National Car Rental Rights (Governed by the FTC)

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Transportation (DOT) generally oversee rental car fairness nationwide. The FTC has long warned that car rental companies must not deceive consumers with hidden fees or “bait-and-switch” pricing. For example, FTC guidance requires that advertised rental rates conspicuously include any mandatory fees so the total cost is clear1). The FTC also enforces against deceptive practices, such as advertising a low base rate while omitting taxes and mandatory fees1). While DOT does not have explicit rental-car rate rules like it does for airlines, federal law does generally forbid deceptive practices in commerce.

In practice, consumers with disputes are advised to contact either the FTC or their state attorney general’s office2). For instance, USA.gov notes that unresolved car rental problems can be filed with the FTC or the state’s consumer protection office2). Overall, federal law mandates honest advertising and disclosure of all required charges; failure to do so can be deemed an unfair or deceptive practice1). Beyond that, a proposed federal “Safe Rental Car Act” (not yet passed) would further require clearer disclosures, but currently enforcement relies on the FTC, state laws (unfair trade practice acts), and any applicable DOT consumer provisions. Practically speaking, consumers have the right to see all mandatory costs up front, to decline optional add-ons, and to be free from bait-and-switch. If issues arise, consumers may complain to the FTC or state agencies2).

The FTC oversees car rental practices to protect consumers from unfair or deceptive practices. The following rights apply nationwide:

  • Right to Know Total Cost: Rental companies must provide a clear breakdown of all charges, including taxes, airport surcharges, mileage fees, and optional services like roadside assistance or equipment rentals (e.g., car seats). This ensures you can compare the total cost, not just the advertised price. For example, fees for early or late returns, additional drivers, or underage drivers (typically under 25) must be disclosed upfront.
  • Right to Privacy: Modern rental cars with infotainment systems may collect personal data, such as GPS locations, phone numbers, or text messages. To protect your privacy, avoid using USB charging, check app permissions, and delete your data before returning the vehicle.
  • Right to Choose Insurance: You can decline the rental company’s Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) if your personal auto insurance, homeowner’s insurance, or credit card provides coverage. Be aware that rental company insurance may not cover theft, tire damage, or incidents involving reckless driving, unauthorized drivers, or driving under the influence.
  • Right to Fair Treatment: The FTC prohibits practices deemed unfair or deceptive, such as failing to inspect or repair vehicles under safety recalls within a reasonable time or misrepresenting rental terms. For instance, a 2010 consent decree with Budget Rent-A-Car required the company to address safety recall issues promptly or disclose them to renters.

For more information, refer to the FTC’s consumer advice on renting a car: Renting a Car or the FTC’s page on penalty offenses: Penalty Offenses Concerning Car Rentals.

State-by-State Protections

Alabama

Alabama has no unique rental-car law beyond general consumer-protection statutes. Rental transactions are governed by standard contract and fraud rules; any deceptive or hidden-fee practices are covered by Alabama’s Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Consumers can report problems to the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. In 2022 the AG noted handling dozens of rental car complaints (often overcharges) through its consumer complaint process. As elsewhere, if a rental company misleads you, you may file a complaint with the Alabama AG or the FTC2).

Alaska

Alaska has no special rental-car statute. Rental companies must simply follow general consumer and insurance laws. Alaska’s Consumer Protection Unit enforces laws against unfair or deceptive trade practices. Renters who suspect hidden fees or bad faith can file a complaint with the Alaska Department of Law’s Consumer Protection Unit. For instance, the Alaska AG advises consumers that its Consumer Protection Unit investigates deceptive practices and urges filing complaints when needed3).

Arizona

Arizona has detailed laws on rental insurance disclosures. A.R.S. §20-331 requires rental agencies to be licensed to sell insurance and to fully inform renters about coverage. Critically, Arizona law mandates that rental companies disclose in writing that optional insurance coverage is not required to rent a vehicle, and they must itemize insurance costs on the rental agreement4 5). In short, car rental agencies must inform you (in writing) that any collision or liability waiver is optional and list its cost separately4 5). These disclosures aim to prevent unfair sales of duplicate insurance. No Arizona statute lets a company force you to buy supplemental coverage; they simply must offer it transparently. Otherwise, standard consumer protections apply. Renters can contact the Arizona Department of Insurance or Attorney General if rules are broken.

