7 Best Rental Car Loyalty Programs of 2026: A Renter's Guide
- fantasma70
- 4 days ago
- 15 min read
Choosing a rental car often comes down to price and availability, but what if your loyalty could unlock significant savings, upgrades, and a smoother rental experience? The best rental car loyalty programs do just that, transforming routine rentals into valuable rewards like free days, exclusive perks, and priority service. However, not all programs are created equal. Some reward frequent business travelers with speedy counter-skips, while others are perfect for families needing flexibility and value-added extras.
In this guide, we'll break down the top 7 programs for 2026, detailing how they work, who they're best for, and how to maximize every point you earn. We will explore everything from the points-based system at Cars4Go Rent A Car to the credit-based models that prioritize frequent rentals, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your travel style. For families embarking on holiday adventures, maximizing these benefits can lead to a smoother experience. Consider these helpful road trip hacks to keep everyone happy on the journey.
We’ll provide a clear, user-focused roundup with direct links and program summaries to help you make an informed choice. This guide is designed to help you stop leaving value on the table and start making every rental more rewarding. Let's dive in and find the loyalty program that best suits your needs, whether you're a business traveler in Miami or a family heading out on vacation.
1. Cars4Go Rent A Car
For travelers seeking a rental car loyalty program that prioritizes simplicity, transparency, and immediate value, Cars4Go Rent A Car presents a compelling, well-rounded choice. Based in Miami, this service is engineered for a hassle-free Florida travel experience, combining a straightforward rewards system with customer-centric perks that make it a standout, particularly for leisure and international visitors.
The Cars4Go loyalty program, known as the Go-Points Rewards system, distinguishes itself by its accessibility. Unlike complex, multi-tiered programs that require significant spending to unlock benefits, Cars4Go immediately rewards new members with 1,000 bonus points upon sign-up. This welcome bonus translates to an approximate 5% discount on a future rental, providing tangible savings from the very first interaction.
Key Program Features and Benefits
Cars4Go's strength lies in its blend of a simple points system with high-value, practical perks. Members earn points on every rental, which can be redeemed for discounts, special promotions, and even free rental days. The program is designed to reward repeat business without forcing customers to track confusing earning rates or expiration policies.
This loyalty program is enhanced by the company's core service offerings, which are particularly beneficial for its target audience:
Door-to-Door Convenience: Cars4Go delivers and picks up vehicles at Miami (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) airports, as well as hotels, train stations, and private homes. This eliminates the need for shuttle buses and long counter waits, a significant advantage for families with children or business travelers on tight schedules.
Transparent "No Hidden Fees" Pricing: The price you see online is the price you pay at the counter. This commitment to transparency builds trust and removes the budget uncertainty common with other rental services.
Complimentary Add-Ons: Members and regular customers alike benefit from inclusive perks like unlimited mileage within Florida, a free second driver, GPS units, and child seats. These add-ons often cost extra with competitors, making Cars4Go a financially savvy choice for families and groups.
Flexible Policies: The company allows for easy reservation modifications online or in person and offers lower daily rates for longer rental periods, a feature you can explore further by checking their latest rental car deals.
Ideal Use Cases
This program excels for specific types of travelers. International tourists benefit greatly from the unlimited Florida mileage and multilingual support (English/Spanish). Families can take full advantage of the free child seats and second driver option, while leisure travelers appreciate the convenience of hotel delivery for exploring Miami's beaches and attractions. The responsive customer service via phone and WhatsApp further solidifies its position as a top-tier service-oriented option.
Website: https://www.cars4go.com
2. National Car Rental – Emerald Club
National Car Rental's Emerald Club is tailor-made for travelers who prioritize speed, efficiency, and choice. The program's core appeal lies in its "Emerald Aisle," a feature that lets members bypass the rental counter entirely at many major airports. You simply book a midsize car, walk to the Aisle, select any vehicle available there (often including full-size cars or SUVs), and drive to the exit.
This "choose your own car" experience is a significant differentiator, making National one of the best rental car loyalty programs for business travelers and anyone who values a quick getaway from the airport terminal. The program is free to join and operates on a credit-based system, which is simple to understand.
How Emerald Club Works
The program structure is straightforward, rewarding frequency over rental duration. Members earn credits that can be redeemed for free rental days.
