budget Car Rental in Berkeley*

Discover more about the Car Rental Company Budget in Berkeley

Budget Rent a Car, a renowned American car rental company, was established in 1958 in Los Angeles, California. Founded by Morris Mirkin, Budget has since grown into a global brand, known for its affordable and reliable car rental services. Today, Budget operates as a subsidiary of the Avis Budget Group, with its main operations based in Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey.

History and Growth

Starting with a humble fleet of 10 cars, Budget lived up to its name by offering competitive daily and per-mile rental rates. In 1959, Julius Lederer joined the company, contributing significantly to its growth and international expansion. The company's headquarters moved to Chicago, Illinois in 1960, and the rental fleet expanded through a mix of franchised and wholly owned outlets.

Over the years, Budget underwent several ownership changes. It was first acquired by Transamerica Corporation, then sold in a leveraged buyout in 1986. The company went public in 1987. In 1997, Team Rental Group purchased Budget and adopted its name. In 2002, the company's assets were sold to Cendant Corporation, which also owned Avis. In 2006, Cendant, then composed solely of its vehicle rental services businesses, renamed itself Avis Budget Group.

Global Presence

Budget has a significant global presence with approximately 800 rental car locations in the U.S., of which 600 are company-operated and 200 are licensee locations. Internationally, there are 150 company-operated locations and 1,800 licensees, making Budget a convenient choice for travelers around the world.

Why Choose Budget?

Budget Rent a Car is committed to providing customers with affordable, reliable, and convenient car rental services. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from and a presence in numerous locations worldwide, Budget is a trusted choice for travelers seeking value and convenience. Whether you're planning a road trip, a business trip, or a family vacation, Budget has the perfect vehicle to meet your needs and make your journey memorable.

Please note that the information provided here may vary based on the specific policies of the rental company or the country in which the rental is taking place. It is always a good idea to double-check the most current information directly on the company's website to ensure accuracy and avoid any potential misunderstandings or issues.

Insurance Coverage

Budget Rent a Car provides a variety of protection plans for your rental vehicle, ensuring your peace of mind during your travels. These plans are designed to shield you in the event of an accident, injury, damage, or theft. Here's a brief summary of the insurance options available:

• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW): This option absolves you of financial liability if your rental car suffers damage or theft. It's available for as low as $9 a day.
• Personal Accident and Effects (PAE): PAE offers protection for you and your passengers against accident, injury, and personal property loss.
• Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI): SLI provides protection for you and all authorized drivers against third-party injury and property damage claims. It's available for around $15 a day.
• Emergency Sickness Plan (ESP): ESP offers coverage for medical expenses resulting from sickness for international renters visiting the U.S.

Selecting the appropriate rental car insurance ensures that you're protected, regardless of what situations arise on the road. With Budget's extensive insurance plans, you can embark on your journey with the confidence that you're well protected.

Rental Policies

Budget Rent a Car has established several policies to ensure a pleasant and safe rental experience for all customers. Here's a brief overview of these policies:

• Smoke-Free Fleet: In response to customer feedback, Budget maintains a 100% smoke-free fleet in the U.S. and Canada. All types of smoking, including pipes, cigarettes, and cigars, are prohibited in Budget vehicles.
• Cross Border Rentals: Renting a car for interstate travel is generally allowed, but it's always best to inquire about any restrictions or fees that may apply for one-way rentals or when dropping the car at a different location. Certain cars may be rented from the United States and driven into Canada or Mexico by U.S. residents, with advance arrangement and consent from Budget.
• Driving Test Rentals: If you do not have a current license, you are not permitted to rent a Budget car for your driving test.
• One-Way Rentals: You have the option to rent one-way and return your rental to a different location from where you picked it up. Please enter your preferred pickup and drop-off locations when you book online to check availability.
• Rental Car Return: In most cases, you can simply return your Budget rental car to the drop-off location at the end of your rental period. For additional details, please read Budget's rental car return rules.

These policies are designed to ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience for all Budget customers.

Loyalty Program: Budget Fastbreak

Budget Fastbreak is a car rental membership program designed for a quick and easy rental experience. By joining this free program, members can bypass long lines at the counter, simply showing their valid license and picking up their keys. Returning the car is just as straightforward - drop the car in the designated area and go, with the receipt emailed to you.

Fastbreak members also receive exclusive deals from Budget, saving both time and money. The program includes Fastbreak Choice, an expedited pickup process available at select locations. This feature allows members to select their vehicle directly from their mobile device, further speeding up the rental process.