The Us Car Program, officially known as the U.S. Government Rental Car Program, is designed to provide cost-effective and convenient car rental options for United States federal government employees and service members on official travel. This program, governed by the U.S. Government Rental Car Agreement, ensures that personnel can access reliable transportation while adhering to government travel regulations and budgets.
Key Benefits of the US Car Program
This program offers a range of significant benefits that streamline the rental process and provide peace of mind for government travelers.
Guaranteed Vehicle and Alternative Transport
One of the standout advantages of the US Car Program is the vehicle availability guarantee. If your reserved car class isn’t available upon arrival, rental companies are obligated to provide a vehicle of equal or higher class at no extra charge. Furthermore, in situations where a vehicle isn’t available within an hour of your arrival, the program ensures that the rental company will arrange and cover the cost of reasonable alternative transportation to your destination. This commitment extends to delivering a rental vehicle to you as soon as one becomes available, again at no additional cost. This benefit significantly reduces potential travel disruptions and ensures government employees can reach their destinations efficiently.
Flexible Rental Terms
The US Car Program offers exceptional flexibility with no blackout dates or minimum rental periods. This is particularly beneficial for government travel, which can often be unpredictable and subject to change. Additionally, unlimited mileage is included for most rentals (excluding one-way rentals), allowing travelers to focus on their official duties without worrying about mileage restrictions and extra fees. While rental rates are competitive and capped at established maximums, the program prioritizes value and convenience.
Cost Savings and Included Features
Beyond the base rental rates, the US Car Program provides considerable cost savings by eliminating many common surcharges.
No Additional Driver Fees
Government travelers can add authorized drivers to the rental agreement at no extra cost. This is particularly useful for team travel or when sharing driving responsibilities on long trips. Even drivers aged 21 and older are included under this waiver. For drivers aged 18-20, while an underage/young driver fee may be initially charged, it is reimbursable, ensuring that younger government employees on official duty are not penalized.
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage Included
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of the US Car Program is the automatic inclusion of insurance coverage. Travelers receive Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)/Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and liability insurance at no additional cost. The liability coverage is substantial, providing protection up to $25,000 for property damage, $100,000 per person, and $300,000 per incident for personal injury or wrongful death. Because of this comprehensive coverage, government travelers are explicitly instructed not to purchase additional liability, collision, damage, or any other supplemental insurance, leading to further cost savings and simplified rental agreements.
For more detailed information about the program, government employees and service members are encouraged to review the official U.S. Government Rental Car Agreement and the Rental Car fact sheet, both accessible in PDF format for comprehensive guidelines and regulations. Utilizing the US Car Program ensures government travel is efficient, economical, and well-protected.