Earning: You earn one rental credit for every qualified car rental. A rental is defined as a paid rental of one or more consecutive days.
Redeeming: A free rental day coupon is earned after accumulating 7 credits at the base Emerald Club tier. This coupon covers the base rate (time and mileage) for a day's rental.
Elite Tiers: Higher status levels, like Executive and Executive Elite, allow you to earn free days faster (e.g., at 6 or 5 credits) and unlock benefits like guaranteed upgrades.
Who It's Best For
The Emerald Club shines for specific types of renters. It is an ideal fit for frequent business travelers who need to get in and out of airports quickly. Families might also appreciate the ability to select a larger vehicle from the Emerald Aisle without paying an upgrade fee. While National offers extensive coverage, travelers should check if their destination is among the participating car rental locations to take full advantage of these benefits.
Pro Tip: National frequently runs a "One Two Free" promotion, typically in the fall, allowing members to earn a free rental day after just two qualifying rentals. This is the fastest way to rack up free days.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Skip-the-counter Emerald Aisle | Aisle not available at all locations |
Choose your own vehicle | Program rewards many short rentals over one long one |
Fast earning for frequent renters | Credits expire after 36 months of inactivity |
Top tiers offer guaranteed upgrades | Higher base rates compared to some competitors |
3. Enterprise – Enterprise Plus
Enterprise Plus is built for the renter who values flexibility, wide availability, and a straightforward rewards system. The program's strength lies in its massive footprint, with thousands of neighborhood and airport locations, making it easy to earn and redeem points wherever you are. Unlike programs that reward rental frequency, Enterprise Plus rewards you based on how much you spend, making it simple to calculate your earnings.
The program is free to join and is particularly appealing to those who rent for longer durations or prefer higher-end vehicles, as the points earned are tied directly to the rental cost. Its no-blackout-date policy on redemptions provides significant flexibility, which is a major draw for families and leisure travelers planning trips around holidays or peak seasons.
How Enterprise Plus Works
The program operates on a simple points-per-dollar system, which makes tracking rewards predictable and easy. Members can redeem points for free rental days starting at just 600 points.
Earning: You earn 1 point for every qualifying U.S. dollar spent on the base rental rate. Remember, taxes, fees, and additional products are excluded.
Redeeming: Points can be redeemed online or in the app for free rental days. The key benefit here is that there are no blackout dates, so if a car is available for cash, it’s available for points.
Elite Tiers: Enterprise Plus offers Silver, Gold, and Platinum elite levels. These tiers provide point-earning bonuses (10%, 15%, and 20%, respectively) and a certain number of free car-class upgrades per year.
Who It's Best For
Enterprise Plus is one of the best rental car loyalty programs for a broad range of renters. It's an excellent choice for local residents needing a car for a weekend trip or as a replacement vehicle, thanks to Enterprise's extensive network of neighborhood branches. It also suits leisure travelers and families who appreciate the no-blackout-date policy, allowing them to use points even during popular travel times.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for the annual "Plus Your Points" promotion, which typically runs in the spring. It allows members to earn double points and complete simple tasks (like a weekend rental or adding a satellite radio) for thousands of bonus points, rapidly accelerating your path to a free rental.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Flexible redemptions with no blackout dates | Point redemption costs can fluctuate with demand |
Massive network of neighborhood locations | Must book direct; third-party bookings don't earn points |
Points are easy to understand (dollar-based) | Base-level members don't get many perks |
Points don't expire as long as you rent once every 3 years | Upgrades for elites are not guaranteed, but are coupons |
4. Hertz – Gold Plus Rewards
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is one of the most recognized loyalty programs, appealing to a broad audience with its extensive global footprint and straightforward points-based system. The program is free to join and focuses on providing members with a faster rental experience by allowing them to skip the counter at many major airport locations. Members simply find their name on the board, locate their car, and drive to the exit gate.
This program is a solid choice for travelers who value a large network and a simple earning structure based on dollars spent rather than rental frequency. Its benefits are especially useful for both occasional leisure travelers and frequent business flyers who rent from a wide variety of locations. For those weighing different points-based systems, a comprehensive review of car rental services can provide additional context.
