Finding the right hertz reservations phone number should be simple. You’d think a massive company would have one giant, glowing button on their site that just says "Call Us," right? Honestly, it’s rarely that straightforward. Depending on whether you're trying to book a weekend getaway in Florida, a business trip in London, or you're a Gold Plus Rewards member who needs a specialized desk, the number you actually need changes.
I’ve spent years navigating the travel industry, and if there is one thing I’ve learned, it’s that calling the wrong department is a fast track to being on hold for forty minutes only to be told you need to redial.
Let's cut through the noise.
The Numbers You Actually Need
If you are in the United States or Canada and just want to book a car for a future trip, the primary hertz reservations phone number is 1-800-654-3131. This is the standard line for domestic bookings.
Now, if your eyes are set on a trip across the pond or down to South America, you can’t use that domestic line. You’ll need the International Reservations desk at 1-800-654-3001.
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Special Status and Business Lines
Are you a frequent flyer with a specific status? Things change here.
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards Members: You generally have a dedicated line for faster service. If you're a Five Star member, the number is 1-888-999-4900.
- President’s Circle: This is the top tier, and it comes with the most direct access at 1-888-444-8600.
- Hertz Business Rewards: If you’re booking for a company or have a small business account, call 1-888-777-3807.
It's kinda funny how many people ignore these specific lines. If you have the status, use it. The wait times are significantly shorter, and the agents often have more leeway to fix issues that the general reservation agents can’t touch.
When the Reservation is Already Active
There is a huge difference between making a reservation and managing one while you’re standing at the curb with three suitcases and a crying toddler.
If you are currently in a rental and something goes wrong, do not call the reservation line. They can't help you with a flat tire or a smoking engine. You need Emergency Roadside Assistance at 1-800-654-5060.
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If you just need to extend your current rental by a day or two, there’s a specific "Car in the Shop" or extension line at 1-800-704-4473.
Why People Get Frustrated
Most of the complaints I see online regarding Hertz customer service stem from one thing: the automated IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system. It’s the robot voice that asks you to "say in a few words why you’re calling."
Pro tip: Just keep saying "agent" or "representative." It feels silly, but it’s the most consistent way to bypass the three-minute loop of the robot trying to get you to use the website.
Navigating International Bookings
If you are calling from outside the U.S. to make a reservation within the states, the numbers listed above might not work or could cost you a fortune in international roaming fees.
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Every country has its own local Hertz office. For example, in the UK, you’d typically look for a 0843 or 020 number. Always check the local "hertz.co.uk" or "hertz.de" sites for those localized numbers.
The "Hidden" Fees You Should Ask About
When you finally get an agent on the hertz reservations phone number, don't just give them your credit card and hang up. There are nuances to rental contracts that are much easier to clarify over the phone than through a tiny checkbox on a mobile app.
- Young Renter Fees: If you’re under 25, ask specifically about the "Under 25 Surcharge." It can be $20 to $50 per day.
- One-Way Drop Fees: If you’re picking up at LAX and dropping off in San Francisco, that "drop fee" can sometimes be more expensive than the actual rental. Ask the agent to break down the total including that specific fee.
- Insurance Overlap: Don't let them upsell you on Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) if your credit card already covers it. Many premium travel cards (like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Amex Platinum) provide primary coverage. Ask the agent if they can make a note that you are declining their insurance so you don't get pressured at the counter.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Booking
Don't just dial and hope for the best.
- Check your status first. Log into your Gold Plus account to see if you qualify for the Five Star or President's Circle lines.
- Have your CDP (Corporate Discount Program) number ready. If your employer has a deal with Hertz, that number is the only way the agent can find those specific rates.
- Record the confirmation number. Even though they’ll email it to you, systems glitch. Write it down.
- Ask for the "Total with Taxes." The base rate is a lie. The airport fees, tourism surcharges, and vehicle licensing fees can add 30% to your bill. Ask the agent for the final, out-of-the-door price.
If you’re stuck or the phone lines are jammed—which happens a lot during peak holiday seasons—try reaching out via their social media teams on X (formerly Twitter). They are surprisingly responsive and can often handle reservation modifications without the hold music.