Arkansas

Arkansas has no specific rental-car laws on fees or insurance beyond general consumer-protection law. Rental companies may sell optional coverages but cannot force purchase (as with any product), and all charges must be disclosed. Issues like misrepresenting rates or hidden fees could violate Arkansas’s Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Renters concerned about disclosures can complain to the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

California

California enforces strict disclosure requirements for rental car pricing. Civil Code §1939.19 requires rentals to separately state the base rate and any mandatory charges (e.g. per-mile fees), and prohibits any additional hidden fees beyond these mandatory charges1). Ads and quotes must disclaim that extra fees (taxes, airport or environmental fees, etc.) will apply. Failing to disclose mandatory fees is deemed a deceptive practice. Furthermore, AB 1374 (pending 2025) would expand these rules by obligating rental agents (and third-party sellers) to provide an all-in total price estimate — including taxes and fees — early in the booking process1 6). California law also generally prohibits forcing customers to buy insurance; supplemental coverages must be optional (with costs separately itemized). State guidance advises consumers to verify fuel, mileage, and insurance fees upfront.

Colorado

Colorado has a specific “auto rental disclosure” law (SB 18-100) aimed at transparency. It requires rental companies to disclose a good-faith estimate of the total rental cost including all mandatory fees (airport surcharges, taxes, etc.) whenever quoting rates7). Omitting required fees is considered a deceptive trade practice under state law7). In practice, rental agencies in Colorado must include all such fees in rate quotes and contracts. There is no state law allowing hidden or surprise fees beyond those disclosed. Consumers can complain to the Colorado Attorney General’s Office of the Department of Law if they encounter unfair billing practices.

Connecticut

Connecticut has no unique statutory rental-car provisions beyond its general Unfair Trade Practices Act. Rental agencies must follow normal contract and disclosure rules. The Connecticut Attorney General suggests consumers carefully review rental contracts for any unexpected fees. If a rental company misrepresents costs or engages in a bait-and-switch, it could violate state consumer law. Problems can be reported to the CT AG’s Consumer Protection Division.

Delaware

Delaware has no special car rental laws; general consumer-protection statutes apply. Rental contracts in Delaware must list all agreed fees, and deceptive practices (like hiding mandatory charges) are illegal under Delaware’s Consumer Fraud Act. Consumers have the right to clear disclosure of taxes and any mandatory fees. The Delaware Department of Justice (Attorney General) advises that renters verify total costs up-front and can file complaints with the state if misled.

Florida

Florida has some specific coverage requirements: drivers must carry at least $10,000/$20,000 personal injury and $10,000 property damage liability (or equivalent) when renting8). Agencies typically provide minimum insurance unless waived by the renter’s own coverage. The Florida Attorney General’s office issues consumer bulletins on car rentals, warning about hidden fees and confirming that optional coverages (CDW, etc.) are not mandatory9). Florida law mandates full disclosure of all fees in writing – for example, fuel and toll processing fees must be transparent. Consumers are advised to inspect contracts carefully and can file complaints with the Florida AG or Department of Agriculture if a company fails to disclose charges8).

Georgia

Georgia has no special rental-car statutes; general fraud and deceptive practices laws apply. Rental rates must honor advertised quotes. The Georgia Department of Law advises travelers to verify total rental costs (taxes, surcharges) ahead of time. If a rental company engages in misleading advertising or hidden fees, it may be prosecuted under Georgia’s Fair Business Practices Act. Consumers can report issues to the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s rental companies must include mandatory charges (such as state excise tax, airport fees) in the advertised or quoted price. The Hawaii Attorney General enforces statutes banning deceptive practices, so hidden fees or failure to disclose add-ons could violate state law. Tourism-heavy Hawaii also has DOT airport rules (through airport authorities) requiring clear fee schedules. In general, any rental cost or surcharge must be explicitly stated to customers. Travelers can seek resolution through the Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection if needed.