How Gold Plus Rewards Works
The program is built around earning and redeeming points, with elite status providing accelerated rewards and better perks.
Earning: Members earn 1 point for every qualifying U.S. dollar spent on the base rental rate and other eligible charges.
Redeeming: Points can be redeemed for free rental days, with the number of points required varying based on the car class, location, and rental dates. Redemptions start at 950 points for a free day.
Elite Tiers: Frequent renters can achieve Five Star status (after 10 rentals or $2,000 in spending) or President’s Circle (after 15 rentals or $3,000 in spending). These tiers offer bonus points, car-class upgrades, and a wider selection of vehicles.
Who It's Best For
Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is a versatile program that suits many types of renters. It's particularly good for travelers who rent in the US and internationally due to Hertz's large network. Business travelers appreciate the counter-skip service, while families and leisure travelers can benefit from the points system, which rewards longer, more expensive rentals. Its partnerships with premium credit cards also make it easy for many to gain instant elite status.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on your account activity. Hertz points are forfeited after 12 months of no rental activity. A single rental within a year is all it takes to keep your points active and avoid losing your hard-earned rewards.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Large US and global footprint | Points forfeited after 12 months of inactivity |
Counter-skip service at many airports | Redemption availability can vary by location and date |
Points earned per dollar spent, good for long rentals | Counter-skip and elite benefits are not at all locations |
Frequent promotions and member discounts | Points expire five years after being earned |
5. Avis – Avis Preferred
Avis Preferred is a points-based loyalty program designed for renters who value consistency, clear rewards, and expedited service. Members can bypass the counter at many major locations, heading straight to their pre-assigned vehicle, making for a swift and predictable rental experience. The program is free to join and appeals to travelers who appreciate a transparent system for earning and redeeming free rental days.
Its strength lies in its straightforward points structure, where rewards are tied directly to spending on both the rental and optional add-ons. This makes it one of the best rental car loyalty programs for those who frequently book extras like satellite radio or GPS and want to be rewarded for their total purchase.
How Avis Preferred Works
The program rewards members with points for every dollar spent, which can then be redeemed for free days based on a clear reward chart.
Earning: Members earn a minimum of 100 points per rental. The standard earning rate is 1 point per dollar spent on the rental and 2 points per dollar on accessories.
Redeeming: Free rental days start at 700 points for a Level 1 reward, which covers a base daily rate of up to $50. The points required increase with the car's daily rate, with higher levels for more expensive rentals.
Elite Tiers: Avis Preferred Plus (10 rentals or $4,000 spend) and President’s Club (20 rentals or $6,000 spend) offer higher earning rates (1.25x and 1.5x points, respectively) and complimentary single-class car upgrades.
Who It's Best For
Avis Preferred is a great fit for brand-loyal renters who want a simple, spend-based program. It’s particularly beneficial for business travelers and vacationers who can leverage the skip-the-counter service at major airports. Families and international tourists who add accessories like car seats or navigation will also see their points accumulate faster due to the 2x earning rate on extras.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on your account for targeted promotions. Avis often sends offers for bonus points on specific rentals, which can significantly accelerate your progress toward a free day.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Clear points-based earning structure | Points needed for free days can be high in peak season |
Earn bonus points on accessories | Top-tier status requires significant annual spend |
Consistent skip-the-line service | Base-level members are not guaranteed upgrades |
Easy online account management | Points expire after 24 months of inactivity |
6. SIXT – SIXT ONE Rewards Program
SIXT is known for its premium fleet and modern, tech-forward approach, and its SIXT ONE Rewards Program reflects that brand identity. The program is designed for travelers who appreciate a digital-first experience and access to a higher-end selection of vehicles, often from German manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. SIXT ONE is free to join and operates through its mobile app, which is central to managing rentals and rewards.
This focus on a seamless app experience, combined with a premium fleet, makes it one of the best rental car loyalty programs for tech-savvy renters and those wanting a bit of luxury. The program's dual-point structure also provides flexibility, allowing members to climb status tiers while separately earning points to discount future rentals.
How SIXT ONE Works
The program uses a dual system for points, separating status from redeemable rewards. This allows members to enjoy elite perks while saving their redeemable points for a rental they choose.
