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National Car Rental is a long-established U.S.-based rental brand with a strong airport presence and a focus on business and frequent travelers. Part of Enterprise Holdings, National operates a network of locations at many major airports and in select city neighborhoods, and tends to position itself toward customers who prioritize speed and convenience over rock-bottom rates. Its fleet ranges from compact economy cars to full-size sedans, SUVs and premium models able to serve short business trips or family vacations.

The company is best known for its Emerald Club loyalty program, which speeds pickup by letting members choose cars from designated lanes and skip the rental counter at participating locations. National also emphasizes digital tools — a mobile app for reservations, upgrades and roadside assistance — that aim to reduce friction from booking to return. You’ll often find promotional rates for advance purchases and corporate or partner discounts tied to airline and credit-card programs.

Expect a straightforward rental experience: online booking with optional add-ons such as GPS, child seats and insurance, standard airport pickup procedures, and flexible one-way and long-term rental options in many markets. Pricing varies widely by location and season; airport locations and peak-period reservations tend to be more expensive. If you travel frequently for work, prioritize quick airport turnaround and value a mid-range fleet, National is worth comparing against competitors for convenience and loyalty perks.

01

Airport convenience

Large presence at major airports reduces travel time between terminal and rental lot for most business and leisure travelers.

02

Emerald Club membership

The loyalty program speeds pickup, allows members to choose cars at participating locations, and rewards frequent renters with free rental days.

03

User-friendly digital tools

A mobile app and online management let you reserve, modify, and handle many rental steps without visiting the counter.

Fleet and locations

National maintains a mid-to-large fleet that typically includes economy and compact cars, mid-size and full-size sedans, SUVs, and select premium models; availability varies by location and season. The brand is most visible at airport counters across the United States and at many international airports and select city locations, so it’s often a practical choice for air travelers who need quick access to a rental vehicle upon arrival.

Booking, pickup and customer experience

Reservations are handled online or via the National mobile app, with optional add-ons such as GPS, child seats and insurance. At participating locations Emerald Club members can skip counters and pick cars from a dedicated aisle. Standard requirements include a valid driver’s license and payment method; policies for young renters, deposits and insurance coverage vary by country and rental rate, so check the confirmation and local terms before you travel.

Who it's best for

Frequent business travelers Airport arrivals who want fast pickup Renters who value loyalty perks over rock-bottom prices

Pros and Cons

PROS
  • Strong presence at major airports for convenient pickups and returns
  • Emerald Club loyalty program offers expedited service and potential free rental days
  • Broad fleet selection from compact cars to SUVs and premium options
  • Robust mobile app and digital check-in features to speed transactions
CONS
  • Airport rates and fees can be higher than off-airport alternatives
  • Additional charges (young-driver fees, insurance, fuel) can increase the final cost
  • Availability of specific makes/models and Emerald Aisle benefits varies by location

Frequently asked questions

How do I join the Emerald Club and what are the benefits?

You can enroll in the Emerald Club online for free. Benefits at participating locations include expedited pickup (skip the counter), the ability to choose a car from the Emerald Aisle, and earning credits toward free rental days; specific benefits depend on membership level and location.

What documents and payment are required at pickup?

You’ll typically need a valid driver’s license in your name and an acceptable form of payment (credit or debit card) in your name. Additional ID or proof of insurance may be requested depending on location; young drivers or international renters should check local requirements before arrival.

Can I cancel or modify a reservation?

Cancellation and modification policies depend on the rate you purchase. Many reservations allow free changes or cancellations up to a specified time before pickup (often 24–48 hours), but prepaid or discounted rates can be nonrefundable—review your confirmation for the exact terms.

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