Yes, you can generally take a Hertz rental car to Canada, but it is not automatically permitted for every rental. You must get prior written authorization from Hertz and follow specific rules, which vary by the location where you pick up the vehicle. The process is designed to manage insurance, liability, and vehicle registration across the border.
The most critical step is to contact Hertz directly before your trip. This is not something you can decide at the counter. You'll need to call the Hertz location where you plan to pick up the car. They will check if your specific rental car class is approved for cross-border travel. Not all vehicles are allowed; typically, luxury cars, high-end SUVs, and certain specialty vehicles are prohibited.
You will be required to present specific documents at the border for both yourself and the vehicle. This includes the Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card (also known as a "yellow card"), which Hertz should provide upon authorization. You must also have the rental agreement showing explicit permission for travel in Canada.
Be aware of geographic restrictions. Even with permission, Hertz often restricts travel to certain Canadian provinces, excluding remote areas like the Yukon, Northwest Territories, or Nunavut. Always confirm the exact permitted areas.
Here is a summary of key considerations:
| Consideration | Details |
|---|
| Prior Authorization | Mandatory. Must be obtained by calling the rental location in advance. |
| Eligible Vehicle Classes | Typically economy, compact, intermediate, standard, and full-size vehicles. Luxury, premium, and SUVs are often excluded. |
| Required Documentation | Rental agreement with Canada travel endorsement, Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card ("yellow card"), driver's license, and passport. |
| Geographic Restrictions | Travel may be prohibited in certain territories (e.g., Yukon) or specific provinces. |
| Insurance Implications | Your Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) typically remain valid. Confirm if additional coverage is needed. |
| Additional Fees | A cross-border fee (approximately $50 - $100) usually applies per rental, not per day. |
| Drop-off in Canada | This is generally not allowed. The vehicle must be returned to the original rental location in the U.S. |
Finally, understand the insurance. Your existing coverages like Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS) usually extend to Canada. However, it's vital to confirm this with the Hertz agent to avoid any gaps in coverage. There is almost always a cross-border fee associated with this permission.
