The more customers are excited while picking up their rental car the more they should be punctual while returning it on time. Yes, travelers rent a car to enjoy freedom and flexibility while traveling, but it comes with a few responsibilities. One of the most important is returning the car on time. But what happens if you return a rental car late?
Many people are not aware of the specific policies of rental companies regarding late returns. In this article, we will explain what rental companies do if you return their cars late, late return charges, and what you can do if you are running late.
Is It Important to Return a Rental Car on Time?
Returning a rental car on time is necessary to avoid extra fees and issues. Car rental companies set strict return times, and if you do not follow them, you may face additional charges or penalties. But life does not work the same way we decide, like maybe your flight got delayed, or you hit unexpected traffic. What is important is to know what can be the result and how to handle it if you are unable to return the vehicle on time. Most rental car companies offer some extra time to return their cars, but there are always conditions tied to late returns. Let’s check out the various scenarios, from grace periods to late fees, and some tips on how to avoid unnecessary costs.
✅ Returning on time helps you avoid:
- Extra late return fees
- Contract issues with the rental company
- Insurance problems if your coverage expires
🔹Note: Sometimes delays happen (e.g., flight delays, traffic). However knowing rental policies helps you handle the situation better.
What Is the Grace Period?
Most rental car companies understand that delays happen. That is why many rental companies offer a grace period. It is a short time when you can return the car late without facing extra fees. The grace period generally lasts 15 to 30 minutes, but this varies by company. For example: Enterprise offers a 29-minute grace period, but it does not mean other companies will have the same grace period. But, do not depend on it. If you return the car after this grace period even for just a few minutes, you will pay late-return charges to the company.
Most rental companies offer a short grace period for late returns:
✔ This is a small extra time before late fees start
✔ Usually lasts 15–30 minutes (varies by company)
💡 Example:
- Enterprise gives a 29-minute grace period.
- Hertz and SIXT may have a grace period, but it’s not guaranteed.
🚨 Note: If you return the car after the grace period, you will be charged late fees.
Do You Have to Pay Late Fees?
Once you pass the grace period, rental companies start charging late fees. Companies charge these fees by the hour or day, depending on how late you are. Here’s how it usually works:
Hourly Fees: After the grace period, you may have to pay hourly for up to three to four hours. For example, if your rental was $50 per day, they might charge $12.50 per hour. Always remember that hourly charges can vary depending on the rental company’s policy.
Full-Day Charges: If you are more than three to four hours late, they will ask you to pay for a full extra day. Like, if your daily rental rate is $60, so you will pay an additional $60 fee for a full day’s charge. This applies even if you are just a few hours late. Rental companies count a certain number of hours late as a new rental period. This means, that if you return the car late by a fixed number of hours, the rental company may charge you as if you rented the car for another full day or rental period.
Extra Insurance or Add-ons: If you bought insurance or extras like GPS or car seats, companies may charge you for them for the extra time. Each other day can raise costs a lot. Rental companies often specify these terms in their agreements. It is good to review the policy before you start driving to know what you are signing up for.
How Late Fees Work:
| Time Late | How They Charge You |
| 0-30 min | No charge (grace period applies) |
| 30 min – 2.5 hours | Charged hourly (e.g., $12.50 per hour if daily rate is $50) |
| More than 2.5 hours | Full-day charge applies (even if late by just a few hours) |
| Multiple days late | Charged daily rental rate + extra fees |
📌 Extra costs:
- 🚗 If you rented Insurance & add-ons, such as GPS, car seats, or insurance, you pay for extra days.
- 🚨 Rental companies may charge a penalty for very late returns.
Take A Look at the Late Return Policy of Top Companies
Europcar Rental: If you return your Europcar car late or need more time, call +594 594 35 18 27. They may charge you an extra day’s fee for a late return.
Hertz: Some Hertz locations may offer a grace period, but it’s not guaranteed. If you’re late, they may charge you for an extra day.
SIXT: If you return your SIXT car late, you may have to pay extra fees.
Enterprise: Enterprise gives a 29-minute grace period. If you return the car up to 2.5 hours late, they will charge you for each extra hour. After 2.5 hours, you will pay for an extra day. If you return after hours, you are still responsible for any damage until the staff checks the car the next day.
| Rental Company | Grace Period | Late Fee Policy |
| Enterprise | 29 minutes | After 2.5 hours, charged for a full extra day |
| Hertz | Varies by location | May charge for an extra day if late |
| SIXT | No official grace period | Charges extra fees for late returns |
| Europcar | Call for extension | May charge for an extra day |
📌Note: Always check the rental agreement before booking.
