Insider Tips for National Rental Car with Amex Platinum

Key Highlights

• Use your Amex Platinum card to get Executive status with National Car Rental, offering better vehicle options and faster service.
• Enjoy complimentary car rental insurance coverage up to $75,000, reducing the need for additional insurance purchases.
• Earn a free rental day faster—after six rentals instead of the usual seven required for regular members.
• Get additional elite status with Avis Preferred Plus and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle, included with your Amex Platinum card.
• Consider AmEx’s Premium Car Rental Protection for broader coverage, including luxury cars, at a competitive price.

Introduction

Maximizing travel rewards is easier with the American Express Platinum Card. This card offers premium perks such as airport lounge access, travel credits, and essential car rental insurance. It also enhances your car rental experience by providing free elite status. Let’s explore how to take full advantage of these benefits for a seamless and cost-effective trip.

Unlocking the Benefits of Amex Platinum for Car Rentals

Renting a car can be expensive, but the Amex Platinum card helps reduce costs and improves your rental experience. With complimentary car rental insurance and elite status perks, your next rental can be both more convenient and more economical.

This guide explains how to use your Platinum Card benefits with National Car Rental, including free rental days, potential vehicle upgrades, and expedited service. Take advantage of these benefits to enhance your travels.

Overview of Amex Platinum Benefits

The Amex Platinum Card provides exceptional travel perks beyond airport lounge access and travel credits. A standout benefit is its enhancements to your car rental experience.

• Car Rental Insurance: The card offers secondary insurance coverage up to $75,000 in case of theft or damage to your rental vehicle. However, this coverage only applies after any primary insurance is used.
• Membership Rewards Points: Earn points when booking car rentals, which can be redeemed for travel perks, making your rental experience even more rewarding.

Understanding the National Car Rental Partnership

As an Amex Platinum cardholder, you automatically qualify for Executive status with National’s Emerald Club. This elite status offers key benefits, particularly for frequent renters.

• Automatic Car Upgrades: When you reserve a midsize car or larger, you’re eligible for a complimentary upgrade to a better vehicle (subject to availability).
• Expedited Rental Process: Skip the rental counter and go directly to your assigned vehicle, saving valuable time.

National’s partnership with Amex Platinum makes renting a car simpler, more efficient, and more enjoyable.

Beginner’s Guide to Utilizing Amex Platinum with National Rental Car

Accessing Amex Platinum benefits with National Car Rental is straightforward. In just two steps, you can enroll and unlock valuable perks.

Let’s break down the process so you can maximize your card’s advantages when booking with National.

What You Need to Get Started

Before using your Amex Platinum benefits at National, ensure you have the following:

• Your Platinum Card details for enrollment and reservations.
• An online account with National Car Rental, where you can activate your free Executive status.

Having these ready ensures a seamless enrollment process.

Step 1: Enrolling in National’s Emerald Club as an Amex Platinum Holder

Joining the Emerald Club is an easy way to make the most of your Platinum Card. This membership grants you exclusive perks, including executive status.

To enroll:

1. Visit the National Car Rental website and navigate to the Emerald Club section.
2. Look for the special link designated for Amex Platinum cardholders to activate free Executive status.
3. Enter your Platinum Card details and personal information.
4. Complete the process and receive confirmation of your executive status.

Once enrolled, you’ll also have elite status with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and Avis Preferred.

Step 2: Linking Your Amex Platinum to Your Emerald Club Profile

After joining the Emerald Club, link your Amex Platinum card to your National account. This step streamlines future rentals and ensures you maximize rewards.

• Earn Membership Rewards Points: Connecting your Amex Platinum card allows you to earn valuable points on all National rentals.
• Simplify Bookings: Saving your Platinum Card as a payment method speeds up future reservations.
• Understand Rental Terms: Take a moment to review National’s rental agreement, ensuring you’re familiar with the terms and conditions.

Maximizing Your Car Rental Experience

Beyond seamless rentals and free insurance, your Amex Platinum card unlocks even more value when booking with National.

Let’s explore how to take full advantage of your elite status and avoid common mistakes.

Exclusive Discounts and Upgrades

As an Amex Platinum cardholder and Emerald Club Executive member, you receive premium benefits that elevate your rental experience.

• Executive Selection: Choose from high-quality vehicles in the Executive Selection area, offering better options than standard rentals.
• Automatic Upgrades: When you book a full-size car or larger, you may receive a free upgrade based on availability.
• Faster Free Rental Days: Earn a free rental day after six rentals instead of the usual seven, allowing you to save more.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Understanding key details about your Amex Platinum rental benefits will help you prevent unnecessary fees and complications.

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Your Amex Platinum provides secondary insurance, meaning your personal auto insurance will be used first in case of a claim.
• Coverage Restrictions: Free rental insurance does not cover rentals in all countries. Additionally, certain luxury or exotic vehicles may be excluded from coverage.

By knowing these details in advance, you can fully enjoy your Amex Platinum benefits while avoiding unexpected issues.

Conclusion

To maximize your national rental car experience with Amex Platinum, follow these simple steps: enroll in the Emerald Club, link your Platinum Card, and utilize elite perks. Look out for exclusive discounts, potential upgrades, and faster free rental days. By staying informed and making strategic choices, you’ll get the most value from your membership. Travel with confidence, knowing you’re leveraging your benefits effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Amex Platinum benefits be used with every car rental at National?

While the Platinum Card provides great perks, some rentals may have restrictions. To confirm eligibility for specific rentals, check National’s website or contact customer service.

How do I link my Amex Platinum card with National Rental Car?

To link your card:

1. Join the Emerald Club.
2. Log in to your national profile.
3. Add your Amex Platinum card as a payment method and save it.

This setup ensures you earn rewards and enjoy a seamless booking experience.

What perks come with National Rental Car when using Amex Platinum?

As an executive member of National’s Emerald Club, you receive:

• Possible car upgrades.
• Faster free rental days.
• Access to the Executive Selection for premium vehicle choices.

Is there a limit to how many times I can use my Amex Platinum benefits at National?

Your Platinum Card’s elite status benefits typically do not have usage limits, allowing you to enjoy perks throughout the year.

Are there blackout dates for Amex Platinum benefits with National Rental Car?

Blackout dates may apply to specific promotions or benefits. Always check National’s terms and conditions or contact customer service for the most up-to-date details.

Written by FangWallet Editors Updated April 2, 2025 by Albert Fang