Earning: Members earn status points to achieve elite tiers (Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond). Separately, you earn rental points based on your spending, which can be redeemed for discounts. Point values are often based in euros, so conversion rates may apply.
Redeeming: Rental points can be applied directly during the booking process through the app or website to reduce the cost of your rental. There are no blackout dates, providing great flexibility.
Elite Tiers: Higher status levels unlock benefits like discounts on rentals (up to 20%), complimentary upgrades, and priority service.
Who It's Best For
SIXT ONE is ideal for international travelers and those who prefer a premium vehicle and a digital, app-based rental process. Its expanding U.S. presence makes it increasingly relevant for domestic business and leisure travelers, especially in major airport locations. It's less suited for renters seeking the widest availability in smaller, regional towns.
Pro Tip: Use the SIXT app to select your exact vehicle from the available fleet 30 minutes before pickup at participating locations. This feature gives you ultimate control over what you drive, similar to programs like National's Emerald Aisle but with a specific car selection.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Modern, app-first experience | Counter-skip and choice features only at select branches |
Excellent selection of premium and luxury vehicles | Point values are often based in euros, adding complexity |
Dual system for status and redeemable points | Smaller U.S. footprint compared to major competitors |
Points can be redeemed with no blackout dates | Status points expire after 12 months |
7. Dollar – Dollar Express Rewards
Dollar Express Rewards is designed for the budget-conscious traveler who values simplicity and straightforward rewards. As one of the best rental car loyalty programs for those who prioritize cost savings, its appeal lies in a no-frills, points-based system. Members can skip the counter at many locations and add a spouse or domestic partner as a driver for free, adding significant convenience and value to their rentals.
The program's transparency is a major plus. Instead of complex earning structures, members know exactly what they need for a free day, making it easy to plan and redeem rewards. It’s an excellent choice for families and leisure travelers renting in the U.S. and Canada who want a hassle-free way to earn free rental days without needing elite status.
How Dollar Express Rewards Works
The program operates on a simple dollar-to-point system, making it easy to track progress toward your next reward. The redemption chart is published and clear, so you always know how many points you need.
Earning: You earn one point for every qualifying U.S. dollar spent on your rental.
Redeeming: Free rentals have fixed point values. A free weekend day starts at 500 points, a weekday at 625 points, and a full week at 2,550 points.
Alternative Rewards: Members have the flexibility to earn frequent flyer miles with partner airlines or points with select hotel programs instead of Dollar points.
Who It's Best For
Dollar Express Rewards is ideal for infrequent renters or those loyal to budget-friendly brands. Families benefit greatly from the free additional driver perk, which can save a significant amount on a multi-day rental. It’s a strong contender for anyone whose travel is primarily within the U.S. and Canada and who prefers a simple "earn-and-burn" rewards program without complex tier requirements.
Pro Tip: Always check the program’s blackout dates before planning a trip where you intend to use points. These often fall on major holidays and can impact your redemption plans.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Simple points-per-dollar earning | Redemption blackout dates apply on major holidays |
Free spouse/domestic partner driver | Earning and redeeming is limited to U.S. and Canada |
Clear and transparent redemption chart | Fewer elite-style perks like upgrades or priority service |
Skip-the-counter service | Points can expire if there's no activity in 24 months |
Website: https://www.dollar.com
Top 7 Rental Car Loyalty Programs Comparison
Service | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cars4Go Rent A Car | Low — simple signup and booking with online/in-person modifications | Minimal — debit/credit accepted; location-based availability | Transparent pricing, door‑to‑door delivery, unlimited Florida miles and included extras | Leisure travelers, families, Florida visitors and short‑term local rentals | No hidden‑fee promise, delivery/pickup, complimentary second driver, child seats, bilingual support |
National Car Rental – Emerald Club | Low — free to join, straightforward credit accrual | Frequent short rentals to earn credits faster | Faster airport exits, choice from Emerald Aisle, free rental days from credits | Frequent business/airport travelers who value speed and vehicle choice | Skip‑the‑counter, Emerald Aisle vehicle selection, tiered guaranteed benefits |
