Understanding the Primary Renter Rule in Car Rentals
When you rent a car, the rental agreement involves specific individuals and their responsibilities. A core principle across most car rental companies, including those partnered with Costco Travel, is the designation of a primary renter. This individual is the one whose name appears first on the rental contract, who usually provides the primary form of payment, and who is legally responsible for the vehicle throughout the rental period. This person must typically be present at the rental counter during pickup, possess a valid driver's license, and meet the rental company's age and credit requirements.
The question of whether a Costco member can rent a car for someone else directly hinges on this primary renter stipulation. Costco Travel partners with major rental agencies like Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise to offer discounts and benefits to its members. While a Costco membership unlocks these potential savings, the actual rental transaction is conducted with the chosen car rental company, and their policies dictate the specifics of who can rent and drive the vehicle. Therefore, understanding the car rental agency's rules is paramount, rather than solely relying on Costco membership status.
At its heart, the rental agreement is a legal contract between the renter and the rental company. This contract requires the primary renter to be identified, qualified, and present to finalize the rental. This protects the rental company by ensuring accountability and verifying that the person taking possession of the vehicle meets all necessary criteria. Without the primary renter's verifiable presence and qualification, the rental agreement cannot be initiated, regardless of who is paying for it or who intends to drive it.
- The primary renter must be present at pickup with a valid license.
- Rental agencies, not Costco, set the primary renter policy.
- The primary renter is legally responsible for the vehicle.
- Payment is typically required from the primary renter.
This foundational rule sets the stage for how Costco memberships interact with car rental processes. While a Costco member can certainly leverage their membership to secure a rental, they must adhere to the car rental company's standard operating procedures. This means that if a Costco member wants to rent a car for someone else, that 'someone else' generally needs to be the primary renter, or the Costco member themselves must be the primary renter and then designate the other person as an authorized driver.
The primary renter is always the one whose name is on the contract.
What is a Primary Renter?
The primary renter is the individual listed first on the car rental agreement. This person assumes all legal responsibility for the rental car, including any damage, traffic violations, or late fees incurred. They are the main point of contact for the rental company and must meet all the qualifications set by the agency. This usually includes being of legal driving age (often 25, though exceptions exist), possessing a valid driver's license, and providing a credit card in their name for the security deposit and rental charges.
When booking through Costco Travel, the member booking the reservation is often designated as the primary renter by default, unless explicitly indicated otherwise during the booking process. However, even if the Costco member books it, if they are not the one picking up the car, they cannot simply hand over the keys to someone else. The rental company's representative will verify the identity and qualifications of the person picking up the vehicle, and this person must be the named primary renter.
This policy is not unique to Costco's partners; it's a standard industry practice designed to mitigate risk for the rental companies. They need to know who is driving their asset and who is accountable. Therefore, any attempt to circumvent this by having one person book and another pick up without proper designation will likely be unsuccessful.
Why is the Primary Renter Requirement in Place?
The requirement for a primary renter stems from several critical factors related to liability, insurance, and compliance. Firstly, the rental contract is a legally binding document. The rental company needs to have a single, identifiable individual who is legally responsible for the vehicle's condition and usage. This simplifies recourse in case of accidents, damage, theft, or other incidents.
Secondly, insurance plays a significant role. The primary renter's insurance, or the coverage provided by the rental company or a third party, is tied to their identity. While additional drivers can often be added, the base insurance and liability rest with the primary renter. Verifying the primary renter ensures that the appropriate insurance checks are performed.
Thirdly, age restrictions and licensing are crucial. Rental companies have specific minimum age requirements, often 25 years old, and require a valid, unexpired driver's license. By requiring the primary renter to be present and present their credentials, the company can confirm these essential qualifications are met. This prevents underage drivers or individuals without proper licensing from operating their vehicles.
Can a Costco Member Rent a Car for Someone Else to Drive?
The direct answer to whether a Costco member can rent a car solely for someone else to drive, with the Costco member not present or involved in the pickup, is generally no, under the standard interpretation of rental agreements.
Here's why: The car rental process requires the primary renter—the individual whose name is on the rental agreement—to be present at the rental counter when picking up the vehicle. This person must present their driver's license and a valid credit card in their name. Costco Travel, while providing access to discounted rates and benefits, acts as a booking agent. The actual rental transaction and vehicle handover are managed by the partner car rental company (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, etc.), and they enforce their own policies regarding rental pickup.
