What Hertz offers through Uber's vehicle program
Hertz provides short-term car rentals specifically designed for Uber drivers who need a vehicle to work. You rent directly from Hertz locations, and the rental agreement is between you and Hertz—not through Uber itself. Hertz handles the vehicle, insurance, and maintenance during your rental period.
The arrangement exists because many Uber drivers do not own a car or need a temporary replacement while theirs is being repaired. Hertz has created rental packages with terms that fit driving work: daily rates, weekly rates, and the ability to rent for as short as one day. You pay Hertz for the rental and keep the money you earn from Uber rides.
Key Takeaways
- Hertz rentals for Uber drivers are arranged directly with Hertz, not through the Uber app, and you are responsible for all rental costs.
- You must have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card in your name to rent from Hertz.
- Rental rates vary by location and vehicle type, and you pay daily, weekly, or longer-term rates depending on how long you need the car.
- The vehicle must meet Uber's requirements: typically four doors, under a certain age, and in good mechanical condition.
- Hertz insurance covers the rental vehicle, but you are responsible for damage beyond normal wear and for any Uber-related incidents not covered by the rental agreement.
How to rent a vehicle from Hertz for Uber driving
Contact a Hertz location directly by phone or visit their website to ask about their Uber driver rental program. Not all Hertz locations offer this program, so confirm availability before you go. Tell them you are an Uber driver and ask what vehicles they have available and what the current rates are.
Bring your valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card in your name. Some locations may ask for proof that you are an active Uber driver—usually a screenshot from the Uber app showing your driver status. Hertz will run a background check and review your driving record as part of the rental process.
Once approved, you sign the rental agreement, pay the rental fee (usually upfront or at pickup), and receive the keys and vehicle. The rental period begins immediately. You are responsible for returning the vehicle in the same condition at the agreed-upon time and location.
What vehicles Hertz offers and what Uber requires
Hertz typically offers economy cars, sedans, and SUVs through their Uber driver program. The specific vehicles available depend on the location and current inventory. Uber has vehicle requirements that your rental must meet: the car must have four doors, be no more than a certain age (usually 15 years old or newer, though this varies by city), and pass a vehicle inspection.
Before you rent, check Uber's vehicle requirements for your city on the Uber driver app or website. Hertz staff can tell you whether a specific vehicle meets those requirements. If the rental car does not meet Uber's standards, you will not be able to use it for Uber rides, so confirm this before you commit to the rental.
Rental costs and what is included
Hertz rental rates for Uber drivers vary by location, vehicle type, and rental length. Daily rates are typically higher per day than weekly rates. You pay Hertz directly—this cost comes out of your pocket before you earn any money from Uber rides. There is no subsidy or discount from Uber itself.
The rental agreement usually includes the vehicle, basic insurance coverage through Hertz, and roadside assistance. Fuel is your responsibility—you return the vehicle with a full tank or pay Hertz for the fuel they add. Maintenance and repairs during the rental are covered by Hertz if they are not caused by misuse or accident.
You are responsible for any damage beyond normal wear and tear. If you are in an accident, Hertz insurance covers the vehicle, but you may have a deductible. Damage caused by your driving for Uber is still your financial responsibility under the rental agreement.
Insurance and liability when renting from Hertz
Hertz provides insurance on the rental vehicle itself. This covers damage to the car from accidents, theft, or weather. However, Hertz insurance does not cover liability for injuries to passengers or damage to other vehicles—that is where Uber's insurance comes in.
Uber provides liability coverage for rides you complete using the Uber app. This means if you cause an accident while a passenger is in the car and the ride is active on the Uber app, Uber's insurance covers the liability. If you are in an accident while the app is off or you are not carrying a passenger, Uber's coverage does not apply, and you rely on Hertz's insurance and your personal auto insurance (if you have it).
Before you rent, ask Hertz what their insurance covers and what your deductible is. Understand the difference between coverage for the vehicle itself and coverage for liability. If you have questions about how Uber's insurance works with a rental vehicle, contact Uber support through the driver app.
Requirements to rent from Hertz as an Uber driver
You must be at least 21 years old (some locations require 25) and have a valid driver's license. Hertz will check your driving record, so serious violations or multiple accidents may disqualify you. You need a credit card in your name to hold the rental and pay the fees.
You must be an active Uber driver. Hertz may ask for proof—usually a screenshot from your Uber driver app showing your account status. If you are new to Uber, you may need to complete Uber's driver onboarding process first before you can rent through this program.
Your driver's license must be valid for the entire rental period. If your license expires during the rental, you cannot legally drive, and Hertz may charge you additional fees or require you to end the rental early.
What happens if you damage the rental vehicle
Hertz insurance covers the vehicle, but you are responsible for the deductible—usually between $500 and $2,500 depending on the rental agreement and the damage. Minor damage like small dents or scratches may fall under normal wear and tear and not trigger a charge. Major damage, accidents, or mechanical damage caused by misuse will result in a claim against your deductible.
If you are in an accident while carrying an Uber passenger, report it to both Hertz and Uber immediately. Uber's insurance may cover liability, but the damage to the rental vehicle is handled through Hertz's insurance. You will likely owe the deductible to Hertz.
If you damage the vehicle and do not report it, Hertz will charge you when you return the car. Disputes over damage charges can delay your final bill and may affect your ability to rent from Hertz again in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent from Hertz if I do not have a credit card?
No. Hertz requires a credit card in your name to hold the reservation and process payment. A debit card is not accepted as a substitute. If you do not have a credit card, you will need to open one before you can rent.
What if I return the rental car late?
Hertz charges a late fee for each day or partial day the vehicle is returned after the agreed-upon time. The fee varies by location but is typically $25 to $50 per day. If you know you will be late, call Hertz as soon as possible to see if you can extend the rental and avoid the late fee.
Does Uber pay for the Hertz rental?
No. You pay Hertz directly for the rental. Uber does not subsidize or reimburse rental costs. The money you earn from Uber rides is yours to keep after you pay Hertz and cover fuel and other expenses.
Can I use the rental car for personal trips, not just Uber?
Yes, you can use the rental car for personal trips. However, your Hertz rental agreement is for a vehicle, not for Uber-specific use. If you use the car for personal trips and are in an accident, Hertz insurance covers the vehicle, but Uber's insurance does not apply because the app is not active. Make sure you understand what your personal liability coverage is in that situation.
What if the rental vehicle does not meet Uber's requirements?
Contact Hertz immediately and ask for a different vehicle that meets Uber's standards. If Hertz cannot provide one, you may be able to cancel the rental without penalty, depending on their policy. Do not rent a vehicle that does not meet Uber's requirements—you will not be able to use it for rides, and you will still owe Hertz for the rental.