Government FAQs

What is the Government Administrative Rate Supplement (GARS) fee?

How can I learn more about the GARS fee and the U.S. Government Car Rental Agreement?

What rates are available for leisure/non-official travel?

What are Thrifty’s government rates?

What car classes are available under Thrifty's government rates?

Are special or discounted rates available for weekly or monthly rates?

Do I need a credit card for rental?

Are government rates with Thrifty valid only in the U.S.?

Is there a charge for additional drivers?

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Does Thrifty offer any other benefits with rentals?

What is the Government Administrative Rate Supplement (GARS) fee?

This is a $5 per day fee mandated by the U.S. Government to the car rental industry.

How can I learn more about the GARS fee and the U.S. Government Car Rental Agreement?

Please visit the U.S. Government site.

What rates are available for leisure/non-official travel?

To provide you with our best rates, we've established a corporate rate for your leisure travel.

What are Thrifty’s government rates?

The government car rental rates for Thrifty and all car rental companies change often, and Thrifty is always very competitive. To see how competitive Thrifty’s government rates are, please check our rates online at: www.thrifty.com or call 1-800-THRIFTY or (1-800-847-4389).

What car classes are available under Thrifty's government rates?

We offer Economy, Compact, Mid-size, Full-size and Luxury cars as well as Minivans. Learn more.

Are special or discounted rates available for weekly or monthly rates?

Yes. Contact your government contracted travel agency or call 1-800-THRIFTY.

Do I need a credit card for rental?

On official travel, a credit card is not necessary. However, you will need a copy of your official travel orders and will need to provide a cash deposit up front for the estimated amount of the rental. If you are on leisure/non-official travel, you will need a major credit card for payment.

Are government rates with Thrifty valid only in the U.S.?

No. Thrifty provides government rates in several different countries. Please call 1-800-THRIFTY to determine where Thrifty provides government rates. Please note that Thrifty is one of the few companies to provide U.S. Government rates at all Thrifty locations worldwide. Search our locations.

Is there a charge for additional drivers?

For official travel, no. For leisure/non-official travel, yes.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Yes. For official travel, it is 18 years of age. For leisure/non-official travel, the renter must be 20 years of age unless otherwise mandated by state law.

Does Thrifty offer any other benefits with rentals?

Yes. You can earn frequent flyer miles with our travel partners and can use any Government promotions we may offer.