Therefore, if a Costco member wants to rent a car for a friend or family member, and that friend or family member will be the one picking up and driving the car, the friend or family member must meet the rental company's qualifications to be the primary renter. The Costco member can facilitate the booking and potentially secure a better rate, but they cannot assign their membership's booking to someone else to pick up the car without meeting the primary renter's requirements.
The person picking up the car must be the primary renter.
Scenario 1: Costco Member is the Primary Renter and Plans to Drive
This is the most straightforward scenario. The Costco member books the car, arrives at the rental counter with their valid driver's license and credit card, signs the contract, and takes possession of the vehicle. In this case, the Costco member is utilizing their membership to secure the rental for themselves, potentially adding other drivers (including the 'someone else') as authorized drivers later, subject to the rental company's rules and fees.
Scenario 2: Costco Member Books, 'Someone Else' is the Primary Renter
A Costco member can book a rental car for a friend or family member who *will* be the primary renter. In this situation, the Costco member uses their membership to find and book the rental. However, when the friend or family member goes to pick up the car, *they* must meet all the requirements to be the primary renter. This means they need their own valid driver's license, their own credit card (or other accepted payment method as per the rental company's policy), and must meet the age requirements. The Costco membership itself doesn't transfer the right to rent; it provides access to rates and potentially other perks.
Scenario 3: Costco Member Books, 'Someone Else' is Driving, and Costco Member is NOT Present
This is where the confusion often lies. If a Costco member books a car and then expects someone else (who is not the Costco member) to pick it up as the primary renter, this is permissible *only if* that 'someone else' meets all the primary renter requirements. The Costco member who made the booking cannot simply authorize the rental over the phone or via email for a different person to collect the car. The individual physically present at the counter must be the one verified as the primary renter, with their own credentials.
Scenario 4: Costco Member Books, 'Someone Else' is Driving, and Costco Member IS Present
If the Costco member intends to be the primary renter and is present at pickup with their valid license and credit card, they can indeed rent a car for another person to drive. In this case, the Costco member signs the rental agreement. They can then add the 'someone else' as an authorized additional driver. Most rental companies allow this, though there may be fees for additional drivers, and the primary renter remains ultimately responsible. This also means the 'someone else' must meet any requirements for additional drivers (e.g., valid license, age).
You can add authorized drivers, but the primary renter must be present.
Key Requirements for the Primary Renter
For any car rental, especially when booking through Costco Travel and its partners, the primary renter must satisfy several critical requirements. These are enforced by the rental car company, not Costco itself, and are designed to ensure accountability and compliance. Failing to meet these can result in the rental being denied, even if booked successfully.
The most fundamental requirement is a valid driver's license. This license must be current, unexpired, and issued in the name of the primary renter. International renters may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their foreign license, depending on the rental location and origin of their license. The rental company will verify the license at the counter during pickup.
Additionally, a major credit card in the primary renter's name is almost always mandatory. This card is used to authorize a security deposit, which covers potential damages, fuel charges, tolls, and other incidentals. Debit cards may be accepted by some companies but often come with stricter requirements, such as proof of return travel, a larger deposit, or a credit check. Cash is rarely accepted for the security deposit.
A valid credit card in the primary renter's name is essential.
Age Restrictions
Rental car companies have minimum age requirements, typically 25 years old, to rent a vehicle without incurring additional fees or restrictions. Renters between the ages of 21 and 24 are often subject to a 'young renter fee' and may have limitations on the types of vehicles they can rent. Some companies may not rent to drivers under 21 at all. Costco Travel's partners generally follow these industry standards. It's vital to check the specific age policies for the rental company you choose, as these can vary. If the 'someone else' you are renting for is under 25, factor in these potential surcharges and restrictions.
Valid Driver's License
As mentioned, a current, valid driver's license is non-negotiable. It must be in the primary renter's name and physically present at the time of pickup. Expired licenses, temporary licenses without proper validation, or learner's permits are usually not accepted. For renters whose licenses are not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required as a translation, alongside the original license. Some rental locations may have specific rules regarding foreign licenses, so it's wise to confirm this in advance if you are an international visitor or renting abroad.
