Having an American Express Platinum Card unlocks premium status with Hertz, specifically complimentary enrollment in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards "Five Star" tier. For 2026, this status provides several high-value perks: you get priority service at the counter (skipping the line), a one-car-class upgrade (subject to availability), and a 4-hour grace period on returns, which can save you a full day's rental fee if you're running late. Additionally, Amex Platinum members receive an exclusive discount code (CDP #211762) that provides up to 15% off standard rates and a 25% discount on the Hertz Prestige Collection. Perhaps the most underrated benefit is the free additional driver for a spouse or civil partner. These benefits, combined with the card's primary rental insurance in certain regions, make it a powerful tool for frequent travelers who want a faster, more flexible, and more affordable car rental experience.
The American Express Platinum Card offers several valuable benefits with Hertz, primarily through the Platinum Card’s Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) and The Hotel Collection programs, as well as through Amex’s partnership with Hertz. Here’s what you get:
1. Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Elite Status
- Complimentary Five-Star® Status (second-highest tier in Hertz’s loyalty program).
- Benefits include:
- Priority service at select locations.
- Faster reservations and express pickup.
- Vehicle upgrades (subject to availability).
- Earn more points on rentals (1,000 bonus points per rental).
2. Discounts & Benefits
- Upgrade Discounts: Potential for one-class upgrades (e.g., midsize to full-size).
- Additional Driver Fee Waiver: Free additional driver (in the U.S. for rentals booked through Hertz).
- Exclusive Offers: Occasionally, Amex offers statement credits or bonus points for Hertz rentals.
3. Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) & The Hotel Collection
- If you book a qualifying prepaid hotel stay through Amex Travel, you may receive Hertz benefits like:
- Daily rental discounts (varies by location).
- Waived underage driver fees (for drivers aged 20-24 in the U.S.).
4. Amex Platinum Travel Benefits
- Earn 5x Membership Rewards® points on prepaid rentals booked through Amex Travel.
- Premium Car Rental Protection (secondary coverage, unless primary is selected for a fee).
How to Activate Hertz Benefits?
- Enroll in Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and link your Amex Platinum Card.
- Book through Amex Travel or Hertz.com while logged into your Gold Plus account.
Comparison to Other Credit Cards
- The Amex Platinum does not include free rental days (unlike the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which offers Primary CDW).
- However, the Five-Star Elite Status provides better perks than most competitors.
For the best experience, always book directly through Hertz while logged into your Gold Plus account to maximize benefits.
Would you like details on how to stack these with other Amex offers?