How Late Returns Affect Your Insurance & Contract Terms?
Returning a rental car late may also affect insurance coverage. Most insurance policies, including those offered by rental companies, cover you only for the time you are renting the vehicle. If you increase that time without informing the company, you can find yourself without insurance for the period you are late. This can put you in a tricky situation if an accident occurs while you are late returning the car. Always discuss with your rental provider what happens with insurance if you are late. Some companies will extend your insurance, but there is no guarantee.
🚨 Returning a rental car late may cause insurance issues:
✔ Most rental insurance covers only the rental period.
✔ If you keep the car longer without informing the company, your insurance may expire.
✔ If an accident happens after your rental period ends, you might have to pay all costs yourself.
💡 Note: Always call the rental company if you think you’ll be late.
Extend the Rental Rather Than Returning It Late
If you know already that you will be late, one option to deal with this situation is to extend the rental period. You might have to visit their office to extend your rental or you can do it online. It is better to increase the rental rather than be late to avoid penalties. This also makes the return process more convenient and easier. Please note that extending the rental may come with additional charges, especially if rates have changed and are not the same as at the time of your booking.
🚗 If you know you will be late, extend the rental to avoid penalties:
✔ Most companies allow online or phone extensions
✔ Easier than paying late fees
✔ Ensures insurance stays active
📌 Note: Extending your rental may cost more if rates have changed.
What If You Do Not Return the Car at All?
If the rental car is not returned on time, or not returned at all, the rental company may think the car is stolen. This usually happens if you fail to contact the rental company in advance and are days or weeks late to return their vehicles. The company might charge you for the entire value of the car, file a police report, or take legal action. If you are in a situation where you can not return the car on time, always inform the rental company in advance to avoid legal issues.
🚨 If you don’t return a rental car and don’t contact the company, they may treat it as stolen.
❌ They may:
- Charge you for the full value of the car
- File a police report
- Take legal action
💡 Note: If you can’t return the car on time, always inform the rental company!
How to Avoid Late Return Fees?
Here are some tips to help you avoid the late return fees:
✔ Plan Ahead: Give yourself plenty of time to return the car, considering possible delays like traffic or long lines at the return center.
✔ Set Reminders: You can use your phone to set reminders about the return time.
✔ Extend the Rental: If you know that you can be late, contact the rental company and ask them to extend the rental time.
✔ Know the Policy: Always read the fine print when you rent the car. Each company has its own rules about late fees and grace periods.
✔ Avoid Rush Hours: If possible, return the car early to avoid any last-minute rush or stress.
📌 Note: Good planning can help you avoid extra charges!
What Happens to Your Credit Card?
If you return a car late, the rental companies charge extra from your credit card. The companies hold a deposit starting when you rent the car, and if you are late, they will charge the late fees from that deposit. If the late fee is more than the deposit amount, they will also charge the difference to your card. It is important to make sure your credit card has enough available credit to cover any late fees. If your card is declined, you might face additional issues like collection calls or holds on future rentals.
💳 If you return a rental car late, the company charges your credit card:
✔ Rental companies hold a security deposit when you rent the car.
✔ If you’re late, they deduct late fees from the deposit.
✔ If fees are higher than the deposit, they charge the extra amount to your card.
🚨 If your card gets declined, you may face:
- Collection calls
- Holds on future rentals
📌 Note: Always make sure you have enough credit to cover possible late fees.
Conclusion
So, if you are late, do not panic. With a little planning, you can avoid charges for late returns. Learn the rental company’s rules, and always give yourself extra time when planning to return the car. If you cannot avoid delays, talk to the rental company early to handle the situation. Being aware of what happens when you return a rental car late can save you from hidden charges.
So, the next time you rent a car, remember to check the details, plan your return, and avoid any unnecessary costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a grace period for car rentals?
A grace period is a short time after your scheduled return when the company won’t charge a late fee. Typically, this period is about 29 minutes. After it ends, late fees usually start.
Can I avoid late fees if I inform the rental company about my delay?
Informing the company about your delay can sometimes help. They might offer options like extending your rental to avoid late fees. However, this isn’t guaranteed.
How much are the late fees?
Late fees vary by company. After the grace period, some companies charge hourly rates. If you’re more than 90 minutes late, they might charge for a full extra day.
What happens if I return the car after hours?
If you return the car after hours, the company will check it in the next business day. You’re responsible for the car until then, and extra charges may apply.
Can I extend my rental period?
Yes, you can often extend your rental by contacting the company. This helps avoid late fees and ensures you’re covered by insurance. Be aware that the daily rate might change.