Payment Method
The primary renter must provide a major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, etc.) in their own name. The rental company will place a hold on this card for a security deposit, the amount of which varies by company and vehicle type. This hold is separate from the rental charges and is released upon satisfactory return of the vehicle. If you're trying to rent a car for someone else and they are the primary renter, they must use their credit card. If you (the Costco member) are the primary renter, you must use your credit card, even if you intend for someone else to drive.
Some companies allow debit cards, but these often require the renter to pass a credit check at the counter and may involve a higher deposit. Always check the specific payment policies of Alamo, Avis, Budget, or Enterprise when booking through Costco Travel, as these policies can differ and are subject to change.
Proof of Return Travel (Sometimes Required for Debit Cards)
In cases where a debit card is used for payment, rental companies may require additional documentation to verify that the renter has a confirmed return travel plan. This is to ensure the renter has the means to pay for the full rental period and to deter potential fraud. This proof could include a round-trip flight itinerary or train tickets. If the 'someone else' you are renting for plans to use a debit card, ensure they are prepared for these potential extra verification steps.
Adding Additional Drivers: The Key to Letting Others Drive
If a Costco member is the primary renter and wishes to allow 'someone else' to drive the rental car, the solution is to add that person as an authorized additional driver. This is a standard option offered by all major car rental companies. The primary renter must be present at the rental counter, fulfill all primary renter obligations, and then request to add the other driver to the contract.
The additional driver must also meet certain criteria. Typically, they need to be of legal driving age (often 21 or older, sometimes 25 depending on the rental company and location) and possess a valid, unexpired driver's license. They will usually need to present their license at the counter when being added to the contract. While the primary renter's credit card covers the rental, the additional driver's credentials are also verified.
Always add all drivers to the rental agreement.
How to Add an Additional Driver
The process for adding an additional driver usually begins at the rental counter when the primary renter is picking up the vehicle. The primary renter should inform the rental agent that they wish to add another person to drive. Both individuals may need to be present, and the additional driver will need to present their driver's license for verification. The rental agent will then add their name to the rental agreement. Some rental companies might allow adding drivers mid-rental, but it's best to do it at pickup to ensure everything is correctly documented from the start.
Fees and Restrictions for Additional Drivers
Be aware that most car rental companies charge a daily fee for each additional driver. This fee varies by location and company, so it's important to inquire about it when adding the driver. For example, you might see fees ranging from $10 to $15 per day per driver, though this can fluctuate. Some rentals, like those booked through Costco Travel, might include one additional driver fee for certain rental partners (e.g., Avis), which can be a significant saving. Always check the terms and conditions specific to your Costco Travel booking, as these benefits can change.
In addition to fees, there can be restrictions. The additional driver must also meet the rental company's age requirements and possess a valid license. If the additional driver is under 25, they will likely incur the young renter fee as well, making the total cost higher. It's crucial to understand that even when an additional driver is added, the primary renter remains fully liable for the vehicle and any violations or damages that occur.
Benefits of Adding Drivers
Adding authorized drivers is not just about convenience; it's a matter of legal compliance and insurance coverage. Driving a rental car without being listed on the agreement can invalidate insurance coverage and lead to significant liability for both the driver and the primary renter. By formally adding drivers, you ensure that everyone who plans to operate the vehicle is properly identified and has met the rental company's basic requirements.
This also means that if an accident occurs, and the driver is listed on the contract, the rental company's insurance policies or any supplemental insurance purchased will likely apply. This provides a layer of protection that would be absent if an unauthorized driver were behind the wheel. Therefore, even if 'someone else' is only driving for a short period, it is always advisable to add them as an authorized driver.
Adding an authorized driver ensures compliance and coverage, but the primary renter always retains ultimate responsibility.
Costco Travel Car Rental Partners and Their Policies
Costco Travel partners with major car rental agencies to offer its members competitive rates and benefits. These partners typically include Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise. While Costco Travel negotiates beneficial terms, the operational policies, including those for primary renters and additional drivers, are set by these individual rental companies.
Understanding these partner policies is key to navigating the rental process successfully. For instance, Avis and Budget, often found through Costco Travel, have specific rules about who can rent and drive. Similarly, Alamo and Enterprise have their own sets of requirements. The Costco membership itself does not override these fundamental rental agreements.
