B2English

Renting a Car

These phrases will help you navigate the process of checking out, inspecting, and returning a rental vehicle clearly and professionally.

Key Phrases

Voice
Checking in · 2 ways to say it

Hi, I've got a reservation for a compact SUV under the name Miller.

neutral

Good afternoon. I have a vehicle reserved under the name Miller.

polite
Asking about insurance · 2 ways to say it

Do I really need the extra coverage if my credit card already covers rentals?

neutral

Could you explain what the collision damage waiver actually covers?

polite
Asking about fuel policy · 2 ways to say it

Do I just bring the car back with a full tank of gas, or do you fill it?

neutral

US English — 'gas'

Should I ensure it is returned with a full tank of petrol, or do you refill it?

polite

UK English — 'petrol'

Documenting damage · 2 ways to say it

We should probably document this long scratch on the hood before I drive off the lot.

neutral

US English — 'hood' and 'lot'

Could we please make a note of this long scratch on the bonnet before I leave?

polite

UK English — 'bonnet'

Asking about tolls

How does the toll pass work around here? Do I pay you guys or the state?

neutral
Upgrades · 2 ways to say it

Is there any chance of a complimentary upgrade, since I'm a loyalty member?

neutral

Would it be possible to upgrade to a slightly larger vehicle today?

polite
Adding a driver

Can I add my spouse as an additional driver, or is there an extra fee for that?

neutral
Returning the vehicle · 2 ways to say it

I'm just dropping off the car. Where should I leave the keys for the return?

neutral

I would like to return the vehicle. Do you need to inspect it first?

polite
Asking about trunk space · 2 ways to say it

Will this model have enough room in the trunk for three large suitcases?

neutral

US English — 'trunk'

Could you tell me if this model has enough space in the boot for three large suitcases?

polite

UK English — 'boot'

Practice Dialogue

Traveler
Hi, I've got a reservation for a compact SUV under the name Miller. The agent inside sent me out here.
Staff
Ah, yes, Mr. Miller. Here's your vehicle. Have a quick look around and let me know if everything seems alright.
Traveler
Well, we should probably document this long scratch on the hood before I drive off the lot.
Staff
Good catch. I'll add that to the digital report right now. Do you have any questions before you hit the road?
Traveler
Yes. Do I just bring the car back with a full tank of gas, or do you fill it?
Staff
You'll need to return it full to avoid our premium rate per gallon. Anything else?
Traveler
How does the toll pass work around here? Do I pay you guys or the state?
Staff
We handle it. The transponder will automatically charge the card you have on file.
Traveler
Okay, perfect. And do I really need the extra coverage if my credit card already covers rentals?
Staff
It's optional, but it means you wouldn't have to deal with your own insurance company if an incident occurred.
Traveler
I see. I'll just stick with my own coverage for now, thanks.

More Travel & Transport (B2)

← All English survival phrases