Originally Posted by
Mountain Trader
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.
Just my thoughts on why they require a physical inspection (could be 100% wrong): Assume your name is John Smith. You could have another (stolen/otherwise not valid) credit card with the name of James Smith, John Smith Jr., etc. Most credit card verification online (that I'm aware of) only matched the last name & zip code. Avis might want to be sure the card actually says John Smith.
Otherwise, you could steal the rented car, they charge the card of James Smith and then James correctly disputes the charge. Avis is out the $60,000 QX56 that they "rented you".
While Avis & Budget are both owned by the AvisBudget group, they don't share back-end systems. Same thing as others: Zappos.com is owned by Amazon but they don't share credit card information.