Always verify partner policies via Costco Travel before booking.
Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise – What to Expect
Each of these rental companies has a standard procedure for primary renters and additional drivers. Generally, all require the primary renter to be present at pickup with a valid license and a major credit card. They will conduct a credit check and verify the driver's license. Additional drivers can typically be added, but often for a fee, unless a specific benefit (like one free additional driver from Costco Travel with certain bookings) applies.
The age requirements are also fairly consistent, with a standard age of 25 for unrestricted rental. Renters aged 21-24 usually pay a young driver surcharge. It is essential to check the specific terms and conditions for your chosen rental company on the Costco Travel website during the booking process, as these details are usually provided.
Leveraging Costco Member Benefits
Costco Travel often secures unique benefits for its members that can enhance the car rental experience. These might include:
- Discounted daily rates.
- Waived fees for one additional driver with certain partners (e.g., Avis and Budget often offer this benefit for Costco members). This means if the Costco member is the primary renter, they can add one other person to drive without incurring the typical daily fee for that person.
- Potential upgrades or special promotions.
These benefits are valuable but do not change the fundamental requirement for the primary renter to be present and qualified at pickup. The Costco membership facilitates access to these rates and benefits, but the rental transaction itself is between the primary renter and the car rental company.
How Costco Travel Clarifies Rental Terms
When you book through Costco Travel, the website provides detailed information about the rental company you've selected, including their specific policies regarding age, licenses, credit cards, and additional drivers. Before finalizing your booking, you are usually presented with a summary of these terms and conditions. It's critical to read this information carefully to understand any limitations or requirements that might affect your rental, especially if you plan for someone else to be the primary driver or if they are an additional driver.
If 'someone else' is intended to be the primary renter, they must meet all the qualifications independently. If the Costco member is the primary renter, they must be present, and then they can add 'someone else' as an authorized driver, potentially benefiting from a waived additional driver fee if applicable to their booking.
Can a Permit Driver Drive a Rental Car?
The question of whether a permit driver can drive a rental car is a crucial one, especially when considering who might be behind the wheel. The general rule across virtually all car rental companies is that a permit driver cannot drive a rental car. This is because rental agreements require the driver to possess a valid, full driver's license.
A learner's permit, also known as a provisional license in some regions, is not considered a full driver's license. It signifies that the holder is still in the process of learning to drive and must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at all times. Rental companies need assurance that the person operating their vehicle is fully qualified and legally permitted to do so independently.
A learner's permit is not sufficient for renting or driving a rental car.
Why Permits Are Not Accepted
Rental companies face significant liability risks. Allowing someone with only a learner's permit to drive their vehicles would exponentially increase these risks. A permit holder is not legally recognized as a fully qualified driver and often has specific restrictions on when and where they can drive. Furthermore, insurance policies, both those provided by the rental company and any personal insurance a renter might have, are typically predicated on the driver holding a valid, unrestricted license.
The primary renter must present a valid driver's license at the time of pickup. If this license is a permit or learner's permit, the rental will almost certainly be denied. This applies whether the permit holder is the primary renter or an additional driver. The requirement is for a license that permits unsupervised driving.
What About International Visitors?
For international visitors, the situation is slightly different but still requires a valid license. Visitors typically need to present their home country's driver's license. If this license is not in English, they will generally also need to provide an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a translation of the home country's license, not a license itself. It must be presented along with the original, valid driver's license from the visitor's home country.
Even with an IDP and a home country license, a permit issued by a local jurisdiction (like a US state permit) would still not be sufficient. The core principle remains: the driver must be fully licensed to operate a vehicle independently.
What If I Have a Temporary License?
Temporary licenses, which are sometimes issued while a permanent card is being processed, can be accepted by some rental companies, but this is often on a case-by-case basis and may depend on the issuing authority and the specific policies of the rental agency. The key is that the temporary license must clearly indicate full driving privileges and not be restricted like a learner's permit. It's always advisable to contact the rental company directly in advance to clarify their policy on temporary licenses.
In summary, if 'someone else' is being considered as a driver and only holds a permit, they will not be able to drive the rental car. The Costco member, if acting as the primary renter, would need to ensure any intended drivers hold full, valid licenses.
Can the Additional Driver Pick Up the Rental Car?
