The U.S. Government Rental Car Program is designed to offer advantageous rates and exclusive benefits when federal employees and service members rent vehicles for official travel. This program encompasses cars, passenger vans, and SUVs from a range of approved rental car companies. Governed by the U.S. Government Rental Car Agreement #5, this initiative ensures government travelers receive optimal services and cost-effectiveness.
This agreement details several key benefits for those utilizing the Car Rental Program. A significant advantage is the vehicle class upgrade policy. If the reserved vehicle size or class is unavailable upon arrival, rental companies are obligated to provide a vehicle of equal or higher class at no additional charge. Furthermore, in situations where a vehicle is not available within one hour of arriving at the rental counter, the company must arrange and cover the cost of reasonable alternate transportation to the traveler’s destination. A rental vehicle will then be delivered to the traveler when available, again at no additional cost. The program also eliminates concerns about blackout dates or minimum rental periods, and it includes unlimited mileage for most rentals, excluding one-way rentals. While rates can fluctuate, they are capped at established maximum rates, ensuring cost control.
Another area of considerable benefit is the elimination of extra fees. The car rental program waives additional driver fees for authorized drivers, including those aged 21 and older. While drivers aged 18-20 may incur an underage/young driver fee, and must be listed on the rental agreement, this fee is reimbursable.
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of the U.S. Government Car Rental Program is the included insurance coverage. Travelers automatically receive Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)/Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Liability Insurance at no extra cost. The liability coverage provides substantial protection, with limits set at $25,000 for property damage, $100,000 per person, and $300,000 per incident for all persons involved. Due to this comprehensive coverage, government travelers are explicitly advised not to accept any additional liability, collision, damage, or other insurance offered by the rental companies, ensuring adherence to program guidelines and preventing unnecessary expenses.
For those seeking more comprehensive details, the Rental Car fact sheet provides further information about the program and its provisions.