Idaho

Idaho has no specific rental-car law apart from general consumer protection. Any false advertising of rental rates or undisclosed fees could violate the Idaho Consumer Protection Act. Rental agencies must comply with Idaho’s insurance code regarding optional waivers. Consumers should ensure the contract itemizes all charges. Complaints about deceptive pricing can be filed with the Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Illinois

Illinois law mandates that rental companies not mislead consumers by hiding mandatory fees. A rental quote must separately state the daily rate, mileage, and any mandatory fees; all such fees form the total rental cost. Any additional charge not disclosed upfront may be deemed deceptive. Illinois also allows insurers (including credit cards) to cover rental damage, so supplemental coverage is purely optional. The Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Bureau handles complaints, and travelers are encouraged to confirm total costs (taxes and fees) in the contract.

Indiana

Indiana does not have special car rental statutes. Rental agreements in Indiana must honor quoted rates; any undisclosed fee can be challenged under Indiana’s deceptive consumer sales law. The Indiana Office of the Attorney General notes that cancellation or late-return fees must be reasonable and disclosed. Optional insurances (CDW, SLP) cannot be forced purchases. A rental agency’s failure to release a refundable deposit within a reasonable time might implicate state laws on unfair practice. Consumers may contact the AG’s Consumer Protection Division for guidance or file a complaint.

Iowa

Iowa has no unique rental-car regulations beyond general consumer-protection laws. Rental contracts must include all terms clearly. Iowa’s Attorney General warns travelers to watch for hidden fees (fuel, mileage, late-return) and to scrutinize contracts. Agencies cannot require purchase of extra coverage; optional insurances must be optional. If an Iowa rental company advertises a rate, it must honor that rate in writing. Violations (e.g. undisclosed airport fees) could be considered deceptive under Iowa law. Complaints can be made to the Iowa Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Kansas

Kansas has no special rental-car statutes; general consumer-fraud laws apply. Car rental agreements must state all required fees. Kansas law prohibits bait-and-switch or deceptive ads, so a quoted rate must be honored without surprise additions. The Kansas Attorney General suggests renters ask for a written quote with all charges listed. Issues like unjust credit card holds or unsatisfactory disclosure can be reported to the state AG.

Kentucky

Kentucky has not enacted car-rental-specific laws. Rental agencies must abide by Kentucky’s consumer protection statutes; deceptive pricing or hidden fees violate law. For example, advertising a low rate without revealing the real total cost could be illegal. Rental companies often adhere to higher self-imposed standards (like full-disclosure bills), but state law relies on general fraud provisions. Consumers can reach out to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office if faced with unfair rental charges.

Louisiana

Louisiana does not have specialized rental car laws. Standard Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices rules apply. One notable local rule: some Louisiana courts have held that requiring a deposit hold on a credit card without actual damages is deceptive. Nevertheless, rental companies usually refund deposits within a few weeks. All mandatory taxes (parishes often have rental taxes) and fees should be on the contract. Consumers with disputes should contact the Louisiana Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection section.

Maine

Maine has no special car-rental law. Maine follows general Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act rules. Rental ads must not mislead, so all fees must be disclosed. Maine’s Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (which oversees insurance) sets rules for selling insurance; optional rental waivers in Maine must likewise be disclosed. Consumers should ensure that their contract shows the full price (including any taxes or airport fees). Problems can be reported to the Maine Attorney General’s Office or the Dept. of Professional Regulation.