This question often arises when the Costco member who booked the rental is unable to be present at the pickup location. The short answer is generally no, an additional driver cannot pick up the rental car on behalf of the primary renter. The car rental agreement is a contract that requires the primary renter, as identified by their name, driver's license, and credit card, to be present and to formally take possession of the vehicle.
When a Costco member books a car, they are typically identified as the primary renter unless they specifically book it for another individual who will then become the primary renter. Regardless of who is designated as the primary renter, that specific individual must appear at the rental counter. They need to present their valid driver's license and a credit card in their name to complete the rental process.
The primary renter must always be present at pickup.
The Role of the Primary Renter at Pickup
The primary renter's presence at pickup is not merely a formality; it is a critical step in the rental process for several reasons. Firstly, it allows the rental company to verify the identity of the person taking responsibility for the vehicle. Secondly, it's where the driver's license is physically inspected, and the credit card is swiped or presented for the security deposit and rental charges. This is the point where the rental company confirms that the renter meets all their requirements.
If the Costco member booked the car and is the primary renter, they must be there. If they booked it for 'someone else' who is designated as the primary renter, then that 'someone else' must be there. An additional driver, by definition, is someone added to a contract already initiated by the primary renter. They do not have the authority to initiate or finalize the contract themselves.
What if the Primary Renter is Unavailable?
If the designated primary renter cannot be present at the scheduled pickup time, there are limited options:
- Reschedule Pickup: The primary renter might be able to contact the rental company or Costco Travel to see if the reservation can be extended or rescheduled. However, availability and pricing might change.
- Cancel and Rebook: If the primary renter absolutely cannot make it, the reservation might need to be canceled (subject to cancellation policies), and a new reservation made with the person who *can* be present as the primary renter.
- New Reservation with a New Primary Renter: The Costco member could book a new rental, but this time designating the person who *will* be present as the primary renter. In this case, that new primary renter must meet all the qualification criteria independently.
It is generally not possible for the primary renter to authorize an additional driver to pick up the car on their behalf, even with a power of attorney or a written note. The rental company's policy is strict on this to maintain security and accountability.
Can a Spouse or Partner Pick Up?
In most cases, even a spouse or partner cannot pick up the rental car unless they are also listed as the primary renter on the reservation and meet all the qualifications themselves. If the spouse or partner is intended to be an additional driver, they must wait for the primary renter to complete the pickup process and then be added to the contract. Some very specific, limited circumstances or corporate accounts might have exceptions, but for standard consumer rentals booked via Costco Travel, this is not the norm.
Costco Car Rental Discounts and Young Drivers
Costco members benefit from negotiated rates with major rental car companies, which can be particularly helpful when considering the often-high costs associated with young drivers. The standard age for renting a car without extra fees is 25. For drivers under 25, rental companies typically impose a 'young driver fee' or 'under 25 fee,' which can add a significant amount to the daily rental cost.
Understanding these fees and how Costco benefits might apply is crucial for budget-conscious renters. The primary renter must be at least 21 years old to rent from most of Costco's partners, though specific age requirements can vary by company and location. If the intended primary renter or additional driver is under 25, these fees are almost unavoidable unless a specific promotion or partnership waives them.
Young driver fees can substantially increase the total rental cost.
Understanding the Under 25 Fee
The fee for drivers under 25 is a daily charge levied by rental companies to offset the perceived higher risk associated with younger, less experienced drivers. This fee can range anywhere from $20 to $50 per day, per driver, depending on the rental company, location, and the specific vehicle rented. For a week-long rental, this can add upwards of $150-$350 or more to the total cost.
When booking through Costco Travel, the system usually displays the applicable young driver fees if the renter's age falls into this category. However, it's always wise to double-check the specific rental company's website for the most current fee structure, as these are set by the rental agencies themselves.
Does Costco Offer Military Discounts?
While Costco Travel offers excellent value through its negotiated rates, specific military discounts are not typically advertised as a standalone benefit for car rentals. However, the existing negotiated rates through Costco often provide savings that are comparable to or better than many standalone discounts. Additionally, some car rental companies may offer their own military discounts that could potentially be combined with Costco rates, although this is rare and requires specific inquiry with the rental agency.
It is always advisable for military personnel to check directly with the rental companies (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise) about any military appreciation programs they might offer. Sometimes, these benefits are applied at the counter, or they may require a specific booking code.
