Car Rental Fees
Car rental fees vary significantly between different locations (cities, states) and car rental agencies. Below is the list of most common ones:
Deposit (refundable)
Car rental agencies usually require major credit or debit cards. Some companies (usually small local ones) sometimes accept cash as deposit. The deposit is normally not really charged but sometimes it is and you should read the rental contract whether this is the case.
Fuel Charge
Inquire about the exact procedure regarding fuel charge - usually you are obliged to return the car with full tank and not doing so will result in higher charge than the real cost of gasoline.
Extra Mileage
Unlimited mileage became the car rental industry standard long ago. There are, however, certain destinations where most car rentals offer only limited miles within the framework of rental agreement. Extra miles can be costly and it is important to study the contract carefully in order to avoid high fees.
Additional Driver Fee
Many car rental agencies allow one additional driver for free. Sometimes, only spouse can be added to rental agreement for no additional charge.
Underage/Overage Drivers' Surcharge
This can be charged as a regular fee or as a part of car insurance. Normally applies to drivers under 25 or 24 years and drivers over 69 but can differ from place to place.
Airport Surcharge
Car rental Airport Surcharge depends on the laws of the given state and the conditions of the specific airport. It often includes cost of security and renting the premises at the airport.
Drop-off Fee
Applies in one-way car rentals, drop-off fee can be rather high when renting in one US state and returning the car in another one.
Extra Mileage
Applies in absence of unlimited mileage policy.
Sales Tax
Sales tax is unavoidable and set by the state. Various US states have various levels of sales tax. Similar to VAT in other countries.
Late Fee
This is the least popular fee as you usually don't pay it deliberately. Various car rental companies offer different grace periods. It is very advisable to study your rental contract regarding the late fees as you may be charged another whole day of rental if you are late just 2 or 3 hours.
