In today’s fast-paced world, convenience and reliability have become essential in travel. Whether you’re a business executive flying in for a corporate meeting or a vacationer exploring a new city, your journey often begins the moment you step into a rental car. That’s where National Car Rental comes in. With over 75 years of trusted service and a strong reputation for putting customers first, National has become one of the most respected and preferred car rental companies in the world.
National Car Rental is more than just a brand offering cars; it’s a travel companion for millions who seek speed, comfort, loyalty rewards, and exceptional service. Its focus on streamlined booking, efficient vehicle access, and premium fleet quality makes it a reliable partner for all kinds of travelers. From its early beginnings to its status today as a global leader, National’s story is one of innovation and customer satisfaction. In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything about National Car Rental—from its origins and international network to its Emerald Club program, vehicle selection, booking process, and practical tips for getting the best rental experience.
The History and Evolution of National Car Rental
The story of National Car Rental began in 1947 when 24 independent rental agents joined forces to create a unified car rental system across North America. This collaboration aimed to bring consistency and reliability to the rental experience, which was still evolving at the time. Based in Missouri, National was among the first rental companies to focus on airport locations, recognizing early on that air travelers would need immediate access to ground transportation. This strategic decision helped set National apart from competitors and positioned it as a leader in the industry.
As the travel landscape changed over the decades, National continued to innovate. It introduced one-way rentals, allowing travelers to pick up a car in one city and return it to another—an idea that revolutionized road travel. National also became known for serving government contracts, business clients, and frequent flyers who valued speed and efficiency. In 2007, National was acquired by Enterprise Holdings, which also owns Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Alamo. While joining a larger group, National retained its distinct identity and continued to serve a loyal customer base with the same commitment to excellence.
Over the years, the brand has expanded to operate in more than 60 countries, with thousands of rental locations across airports, cities, and suburban areas. National’s focus on time-saving services, premium vehicles, and loyalty rewards has cemented its status as a favorite for both business and leisure travelers. Its history is not just a timeline of events, but a reflection of how the brand has consistently adapted to meet the evolving needs of travelers worldwide.
National’s Global Network and Accessibility
One of the strongest advantages of National Car Rental is its extensive global presence. The company operates in over 60 countries, offering car rentals at thousands of locations, including major international airports, downtown areas, and suburban neighborhoods. Whether you’re traveling across the United States or exploring new destinations abroad, chances are you’ll find a National location nearby. This widespread accessibility makes it a top choice for international business travelers, frequent flyers, and vacationers looking for a seamless car rental experience wherever they go.
The brand’s focus on airport convenience is especially important. Most of National’s airport locations are positioned for quick access, often located directly in the terminal or just a short shuttle ride away. This allows travelers to step off a plane and into their rental car within minutes. National understands the importance of time and has built its services around making car rentals as fast and stress-free as possible.
Additionally, National’s international service is highly standardized. Regardless of where you rent—whether it’s New York, London, or Dubai—you’ll experience similar procedures, booking options, and vehicle quality. The brand also partners with local rental companies in regions where it doesn’t have direct control, but it still maintains strict quality assurance policies. Combined with multilingual support and 24/7 customer service, National’s global reach ensures that customers receive a consistent, professional, and reliable experience no matter where they travel.
Emerald Club: Loyalty Program That Truly Rewards Travelers
One of the most valuable features that sets National Car Rental apart is its loyalty program, the Emerald Club. Designed to reward frequent renters, this program goes beyond the typical point-accumulation model by offering tangible benefits that make a real difference in the rental experience. When travelers join the Emerald Club—which is free to enroll—they unlock a new level of convenience and control. Members can skip the rental counter entirely at participating locations and head straight to the lot, where they choose their own vehicle from the Emerald Aisle without waiting in line or completing extra paperwork.
The Emerald Aisle is a particularly innovative concept. Customers reserve a midsize car, but upon arrival, they are free to choose from a selection of vehicles in that category—or even larger ones—at no extra cost. This flexibility allows travelers to upgrade without paying more, depending on availability. It’s a benefit that offers not only comfort but also empowerment, as customers get to pick the car that best fits their travel plans or personal style.
The Emerald Club has multiple tiers. As members rent more frequently, they progress to Executive and Executive Elite levels, which bring additional perks such as guaranteed upgrades, free rental days, faster rewards accumulation, and access to premium vehicles. For business travelers who rent often, the Emerald Club is especially valuable, streamlining their journey and providing rewards that truly reflect their loyalty. The ease of earning and redeeming free days, combined with priority service, makes the Emerald Club one of the best loyalty programs in the rental industry.
Fleet Diversity and Vehicle Quality
Another reason why travelers choose National Car Rental is the impressive range and quality of its vehicle fleet. National understands that not all travelers have the same needs, and so it offers a wide selection of cars to suit various preferences, purposes, and budgets. Whether you need a compact car for city navigation, a spacious SUV for a family road trip, a luxury sedan for a business meeting, or a rugged truck for hauling equipment, National ensures that there’s a suitable vehicle ready for you.
Each car in National’s fleet undergoes strict maintenance and cleaning procedures to ensure safety, reliability, and comfort. The company places high value on vehicle condition, and cars are regularly inspected before being handed over to customers. This attention to detail helps avoid the common frustrations often associated with rental cars, such as cleanliness issues or mechanical problems. National also keeps its fleet updated with new models, allowing travelers to enjoy modern driving features like Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, advanced safety systems, and enhanced fuel efficiency.
Additionally, National has made efforts to include eco-friendly options in its fleet. Many locations now offer hybrid and fuel-efficient cars for environmentally conscious customers. These vehicles are not only better for the planet but also help customers save on fuel costs. Whether you’re looking for performance, space, luxury, or green alternatives, National’s diverse fleet ensures that every traveler drives away satisfied.
How to Book, Save Money, and Enjoy a Seamless Experience
Booking a car with National Car Rental is straightforward and optimized for user convenience. Customers can reserve vehicles via the official website https://www.nationalcar.com or through the National mobile app, which is available on both Android and iOS. The booking process allows users to select pickup and return locations, specify dates and times, choose vehicle categories, and apply discount codes or Emerald Club rewards.
To maximize savings, travelers should consider booking in advance, especially during holiday seasons or in busy destinations. Prices tend to rise closer to the pickup date, so early reservations can secure better deals. Joining the Emerald Club also helps reduce costs over time through free rental days, upgrades, and exclusive member offers. Another tip is to avoid unnecessary add-ons like GPS or extra insurance if your credit card or smartphone already provides those services.
Once the reservation is made, the check-in process is often quick and contactless. At participating locations, Emerald Club members can walk directly to the lot, select their vehicle, and drive off—skipping lines altogether. Returns are equally efficient, with many locations offering after-hours drop-off and app-based vehicle check-in. With this emphasis on speed, savings, and personalization, National ensures that your car rental experience feels less like a transaction and more like part of a premium journey.
Final Thoughts: Why National Car Rental Continues to Lead
In the highly competitive car rental industry, National Car Rental continues to distinguish itself by offering more than just vehicles. It delivers a well-rounded experience focused on speed, reliability, comfort, and loyalty. From its customer-friendly Emerald Club to its extensive global network and top-quality fleet, National has earned the trust of both casual renters and seasoned travelers. Its tech-driven processes and sustainability efforts only add to its modern appeal.
Whether you’re flying in for a business trip, planning a cross-country vacation, or simply need a dependable car for a few days, National provides the tools and support to make your journey smoother. It’s not just about renting a car—it’s about enhancing your entire travel experience. As you plan your next trip in 2025, National Car Rental remains a top-tier choice that blends convenience with confidence at every mile.