Does AAA Offer Car Rental Benefits?
Similar to military discounts, AAA (American Automobile Association) also offers its members car rental discounts and benefits, often with Avis and Budget. Costco members should compare the rates and benefits offered by Costco Travel directly against any discounts they might receive through AAA. In many cases, Costco Travel's negotiated rates are highly competitive, and sometimes they include added perks like a free additional driver, which might make them more advantageous than AAA discounts alone.
It's a good practice to check both sources if you are a member of both organizations and compare the final price and inclusions for your specific rental needs.
Which Rental Company Has the Lowest Young Driver Fee?
Determining which rental company has the absolute lowest young driver fee is difficult as it fluctuates based on location, demand, and the rental company's current pricing strategies. Historically, some companies might be known for slightly lower fees, but this is not a consistent guarantee. For instance, Enterprise and National (which is part of the same company) have sometimes been noted for having more flexible policies or lower surcharges for younger renters compared to others, but this can vary significantly.
Your best approach is to use Costco Travel to compare rates from all their partner companies for your desired dates and location. The system will typically show the base rate and any applicable surcharges, including young driver fees, if you input the correct age of the primary renter. This side-by-side comparison through Costco Travel is the most practical way to find the most economical option for your specific rental scenario.
Can You Rent a Car in Spain with a US License?
Yes, in most cases, you can rent a car in Spain with a valid US driver's license. However, it is highly recommended, and sometimes mandatory, to also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your US license. The IDP serves as an official translation of your license and is recognized by Spanish authorities and most rental companies.
While some rental companies might allow you to rent with just your US license, having the IDP is a safeguard against potential issues with local law enforcement or specific rental agency policies. You can obtain an IDP from organizations like AAA or the American Automobile Touring Alliance in the United States before your trip. Ensure your US license is current and unexpired.
Preventing Rental Issues: What to Check Before You Book
To avoid complications when renting a car through Costco Travel, especially when 'someone else' is involved, thorough preparation and checking are key. Understanding the core policies and your specific rental details can prevent frustrating situations at the rental counter or unexpected charges.
The primary rule to remember is that the person whose name is on the rental contract must be present at the rental counter with their valid driver's license and a major credit card in their name. If the Costco member is booking for someone else who will be the primary renter, that person must meet all requirements independently. If the Costco member is the primary renter, they must be present to pick up the car and can then add other drivers.
Always read the full terms and conditions for your rental booking.
Verify Primary Renter Requirements
Before booking, clearly decide who will be the primary renter. If it's the Costco member, ensure they are available for pickup. If it's 'someone else,' confirm that this individual meets all the criteria: sufficient age (typically 25, or 21-24 with young driver fees), a valid and unexpired driver's license (not a permit), and a major credit card in their own name. Costco Travel provides links or summaries of partner rental company policies; review these carefully.
Understand Additional Driver Policies and Fees
If the Costco member is the primary renter and wants to allow another person to drive, confirm the policy for additional drivers. Check if your Costco Travel booking includes a free additional driver (often with Avis and Budget), or what the daily fee will be. Ensure the intended additional driver also meets the age and licensing requirements. Remember, the primary renter remains liable for all actions of additional drivers.
Check Age Restrictions and Young Driver Fees
If any intended driver (primary or additional) is under 25, be prepared for young driver surcharges. Use the Costco Travel booking engine to input the correct age of the primary renter to see an estimate of these additional costs. Contacting the rental company directly might provide more precise information on these fees for your specific rental period and location.
Clarify Payment Methods
Confirm the acceptable payment methods for both the rental charges and the security deposit. While major credit cards are universally accepted, debit card policies can vary significantly. If a debit card is being used, be prepared for potential credit checks or requests for proof of return travel. Ensure the cardholder is the primary renter.
Review Cancellation and Modification Policies
Familiarize yourself with the cancellation and modification policies associated with your booking. If plans change, knowing these terms can save you from unexpected fees or the loss of your deposit. Costco Travel bookings often have specific conditions, so check these before confirming your reservation.
By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure a smoother car rental experience, whether you're using your Costco membership for yourself or facilitating a rental for a friend or family member.
Confirm the exact pickup location and hours of operation for the rental agency at your destination, as these can sometimes differ from airport terminal hours.