We understand that unforeseen events happen, but in this case it is important to know: it is not possible to change the name of the reservation holder or the main driver after the reservation has been issued. This rule exists to ensure security and that the driver's documents are always in accordance with the reservation.
Can I change the name of the main driver on my booking?
It’s not possible to change the name after the booking has been issued. Any change to the name of the main driver requires cancelling the booking and creating a new one.
This applies in all cases, such as:
Correcting a typo in the first or last name.
Completing a name that was entered partially.
Transferring the booking to another person (such as a spouse, friend, or relative).
Important: The new booking will be subject to availability and to the terms and conditions in effect at the time of issue.
What can I do if I need to change the name on my reservation?
The most practical way to solve this is to cancel the current reservation and make a new one with the correct details.
Here's how it works:
Cancel your current reservation: you can do this directly in your Rentcars account or with the help of our support team. If you have already paid, the amount can be refunded (according to the cancellation rules).
Make a new reservation with the correct name: create the reservation again. Just remember that the price and availability may be different.
This is usually necessary, for example, when:
The original holder does not meet the reservation requirements, such as having a valid credit card or a physical driver's license. Click here and see our article about requirements.
There are differences between the documents presented, such as different nationalities in documents.
It is necessary to transfer the reservation to another person who meets all the requirements.
How does a refund work in case of a reservation cancellation?
If you canceled a reservation paid online:
The refund will be total, as long as the cancellation is made within the rental company's deadline (for example: up to 1 hour before pickup or up to 48 hours before, depending on the policy).
It's worth remembering that each rental company has its own rules. For example: Europcar may retain money for cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance; Avis and Budget retain the full amount in case of a no-show; the Enterprise Group (Alamo, National, and Enterprise) retains 100% for a no-show or for cancellations made less than 1 hour in advance; Sixt applies full retention in case of a no-show. Check out our article on the retention policies of car rental companies.
The time for the amount to be refunded depends on the payment method and your financial institution.
Attention: risk of 20% to 100% charge retention (Turn-Down) due to data discrepancies at pick-up
If, at the time of pick-up, the first and last name of the main driver do not exactly match the document presented, the rental company may refuse to release the vehicle.
In these cases, even if you appear at the counter at the correct time, the rental company may apply a policy equivalent to a no-show, resulting in a retention of 20% to 100% of the amount paid, according to each company’s internal rules.
Examples of discrepancies that may lead to refusal and retention:
Incomplete or abbreviated name;
Missing last name;
Typographical errors;
Reversed order of first and last name;
Attempt to change the main driver at the counter.
To avoid any risk of refusal or retention, make sure that the main driver’s details are identical to the document before completing the reservation.
Important tips
Always check the details before completing the reservation to avoid unnecessary cancellations.
Check out our article on cancellation and refund.
If you need help, count on our support team through official channels. This way, you ensure a smooth and surprise-free experience when picking up your car.
How to contact the Help Center?
Need to speak with us by phone? Follow these steps to speed up your assistance:
Call our Help Center
Calls: +55 (41) 4042 1479
2. Have your information ready
Booking code
Driver’s details (name, email, date of birth)
3. Call and select the “Support” option
You’ll be directed straight to the responsible team.
Tip: If it’s outside service hours, you can use the online chat on our website and talk to Carol, our virtual assistant, available 24/7.