What is the difference/ advantage of having a wizard number and being an Avis Prefered customer?

A wizard number stores all your info (name, address, phone number, credit card number, ff number, etc) while a Preferred Membership means that when you get to an airport you just get on the bus, tell the driver your name, and he takes you straight to your car and your contract will be waiting in the car.

Definitely get preferred if you plan on renting from Avis (you can get it for free through their website).

Thanks Beckles. I would imagine that being a preferred guest also gives you the advantage of having a wizard number in addition to not waiting at airports etc.?

Flyaway, that's correct, when you fill out the Preferred Renter membership form, they'll give you a Wizard number.

The Wizard number is kind of like your FF number, while Preferred and Preferred Select are elite levels associated with that number.

To request an application for free Avis Preferred membership just fill out this form:

http://www.avis.com/programs_and_ser...r_request.html

And Avis will send you the application.

Thanks Beckles. I will apply on-line.


[This message has been edited by Flyaway (edited 09-08-1999).]

Thanks for the posting. I was planning to use AVIS next week and was wondering about Prefered status. I just filled out the application on line, signed & faxed it out! I also called to find out how long it takes to become activated and they said I could call early next week and get my number--so I will be all set when I pick up my car.
Thanks AVIS

I have used Avis for several years. I rent cars constantly from them. Sometimes I've rented two or even three cars in a single day (one at home, one at each of two cities where I had meetings) all domestic US.

Definitely get the wizard number/preferred. The car will be waiting for you, no need to sign a contract, just hop the bus/shuttle to the car lot (or walk in the few cases where the rental lot is inside the airport.)

When you return the car, they always print out a receipt, no need to go in anywhere. Very efficient, very smooth (except in SJC where I do not like their staff, not up to the normal Avis standards for some reason)

I have been very happy with Avis. When I have had problems, they've fixed them right away.
I recently called them and they sent me an Avis Preferred card (I learned about this program on this forum, where else?) and since then I get a free upgrade automatically to the next largest car. It's working out great.