Hertz lets you rent a car specifically to drive for Uber, with flexible terms and insurance built in

Hertz has a rental program designed for Uber drivers who don't own a car or need a temporary replacement. You rent directly from Hertz, not through Uber, and the rental agreement includes commercial insurance that covers you while you're logged into the Uber app. The weekly cost varies by location and car type, but Hertz handles the insurance piece that makes the arrangement legal — something you cannot do with a standard personal car rental.

This is different from renting a regular car from Hertz and then using it for Uber. That violates most personal rental agreements and leaves you uninsured during rides. The Hertz Uber program exists specifically to avoid that problem.

Key Takeaways

  • Hertz rents cars to Uber drivers with commercial insurance included in the weekly rate, which you cannot get with a standard personal rental.
  • You must have a valid driver's license, proof of income from Uber, and typically be at least 21 years old to rent through this program.
  • The rental cost is charged weekly and includes the car, insurance while you're driving for Uber, and roadside assistance.
  • You are responsible for gas, tolls, and routine maintenance during the rental period.
  • If the car breaks down or is damaged, Hertz handles repairs under the insurance; you typically pay a deductible if it's your fault.

What you need to rent a car from Hertz for Uber

Hertz requires a valid driver's license, a Social Security number, and proof that you drive for Uber. Proof usually means your Uber driver account or a recent earnings statement from the app. You'll also need a credit card to hold the rental deposit and cover any charges beyond the weekly rate.

Age requirements vary by location. Most Hertz locations require you to be at least 21, though some require 25. Call your local Hertz location or check their website for the specific requirement in your area. If you're under 25, you may pay an additional daily fee.

Hertz will run a background check and review your driving record. Serious violations, recent accidents, or insurance claims can disqualify you. The exact standards vary by location, so ask when you call.

How the weekly rental cost works

Hertz charges a flat weekly rate that includes the car, commercial liability insurance, and roadside assistance. The rate depends on the car type (economy, mid-size, SUV) and your location. Rates are not published online; you must contact Hertz directly or visit a location to get a quote.

The weekly charge is automatic — it renews each week unless you return the car. You pay by credit card. Some locations offer discounts if you commit to a longer rental period, such as a month or more.

The insurance included in the rental covers liability (damage you cause to other people or property) and collision (damage to the rental car itself). You typically pay a deductible if damage is your fault — often $1,000 to $2,500 depending on the location and car type. Hertz will explain the deductible amount before you sign.

What is and isn't covered by the rental insurance

The commercial insurance included in your Hertz rental covers you while you are logged into the Uber app and actively driving passengers or waiting for a ride request. It does not cover personal use — if you drive the car for yourself, you are not covered. This distinction matters because your personal auto insurance will not cover Uber driving, and the Hertz policy will not cover non-Uber use.

The policy covers liability and collision. It does not cover comprehensive damage — theft, vandalism, weather, or hitting an animal — unless you purchase additional coverage. Ask Hertz what comprehensive coverage costs when you rent. It is optional but worth considering if you park on the street or in high-theft areas.

If you are in an accident, report it to Hertz immediately. Do not admit fault or sign anything at the scene except the police report. Hertz will handle the claim with their insurance company. You will pay your deductible, and Hertz covers the rest.

Your responsibilities during the rental

You pay for all gas. You are responsible for routine maintenance — checking tire pressure, topping off windshield fluid, and reporting any warning lights to Hertz right away. If you ignore a maintenance issue and it causes damage, Hertz may charge you for the repair beyond the deductible.

You pay for tolls and parking tickets. If you rack up tolls or tickets, Hertz will add them to your final bill. Some cities allow you to dispute a ticket; Hertz will not do that for you.

You must return the car on time and in the same condition you received it, minus normal wear. Normal wear means small scratches, minor dents, and faded paint. Damage you caused — a cracked windshield, a dent from an accident, interior stains — is your responsibility up to the deductible amount.

What happens if the car breaks down or needs repair

If the car breaks down while you're driving, call Hertz roadside assistance immediately. The number is on your rental agreement and on the key tag. They will send a tow truck or arrange a repair. You do not pay for this — it is included in your rental.

If the repair takes more than a few hours, Hertz will provide a loaner car so you can keep driving for Uber. If the car is out of service for a full day or more, Hertz may credit you for that day's rental or provide a replacement car at no extra charge. Ask about their policy when you rent.

If you cause the breakdown — for example, you run out of gas or ignore a warning light — Hertz may charge you for the tow and repair. Read your rental agreement to understand what counts as your responsibility.

How to end the rental and what happens to your deposit

Return the car to the Hertz location where you rented it, during their business hours. Fill the gas tank before you return it; if you don't, Hertz will charge you for gas at a premium rate. Bring the keys and any paperwork you received.

Hertz will inspect the car for damage. If there are no issues beyond normal wear, you get your deposit back. If there is damage, Hertz will deduct your deductible from the deposit and send you an itemized receipt. This usually takes a few days to process.

If you want to end the rental early, you can. Hertz will prorate the weekly charge and refund the unused portion, minus any damage charges. Call Hertz to arrange an early return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the rental car for personal trips, or only for Uber?

You can use it for personal trips, but the insurance only covers you while you're logged into Uber. If you have an accident during personal use, the Hertz commercial policy will not cover it, and your personal auto insurance will not either because you're driving a rental. Stick to Uber driving to stay covered.

What if I get in an accident and it's the other driver's fault?

Report it to Hertz and the police immediately. Hertz will file a claim against the other driver's insurance. You may still owe your deductible upfront, but Hertz will pursue recovery from the other party's insurer. If they recover the full amount, Hertz may refund your deductible.

Can I rent a car from Hertz for Uber if I have bad credit?

Hertz does not typically run a credit check for this program, but they do require a credit card to hold the deposit. If you don't have a credit card, ask whether Hertz accepts a debit card in your area. Some locations do; others don't.

What if I want to keep the car longer than a week?

You can renew the rental week by week, or ask Hertz about a monthly rate when you rent. Monthly rates are usually cheaper per day than weekly rates. The renewal is automatic unless you tell Hertz you're returning the car, so make sure to cancel if you plan to stop driving.

Do I need my own insurance if I'm renting from Hertz for Uber?

No. The Hertz commercial policy covers you while you drive for Uber. You do not need personal auto insurance for the rental car. However, if you own a personal car and drive it for Uber sometimes, you would need rideshare insurance for that vehicle.