Renting a car at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) offers you the freedom to explore New Mexico at your own pace. However, understanding the rental requirements and payment policies beforehand can significantly streamline your experience. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what you need to know to ensure a hassle-free car rental process at Albuquerque Airport.
Essential Renter Requirements at Albuquerque Airport
To rent a vehicle from Albuquerque Airport Car Rental services, you must meet certain criteria. These requirements are in place to ensure the safety and security of both the renter and the rental company’s vehicle.
Age Restrictions and Young Driver Surcharges
The minimum age to rent a car at Albuquerque Airport is 21 years old. Renters aged 21 to 24 are permitted to rent a variety of vehicle classes, ranging from economy cars to full-size sedans, including cargo and minivans, pickup trucks, and compact to standard SUVs with seating for up to five passengers. It’s important to note that renters in this age bracket will incur an underage surcharge of $25 per day. This fee is standard practice and helps cover the potentially higher risk associated with younger drivers.
Driver’s License and Identification
All renters and any additional drivers must possess a valid driver’s license. Learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted. The driver’s license must be in the renter’s name, and for debit card users at airport locations, the address on the license must match their current home address. An exception is made for active-duty military personnel regarding the address matching requirement. Besides the primary renter, only a spouse or domestic partner is permitted as an additional driver.
Debit Card Usage at Albuquerque Airport Car Rental
Using a debit card for your Albuquerque airport car rental is possible under specific conditions. At airport rental locations, debit cards are accepted at the time of rental only if you can present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This policy is crucial for renters planning to use a debit card for payment.
Alt: Albuquerque Airport car rental facility exterior showcasing car rental options.
When using a debit card, be aware that the funds available in your account will be reduced by the rental amount and any potential additional charges. Furthermore, renters are responsible for any overdraft fees that may be incurred due to these transactions. It’s advisable to ensure sufficient funds are available in your account to cover the estimated rental costs and any potential deposit.
Insurance Verification for Specific Vehicle Classes
For renters who do not have a ticketed return travel itinerary and intend to rent certain premium vehicle classes, insurance verification is mandatory. This applies to vehicle classes such as Full Size Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury Sedan, Midsize Sport Luxury Sedan, Electric Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury SUV, Extended Luxury SUV, Electric Luxury SUV, Limo Van, and Corvette. You must provide proof of a transferable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance policy at the time of rental. This requirement ensures adequate coverage for high-value vehicles.
Payment Policies for Albuquerque Airport Car Rentals
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is essential for a smooth transaction when picking up your rental car at Albuquerque Airport.
Accepted Forms of Payment
Albuquerque Airport car rental agencies typically accept a range of payment methods, including major credit cards and debit cards under certain conditions. The generally accepted forms of payment are:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
- Debit Cards (under specific conditions as mentioned above)
Money orders and prepaid cards are not accepted at the time of rental for either the rental payment or the deposit. Cash is also not accepted. However, money orders and prepaid cards might be acceptable for settling any outstanding amounts at the end of the rental period upon vehicle return.
Rental Charges and Modifications
The estimated total for your car rental, as displayed during the reservation process or in your email confirmation, will be charged to your chosen form of payment. If you modify your reservation, the estimated total may change, and the updated amount will still be charged to the original payment method. Upon rental, you will sign a rental contract that outlines the Rental Agreement Summary and Additional Terms and Conditions.
Deposit Requirements at Albuquerque Airport
To cover potential additional charges incurred during your rental, a deposit is often required. For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary, a standard deposit of $400 is typically required. However, for premium and luxury vehicle classes, the deposit amount increases to $850. These vehicle classes include Performance Sport, Full Size Luxury SUV, Electric Luxury SUV, Full Size Elite Electric Sedan, Midsize Sport Luxury Sedan, Full Size Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury Sedan, Electric Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury SUV, Extended Luxury SUV, Limo Van, and Corvette.
Alt: Credit card payment being processed at Albuquerque Airport car rental counter.
The deposit must be made using one of the accepted forms of payment listed earlier and will not be accessible to you during the rental period. The deposit is refunded after the vehicle is returned, provided there are no additional charges. Any extra charges incurred during the rental period can be deducted from the deposit. If not deducted from the deposit, these charges will be billed to the payment method provided at the time of rental, unless an alternative accepted payment method is provided.
Additional Payment Information
It’s crucial to understand that if you use a debit card for any payments, including the deposit or rental charges, the funds will be immediately held or debited from your account. Be mindful of potential overdraft fees if your account balance is insufficient.
In addition to the primary payment methods, credit cards with sufficient credit listed on your renter profile or loyalty accounts (like Emerald Club or E Club) can be used for all rental charges. All charges will be processed as authorizations against your credit or debit card and subsequently charged.
For detailed information regarding debit card usage and general rental requirements, refer to the Renter Requirements policy. By understanding these policies, you can ensure a smooth and efficient car rental experience at Albuquerque Airport, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip to New Mexico.