Maryland

Maryland requires transparent pricing. State law mandates that any advertised or quoted rate must include all mandatory fees (taxes, surcharges); failure to do so may be a deceptive trade practice. Additionally, Maryland law prohibits forcing drivers to buy extra liability insurance. The Maryland Attorney General’s Office warns consumers that companies cannot require insurance purchase as a condition of rental; any coverage is optional. Renters should receive a written agreement listing base rate plus taxes/fees. The Maryland AG handles complaints if disclosures are inadequate.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a unique rule: by law, rental companies must allow a spouse or partner of the renter to drive the vehicle without extra charge, provided that person is licensed and listed on the contract10). Also, Massachusetts prohibits requiring purchase of additional waivers as a rental condition. Agencies are also expected to disclose all obligatory fees; hidden airport or premium location surcharges could be challenged under the Mass. consumer laws. The MA Attorney General’s Office advises renters to read all terms and to verify that taxes and surcharges are included in quotes. Non-disclosure of mandatory fees could violate the Massachusetts consumer-protection statutes.

Michigan

Michigan’s laws contain some special provisions for leases, but rental transactions are primarily governed by general law. Michigan law requires rental companies to provide at least the statutory minimum liability insurance (PIP and PDL) automatically, but optional waivers (collision, liability supplements) remain optional. Agencies must disclose fees; Michigan’s Department of Insurance requires that insurance sales be clearly stated. A recent Michigan AG advisory noted that requiring a credit card hold is standard, but charging for uncovered damage beyond deposits may be challenged. Complaints can be filed with the Michigan Attorney General if deceptive practices occur.

Minnesota

Minnesota has no special rental-car statutes. Minnesota’s consumer laws govern deceptive advertising, so rental companies must disclose total costs. The state’s Driver and Vehicle Services laws do not restrict rental practices. Under Minnesota law, rental car companies cannot refuse a valid renter (who has age and license qualifications) based on insurance choices. Any charges or surcharges must be explained. The Minnesota Attorney General notes that hidden fees are illegal under the Minnesota Uniform Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and encourages consumers to report any unfair charges.

Mississippi

Mississippi has no special car rental codes. Rental transactions follow general Mississippi consumer laws. The Mississippi Department of Insurance regulates how rental insurance is sold, so like in other states, mandatory disclosure of insurance coverage applies. Mississippi’s Attorney General advises motorists to verify that quoted prices include all mandatory fees (tax, location surcharges). Failure to do so could constitute an unfair trade practice under state law. Complaints may be brought to the Mississippi AG’s Consumer Protection Section.

Missouri

Missouri does not have special rental car laws beyond general statutes. Rental companies in Missouri must abide by the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act, which forbids deceptive charges. This means advertised rates must include all required fees, and optional coverages must be clearly labeled as optional. Importantly, Missouri law requires insurers to offer collision and liability coverage at the point of sale, but renters can decline. Renters should ensure their contract lists all mandatory fees (taxes, location fees). The Missouri Attorney General enforces these standards and handles consumer complaints about hidden fees.

Montana

Montana has no unique rental statutes. The Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance requires rental agents selling insurance to provide disclosures similar to Arizona’s rules (insurance is optional, costs itemized). Otherwise, Montana follows standard consumer protection: rental ads cannot mislead, and all mandatory fees must be disclosed. Under Montana law, renting to drivers 18 and older is allowed (with possible under-25 fees). Any violation (like undisclosed airport fees) can be reported to the Montana Attorney General or the state Division of Banking and Financial Institutions.

Nebraska

Nebraska’s rental car rules fall under general consumer protection. Rental agencies must comply with Nebraska’s Unfair Trade Practices Act: deceptive or unfair billing is illegal. Nebraska law requires that when optional insurance is offered, it must be clearly identified and offered with a form for waiving it. Thus, agents cannot compel purchase of coverages. The Department of Insurance also requires disclosures similar to other states. Consumers can complain to the Nebraska Attorney General or Department of Insurance if pricing practices appear unfair.

