corrected receipt at the counter. If it is not removed, dispute the charge with your card issuer within 60 days after the first statement showing the charge and keep your notes on what was said.
Reviewed . General consumer information, not legal advice. See something wrong? Request a correction.