Travel cards that grant rental car elite status
Several travel credit cards include complimentary elite status with rental car companies such as Avis, Hertz and National. Depending on the card and program, cardholders can receive perks like bypassing the counter, choosing from more vehicles, upgrades and bonus points. The article outlines which cards provide status and whether enrollment is needed.
The listed cards pair annual fees from $395 to $895 with complimentary status at Avis, Hertz, or National. Amex Platinum and Business Platinum provide Avis Preferred Plus, Hertz President's Circle, and National Executive; Chase Sapphire Reserve provides Avis Preferred Plus and National Executive. Capital One Venture X gives Hertz President's Circle. Citi/AAdvantage Executive and United Club give Avis President's Club. Enrollment is required for each.
Avis Preferred Plus normally needs 10 rentals or $4,000 yearly spending. Benefits include counter bypass, one-class upgrade on midsize or larger when available, rental discount code, and bonus points. Capital One enrollees must sign up via Capital One; standard Hertz enrollment won't automatically recognize eligibility.
This may affect frequent travelers and cardholders most, as they could skip lines, access better vehicles, and earn extra points. Non-cardholders might see less availability of upgrades or preferred vehicles, though programs may manage inventory. Rental companies may deepen ties with card issuers, shaping loyalty and spending habits. The impact is likely modest, concentrated in travel convenience and credit-card value rather than broad societal change.