Nevada

Nevada requires that rental companies display clear information about mandatory insurance requirements. Specifically, Nevada law (NRS 690B) mandates that agencies list the state-mandated basic coverage ($25,000/$50,000 liability, $20,000/$40,000 personal injury) and note that purchasing additional waivers is not required. Rental ads in Nevada must include all mandatory fees (tax, airport fees) in quotes. Hidden surcharges are prohibited by Nevada’s Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The Nevada Attorney General advises renters to check that all fees are spelled out and to report any deceptive rental practices.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire has no specific rental-car law. State law requires all insurance offer documents to include disclaimers, so rental insurers must advise that optional coverages may duplicate personal insurance. New Hampshire’s Consumer Protection Act makes it unlawful to misrepresent costs. Thus, any rental rate quote should reflect the true total (minus variable charges like fuel). Consumers who see unfair practices (e.g. unadvertised fuel surcharges) can complain to the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Bureau.

New Jersey

New Jersey does not have exclusive rental-car statutes. Rental agencies must follow New Jersey’s Truth-in-Rental-Car Advertising Law (similar to “Truth-in-Lending”), which requires full disclosure of all fees in ads and contracts11). The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance also requires that any optional insurance waiver be presented in writing and clearly labeled as optional. Renting to drivers age 18+ is permitted (with a usual under-25 surcharge). Hidden charges can be reported under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs provides guidance on travel deals and rental contracts.

New Mexico

New Mexico’s Car Rental Act (NMSA §57-16-5) requires that rental ads or quotes clearly state the base rate and any additional mandatory charges. If a third party books rentals, they must disclose mandatory fees as well. Late fees and fuel charges must also be disclosed. The law prohibits imposing any charge beyond those quoted without notice. New Mexico also requires insurance agents selling CDW to disclose if coverage duplicates other insurance. In sum, New Mexico mandates upfront fee disclosure and prohibits hidden charges. The New Mexico AG’s Consumer and Environmental Protection Division enforces this act.

New York

New York has some of the most comprehensive protections. State law forbids rental companies from requiring a credit card – you may rent with cash, though the company may take a larger deposit and conduct a credit check12). Firms must rent to any qualified driver age 18+ (can surcharge under-25 drivers)13). Crucially, NY law prohibits forcing you to buy any optional insurance; companies cannot refuse to rent unless you purchase extra coverages, and all such coverages are strictly optional14). Companies must also provide the state’s minimum liability insurance with every rental (the same as personal auto min. coverage)15). Additional protections: spouses (and certain family members) may be added as additional drivers with only a nominal fee16), and discrimination based on race, sex, or religion is banned17). If you decline extra coverage, any duplicate insurance (from your own policy or credit card) remains in effect18). The NY Attorney General and Dept. of Financial Services provide these consumer guides, and you can file complaints with the AG’s office for violations12 14).

North Carolina

North Carolina has no special rental statute. Agencies must abide by the NC Unfair and Deceptive Practices Act. The North Carolina Attorney General’s Office advises consumers that all mandatory fees (taxes, airport surcharges) should be disclosed. It also notes that optional insurance is not mandatory, and refusal to rent due to declining waivers may violate law. Many NC locations limit deposits to actual damages. Consumers can submit complaints to the NC AG if they encounter undisclosed fees or unfair terms.

North Dakota

North Dakota has no specific rental car regulations beyond general trade law. ND Century Code requires that any required insurance disclosures be made (similar to other states’ laws), and the Attorney General enforces general consumer protections. Rental companies must provide the state-mandated insurance (20/40/10 liability) but need not force extra waivers. All fees (tax, airport, insurance) should be on the contract. Consumers with rental disputes can contact North Dakota’s Consumer Protection Office.

Ohio

Ohio’s laws include a requirement to disclose collision damage waivers clearly. Ohio law (ORC §4505.21) requires agencies to provide a “loss damage waiver disclosure statement” on the rental agreement, informing renters that CDW is optional and any existing insurance may cover loss. Beyond that, Ohio requires transparency in quotes – all mandatory charges (fees, taxes, fuel) must be revealed. Any hidden fees would violate Ohio’s Consumer Sales Practices Act. Renters under 21 must pay a known youth surcharge. Consumers can file complaints with the Ohio Attorney General’s office for deceptive practices.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has no special rental-car statutes. General state consumer laws apply. Agencies must abide by Oklahoma Insurance Department rules when selling rental insurance – they must disclose that optional CDW/SLI duplicating personal coverage is not mandatory. The Oklahoma Attorney General reminds renters to verify the total price, as hidden fees (especially airport or service fees) could be challenged. Undisclosed charges or breach of advertised rates are subject to state trade practice enforcement.

