First Option Rentals: Policies and Procedures

1. Rental Requirements

  • Age Requirement: Renters must be at least 21 years old (25 for certain vehicle categories) with a valid driver’s license.

  • Driver's License: A valid driver’s license must be presented at the time of rental. International renters must provide a valid international driver’s license if required.

  • Payment: A major credit or debit card in the renter’s name is required at the time of rental for the security deposit.

2. Reservation Policy

  • Booking Confirmation: Reservations are confirmed upon receipt of payment or deposit.

  • Modifications: Changes to reservations (dates, times, vehicle type) must be requested at least 24 hours before the scheduled pick-up time.

  • Cancellation Policy:

    • Free cancellation if requested 24 hours prior to the pick-up time.

    • Cancellations made within 24 hours of pick-up may incur a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the daily rental rate.

3. Pick-Up and Return

  • Pick-Up: Vehicles must be picked up at the scheduled time. Late pick-ups without prior notice may result in the cancellation of the reservation.

  • Return: Vehicles must be returned on time, with the same fuel level as when rented. Late returns may incur additional fees.

  • Condition: Vehicles must be returned in the same condition as received. Damage or excessive cleaning may result in additional charges.

4. Insurance and Liability

  • Mandatory Full Coverage: All renters must have full coverage insurance for the duration of the rental.

    • Renters may use their existing full coverage insurance, which must be verified at the time of rental.

    • Alternatively, renters can obtain full coverage directly through First Option Rentals for an additional fee.

  • Damage Responsibility: The renter is responsible for any damage not covered by insurance, including tire and windshield damage.

5. Fees and Charges

  • Rates and Fees: Rates quoted during the reservation process do not include applicable taxes or standard fees, which will be calculated and added at the time of rental pick-up.

  • Additional Extras: Optional extras such as GPS, car seats, and additional insurance coverage are subject to additional charges.

  • Fuel Policy: The vehicle must be returned with the same fuel level as when rented. If not, a refueling fee will apply.

  • Toll Fees: Renters are responsible for all toll fees incurred during the rental period.

    Deposits

    • Security Deposit Requirement: A security deposit is required for all rentals and varies based on the payment method:

      • Credit Card: $350 (charged at the time of rental)

      • Debit Card: $500 (charged at the time of rental)

      • Cash: $1,000 (paid in full at the time of rental)

    • Deposit Usage:

      • The deposit will be applied toward any outstanding fees, damages, or charges incurred during the rental period.

      • Any unused portion of the deposit will be refunded according to the refund policy.

    • Refund Policy:

      • Deposits are refunded in full within 3–7 business days after the vehicle is returned in good condition, with no outstanding charges.

      • For cash deposits, refunds will be processed on-site at the time of vehicle return if no deductions are required.

      • Refund times for credit or debit card charges may vary depending on your bank.

6. Prohibited Uses

  • Vehicles may not be used:

    • For illegal activities.

    • To carry more passengers than the vehicle's capacity.

    • For off-road driving unless explicitly stated in the rental agreement.

    • No Smoking

    • No pets

7. Emergency Procedures

  • Breakdowns: In case of a breakdown, contact our 24/7 roadside assistance at Express Towing DMV 202-394-0050.

  • Accidents:

    • Report any accidents to local authorities and to our office immediately.

    • Provide a police report if applicable.

    • Towing: Contact Express Towing DMV at 202-394-0050 for towing services. Do not allow other towing companies to tow the vehicle, as the customer will be responsible for all fees incurred.

8. Privacy Policy

  • Personal information collected during booking is used solely for rental purposes and will not be shared with third parties.

9. Amendments

  • Policies are subject to change without prior notice. Always refer to the latest version on our website or contact our office for updates.