Source: The Points Guy
Summary
Avis Preferred is a free rental car loyalty program that allows members to earn points on rentals and accessories. Members can qualify for elite status through rental activity or through airline or credit card elite status. The program offers benefits such as skipping the rental counter and vehicle upgrades. Points can be redeemed for rentals, but the value depends on the standard base rate rather than the actual paid rate. The program is most beneficial for frequent renters who can leverage complimentary status or discount codes.
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The escape is carefully planned.
Avis Preferred members skip the counter. Elite tiers offer upgrades. Points redeem for rentals, but not always at a discount. Airlines and credit cards unlock status. Rewards depend on base rates, not actual prices.
One sentence that reframes the trip: Avis Preferred is less about savings and more about status, with points that rarely match the value of the actual rental.
Author: Evan Null
What is Avis Preferred?
Avis Preferred is a free-to-join rental car loyalty program. Members earn points on rentals and accessories, with benefits like skipping the counter. The program has three tiers: Avis Preferred, Avis Preferred Plus, and Avis President’s Club. Eligibility for elite status can come from rental activity or through airline or credit card elite status.
Avis Preferred elite status
The program offers three tiers, each with different requirements and benefits. Avis Preferred is the base tier, with no requirements. Avis Preferred Plus requires 10 rentals or $4,000 spent. Avis President’s Club requires 20 rentals or $6,000 spent. Elite members get upgrades, dedicated support, and guaranteed availability.
How to earn Avis Preferred points
Members earn points on rentals and accessories at participating Avis locations. The earning rate increases with status tier. However, points are only earned on base rental charges, not on fees or taxes. Avis may charge a surcharge if members opt to earn rewards through another program.
How to redeem Avis Preferred points
Points can be redeemed for rentals and accessories in the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada. Redemption rates vary based on the standard base rate of the rental. However, the actual paid rate is often lower than the base rate, reducing the value of the redemption.
How to get the most value from Avis Preferred
To maximize value, members should leverage complimentary status through airline or credit card programs. They should also check for discount codes and compare paid and award rates. Using a credit card with rental car insurance can also provide additional benefits.