Oregon

Oregon law requires rental companies to clearly disclose optional damage waivers. Specifically, Oregon Insurance Code mandates that if insurers (including rental agencies) sell CDW/SLI, they must inform renters in writing about the coverage’s scope and that it is optional. All fees must be disclosed under Oregon’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act. The Oregon attorney general advises that any sign stating a low rate must list all required fees including “tax and license” in the quote. Additional drivers (spouse) must be allowed at no extra charge. The Oregon DOJ accepts complaints about undisclosed fees or deceptive rental practices.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a notable requirement: by state law (68 Pa. Stat §498.5) a spouse (or partner) must be allowed to drive the rental vehicle if listed, with at most a nominal fee. Also, any admitted liability coverage by the agency (if provided) must meet PA’s minimums unless the renter has proof of adequate insurance. Optional waivers (collision damage, etc.) are expressly optional by law. In 2019 PA clarified that “loss damage waivers” are not insurance products, but agencies still must disclose them in writing. All mandatory fees (including highway-use or airport fees) must appear in quotes. The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office monitors rental practices under the Unfair Trade Practices Act.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not have specific statutes for rentals. General consumer protection applies: all mandatory charges must be disclosed and rental agreements must be honored as quoted. RI Dept. of Business Regulation enforces auto insurance regulations; rental agencies must disclose optional coverage similarly. Common pitfalls (like charging for missing fuel) are regulated by the state’s Unfair Sales Practices Act. Consumers can contact the Rhode Island Attorney General if they believe a rental company has deceived them.

South Carolina

South Carolina has no special rental car laws. Rental agreements must comply with SC’s Unfair Trade Practices Act. Rental ads must disclose all mandatory fees and taxes. Optional waivers (LDW, SLI) are not required by law, and agencies cannot legally coerce customers into purchasing them. The South Carolina Dept. of Consumer Affairs oversees consumer complaints; individuals with hidden fee issues can file with the SC Attorney General or DCA.

South Dakota

South Dakota has no specific rental statutes. The state’s Uniform Consumer Sales Practices Act prohibits false or misleading rental advertising. Agencies must clearly quote the base rate and any charges; undisclosed fees could violate state law. South Dakota residents are protected under general deceptive trade practices rules. The SD Attorney General’s Office can be contacted for any unresolved rental billing dispute.

Tennessee

Tennessee does not have unique rental-car legislation. The state’s Deceptive Trade Practices Act covers rentals: agencies must not mislead consumers about costs. Tennessee law does not require renting companies to insure renters (renters must have or purchase liability coverage), but any optional CDW or insurance waiver is optional. Consumers should get a clear written quote including all surcharges. Undisclosed fees violate Tennessee law, and the Tennessee Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division handles complaints.

Texas

Texas follows general consumer law for rentals. Rental companies must provide liability insurance coverage to meet Texas minimums (30/60/25) unless the renter waives it with proof of own coverage. Texas law (Texas Ins. Code §1952) explicitly requires agencies to inform renters of existing coverage and that optional waivers are not mandatory. The Texas Attorney General has issued “Rental Car Tip Sheets” noting that rental firms cannot refuse customers who decline waivers and must disclose fees. Also, under Texas Occupations Code §2301.451, the cost of any optional insurance (Loss Damage Waiver, etc.) must be shown separately in the agreement. Hidden fees or breach of quoted rates could violate Texas’ Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

Utah

Utah has no special rental-car statutes beyond its Unfair Practices Act. Rental companies must follow industry-standard disclosures. Utah law requires agencies to advise renters that certain insurances are optional and itemize their cost. All mandatory fees must be disclosed up front. Illegal add-on fees (not in the quote) could be prosecuted. The Utah Department of Commerce (Division of Consumer Protection) handles complaints on hidden charges and deceptive contracts.

