Know your rights at the rental counter

General consumer information, not legal advice. Laws vary by state.

Before you go

• Save your booking confirmation showing the total quoted price, taxes and fees.
• Call your auto insurer and card issuer to learn what rental coverage you already have. Bring proof of insurance.

At the counter

• Ask for an itemized total before you sign, and ask which items are optional.
• Decline collision/loss damage waivers, liability, roadside, tire/glass and toll packages you do not need. Say it clearly, and check the agreement lines show "declined."
• Do not let anyone rush you. You may read the whole agreement before initialing.
• Compare the final total to your quote. If it is higher, ask why before you leave the counter.
• Ask for a copy of everything you sign or are asked to sign.
• Recording rules differ: some states (including Florida) need everyone's consent. Ask first, or take notes.

If you were overcharged

• Ask for a written correction and a manager. Note names, times and exact words.
• Think carefully before signing any release that offers a partial refund in exchange for giving up your card-dispute rights.
• File a dispute with your card issuer (Fair Credit Billing Act); there are time limits, usually 60 days from the statement.
• Complain to your state attorney general (Florida: MyFloridaLegal.com, 1-866-9NO-SCAM), the FTC, and the BBB.
• Post a review so other renters know what to expect.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to buy the rental company's insurance or collision waiver?

In most U.S. states, collision/loss damage waivers, supplemental liability, roadside and similar packages are optional. Your own auto policy or your credit card may already cover you. Ask the agent which line items are optional and decline what you do not need before you initial anything.

What should I do if I was charged more than my prepaid quote?

Keep your booking confirmation and receipt, ask the counter for an itemized correction, and if it is not fixed, file a dispute with your card issuer under the Fair Credit Billing Act. You can also complain to your state attorney general, the FTC, and the BBB.

Should I sign a refund offer that waives my right to dispute?

Read it carefully. A release that trades a partial refund for giving up your card-dispute rights may leave you with less than you are owed. You can decline and pursue a dispute instead. This is general information, not legal advice.

Can I record the conversation at the counter?

It depends on state law. Some states, including Florida, require every party's consent to record a private conversation. Ask first, or take written notes with times and exact words.

Who can post a review here?

Anyone who rented a car personally and is describing their own firsthand experience. Reviews are moderated against our content policy before they appear.