How to Get a Free Rental Car Upgrade at the Counter

You get a free rental car upgrade at the counter by joining the rental company's loyalty program and using the upgrade benefit tied to your tier. A car-class upgrade means you receive the next larger vehicle category at no extra charge. That benefit varies by company and tier.

Some tiers include availability-based upgrades, while others tie the benefit to certificates or a minimum reserved class. Check your tier rules before you travel.

Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 05, 2026.

What do you need before you reach the counter?

Membership in the company's loyalty program is the starting point. Enrollment lets the counter apply the tier benefit linked to your reservation. Bring your membership number and book under the same name.

Availability still controls most free upgrades. Higher tiers improve access, but lot inventory decides what is parked and ready. A full lot during busy periods means fewer choices.

Which loyalty tiers include a counter upgrade?

Hertz states on its Gold Plus Rewards page that President's Circle members receive one car-class upgrade up to full-size class F, while Five Star upgrades depend on availability and Manager's Special rentals are excluded Hertz Gold Plus Rewards benefits. That limit matters when you reserve. A Manager's Special booking does not carry the same benefit.

National states on its Emerald Club page that members who reserve full-size through luxury in the U.S. and Canada receive an upgrade, with a one-class upgrade subject to availability in the UK, Ireland, France, Spain and Germany National Emerald Club benefits. The reserved class sets eligibility.

Reserve below full-size in those regions and the stated benefit does not apply.

How do certificate and class-based upgrades work?

Enterprise states in its Enterprise Plus Terms that Silver members receive one upgrade certificate per program year, Gold members receive two, and Platinum members receive four, redeemable at the counter based on availability up to full-size Enterprise Plus Terms and Conditions. Certificates are limited by program year. Once used, they do not renew until the next cycle.

Avis states on its loyalty page that Preferred Plus and President's Club members can take a one-class or two-class upgrade when reserving midsize or above when a vehicle is available Avis loyalty benefits. The reserved vehicle sets the floor. A smaller booking does not trigger the same option.

What should you ask for at pickup?

Use the exact benefit name for your tier. State your membership level, reserved class, and request the included upgrade. Keep your choice within the stated cap.

An upgrade up to full-size does not include luxury, vans, or specialty categories. If only a larger paid category is available, you can keep the reserved class.

• Mention your tier and membership number first
• Name the reserved class shown on your confirmation
• Ask what one-class options are available at no extra charge
• Confirm the final rate shows zero upgrade fee before you sign