Originally Posted by
IAHtraveler
If you cause any damage to the car (or steal it) they need to be able to charge whatever your card will hold to recoup their loss. If I were leaving a "stranger" with a $30,000-$60,000 vehicle, I'd require a photo ID and matching credit card verification too.
It's also possible to put in a credit card with a different name (Jr, different first name, etc) since not all fields are verified by the online processes.
I don't understand the distinction. Avis/Budget already has my driver's license-they had it when I used my old credit card, along with the expiration date.
That leaves the credit card and their ability to charge my card in the event of damage. I don't understand how that is different than any other purchase or authorization which is done over the internet. They know who I am, they know (or can verify) that it is my credit card, they check my ID at exit when I rent on Fast Break or Wizard. I must be missing something as I don't see what waiting at the counter and showing them the physical credit card adds to the equation.
Please feel free to educate me, as I am sure some will.