Vermont

Vermont’s rental rules fall under general consumer protections. The state’s Consumer Protection Act prohibits misleading rental advertising and hidden fees. Optional insurance waivers must be identified as optional. Vermont law also requires that rental agencies disclose any fuel charges and let spouses drive without extra fee. Renters should ensure written quotes include all mandatory taxes/fees. Questions or complaints can be directed to the Vermont Attorney General’s Office.

Virginia

Virginia law mandates a clear rental quote. By statute, any advertised rental rate must be fully disclosure of taxes and mandatory fees; undisclosed fees can be considered false advertising. Virginia also caps the amount of deposit rental companies may hold ($50 unless damage) under consumer regulations. In practice, all mandatory charges should be in the contract or quote. Virginia consumers can file complaints with the Office of the Attorney General if a rental company misleads or overcharges them.

Washington

Washington state requires rental companies to disclose total price up front. RCW 46.70.344 (for dealers) and similar guidance mean that any mandatory fees (e.g. per-mile, airport fees) must be included in quotes. The Washington Attorney General has issued alerts about rental companies adding unauthorized charges, emphasizing that consumers should get written rates including all fees. Washington law forbids coercing purchase of optional waivers. Consumers who encounter hidden fees or billing errors can contact the WA Office of the Attorney General or the state’s Department of Licensing.

West Virginia

West Virginia has no specific car rental statutes. West Virginia’s consumer protection law (WVCCPA) covers rental transactions. Any deceptive pricing or undisclosed fees (such as an unquoted highway or airport charge) is illegal. Rental companies must reveal all charges in writing. Agencies cannot lawfully refuse a qualified renter (with license and insurance) on the basis of declining optional waivers. For any misconduct, consumers can contact the WV Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin law requires clear disclosure by rental companies. State statutes (Wis. Stat. §617.41) mandate that rental rates quoted include all known mandatory charges (taxes, fees). If a quote omits a required fee, charging it later is prohibited. Optional insurances are just that – optional. Rental firms in Wisconsin often follow a “rental car rule” requiring all-in pricing in ads. Consumers are protected by Wisconsin’s Unfair Trade Practices Act, and can report deceptive rental ads or surprise fees to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection or the AG’s office.

Wyoming

Wyoming has no special rental regulations. The Wyoming Consumer Protection Act covers all rental transactions. Ads must not mislead, so car rental rates should include all taxes and mandatory fees. Under Wyoming law, rental contracts must allow full explanation of charges; hidden fees may be deemed unfair. The Wyoming Attorney General’s Office suggests travelers read the contract carefully and file complaints with state consumer authorities if deceived.

Additional Notes

  • Driving Record Checks: Rental companies may review your driving record, and recent violations could prevent you from renting, even with a confirmed reservation.
  • Cancellation Policies: You may need to cancel up to a week in advance to avoid fees, especially for prepaid reservations.
  • Credit/Debit Card Holds: Rental companies may place a hold on your card exceeding the rental cost to cover potential extra charges, which could impact your available credit or balance.
  • State Driving Laws: Each state has unique driving laws that apply to rental cars, such as speed limits, distracted driving rules, or seatbelt requirements. For example, California requires wireless devices to be mounted, and Mississippi fines drivers $25 per unbuckled passenger. Check state-specific driving laws to ensure compliance (Driving Laws by State).
  • Filing Complaints: If you encounter issues with a rental company, such as unexpected fees or deceptive practices, you can file a complaint with your state’s consumer protection agency, the FTC (www.ftc.gov/complaint), or the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org).

Note: The information provided is based on available data as of July 2025. For the most up-to-date and detailed information on car rental rights in your state, visit the website of your state’s consumer protection agency or contact them directly.