Enterprise – Enterprise Plus | Low–Medium — must book direct to earn reliably | Spend on direct bookings; use of app/online | Points tied to dollars, flexible redemptions, broad location availability | Renters using neighborhood locations and airports who want predictable earnings | No blackout dates, nationwide presence, frequent promotions to boost earnings |
Hertz – Gold Plus Rewards | Low — easy enrollment; some benefits vary by branch | Regular rentals to maintain activity and avoid expiry | Counter‑skip pickup, points per dollar, elite tier upgrade potential | Frequent airport renters seeking speed and upgrade odds | Large footprint, fast pickup options, tiered earning and member promotions |
Avis – Avis Preferred | Low — simple to join and use; clear charts | Rental spend and accessories to accumulate points and status | Transparent redemption levels, expedited service, elite upgrade priority | Renters who want predictable reward costs and reliable expedited service | Clear earning/redemption chart, consistent skip‑the‑line service, elite support |
SIXT – SIXT ONE Rewards Program | Low–Medium — app‑first workflow and digital check‑in | App usage; possible premium spend; some currency/booking complexity | App‑based skip‑the‑counter, dual points (status + rental) and premium options | Premium or tech‑savvy renters who want upscale vehicles and mobile convenience | Modern app experience, separate status & redeemable points, strong premium fleet |
Dollar – Dollar Express Rewards | Very low — simple enrollment and transparent chart | Rentals in US/Canada; limited elite perks | Quick redemptions for weekend/short rentals, basic skip‑the‑counter | Budget‑minded travelers and families on short trips | Transparent points chart, family‑friendly free spouse/partner driver (select locations) |
Choosing the Right Program for Your Driving Needs
Navigating the landscape of rental car loyalty programs can feel complex, but the right choice boils down to a simple question: what do you value most in your travels? As we've explored, the best rental car loyalty programs aren't one-size-fits-all. They are tailored to different types of travelers, from the road warrior crisscrossing the country for business to the family embarking on an annual Florida vacation.
Your final decision should be a direct reflection of your personal travel patterns. By taking a moment to assess your needs, you can transform your rental experience from a simple transaction into a rewarding journey.
Key Takeaways for Selecting Your Program
To simplify your choice, let's recap the core strengths of each program we've covered:
For the Ultimate Efficiency Seeker: If your priority is to bypass the counter and get on the road as quickly as possible, National's Emerald Club is the undisputed champion. Its "Aisle" service is a game-changer for frequent business travelers.
For the Value-Conscious Traveler: Enterprise Plus shines with its straightforward points system and the valuable perk of no blackout dates on redemptions, making it a reliable choice for flexible travel planning.
For the Global Explorer: With a massive worldwide footprint and extensive elite status benefits, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards offers consistent service and valuable upgrades for those who frequently travel internationally.
For the Local and Regional Specialist: For travelers focused on the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas, Cars4Go Rent A Car provides a compelling, locally-focused alternative. Its simple points program is enhanced by customer-centric perks like a free second driver and unlimited mileage within Florida, making it ideal for families and leisure visitors.
Making Your Decision: An Action Plan
Before you book your next rental, follow these simple steps to ensure you’re maximizing your rewards:
Review Your Past Rentals: Look at your travel history from the last 12-24 months. Where did you go? Which companies did you use? How often did you rent? This data is your best guide.
Identify Your Priorities: Are you looking for free rental days, vehicle upgrades, or the ability to skip the line? Rank these benefits in order of importance to you.
Sign Up for Free: All the programs we've discussed are free to join. Sign up for your top two or three choices. There's no cost, and this ensures you're always earning points, no matter who you rent from.
Consider Your Destination: If your travel is concentrated in a specific region, like South Florida, a specialized program like Cars4Go might offer more practical and immediate value than a larger national chain.
Ultimately, the goal is to make your travel budget stretch further while making the journey smoother. The few minutes it takes to enroll in a loyalty program can pay significant dividends in savings, convenience, and comfort down the road. Choose the program that aligns with your unique driving needs and start turning your miles into meaningful rewards today.
Ready to experience a loyalty program designed with Florida travelers in mind? The Cars4Go Rent A Car points program offers a simple, rewarding way to earn free rentals while enjoying perks like a free second driver and unlimited mileage. Join for free today and make your next Miami or Fort Lauderdale trip more rewarding.
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