Said kiosk in ATL
Originally Posted by
Presguy
I tried the system for the first time today at ATL, after linking my Hertz and Clear accounts a few days ago. I chose a car from the 5* choice area, per the reservation, so I'm afraid I can't offer any commentary on how the system handles upgrades or other changes.
The Clear only "fast lane" is the one furthest to the left when exiting the ATL facility. When I pulled up, there were no cars ahead of me and three staff manning the booth - it looked like I had perhaps arrived while they were training on the system, as one of the other staffers was using my check out to teach the others about how the system worked.
Interestingly, the kiosk didn't appear to give me an option to check out using eye biometrics. Rather, the operator prompted me to use fingerprints from my left hand.
It recognized me on the first attempt, and asked only a single question on screen - to confirm that I had a valid drivers license. The attendant also asked if I wanted to add the fuel purchase option, which I declined. Within a second or two, the gate opened and I was sent on my way.
Two observations:
1) The system didn't generate a paper receipt or rental record of any sort. One was emailed to me within a minute or two. This might be concerning if you were pulled over, and you needed to produce a rental agreement/contract.
2) I'd make to a point to pull very close to the kiosk. From my car it was a very awkward reach to place my fingers on the scanner - I had to put the car in park, open the door a few inches, and lean. I'd be willing to bet that, within a few months, somebody slips up and runs a car either into the booth or the gate.
Overall, it works well and may save a few minutes if the exit lines are backed up, but it's nothing groundbreaking.
They must have activated the fingerprints recently, as they were not working last week. I do agree that the ergonomics should be improved. I was given a printed copy when I asked the attendant for one, as well as my favorite thing about the Hertz checkout process, i.e. a bottle of water.