About National Car Rental
National Car Rental is a premium rental car brand popular with business travelers, known for its fast service and the Emerald Aisle, where members choose their own car. National operates at major airports across the U.S. and worldwide as part of Enterprise Mobility.
Latest National Promotions, Discounts & Savings
National's savings are built around its Emerald Club program and periodic loyalty promotions. Here are the best ways to save right now:
Emerald Aisle Free Upgrades
Emerald Club members who reserve a midsize car can walk to the Emerald Aisle and choose any car there while paying the midsize rate. This frequently results in a free upgrade to a larger sedan or SUV.
Free Rental Days
Members earn rental credits on qualifying rentals that can be redeemed for free rental days. Elite members earn credits faster and receive additional benefits.
ONE TWO FREE Promotions
National periodically runs its ONE TWO FREE promotion, which awards a free rental day for every two qualifying rentals. The most recent version ran in spring 2026, and promotional free days from that offer expire on December 31, 2026, so use them soon.
Partner Points and Miles
Emerald Club members can choose to earn airline miles or hotel points on rentals instead of rental credits, adding value to every trip.
National Special Discounts: Military, Government & More
Military and Government Rates
National offers government and military rates for eligible travelers on official and leisure travel at participating locations. Bring valid ID when you pick up your car.
Corporate Rates
Many companies have negotiated National contracts. Using your corporate account number can unlock lower rates and included insurance for business travel.
Student and Senior Discounts
National does not currently advertise dedicated student or senior discounts. Emerald Club perks and corporate rates are the best ways to save.
More Ways to Save at National
Join Emerald Club for Free
Enrollment is free and immediately gives you counter-free pickups, Emerald Aisle access and credits toward free days.
Reach Executive Status
Emerald Club Executive and Executive Elite members enjoy guaranteed upgrades and access to the Executive Area at many airports, which often includes premium vehicles.
Book Midsize
Since Emerald Aisle pricing is based on the midsize rate, booking a midsize car is usually the smartest way to get the most vehicle for your money.
Avoid Extra Fees
Refuel before returning, use credit card coverage when appropriate and return the car on time to avoid extra charges.
Best Time to Book
Rates tend to rise near holidays and major events, so book early with free cancellation and check again closer to your trip.
How to Book National for the Best Value
Sign in to your Emerald Club account on National's website or app, enter your pickup location and dates and add your corporate account number if you have one. Reserve a midsize car to take advantage of Emerald Aisle choice. Review included coverage and fees before confirming your reservation, and add your Emerald Club number to every booking so you earn rental credits.
Why Rent with National?
National is built for travelers who value speed and choice. Emerald Club members skip the counter, walk to the aisle and choose their own car, often driving away in an upgrade at the midsize price. National's large airport presence and well-maintained fleet make it a top choice for frequent business travelers.
Emerald Club Tiers
Members start at the base level and can reach Executive and Executive Elite status by renting more frequently. Higher tiers unlock guaranteed upgrades, faster free-day earning and access to premium vehicle selections at many airports.
Tips for Saving More
Always book midsize to use Emerald Aisle, use corporate rates for business travel, register for National's loyalty promotions whenever they launch, redeem free days before they expire and return the car on time with a full tank.
Quick National Car Rental Savings Checklist
Before you place your next National Car Rental order, run through this simple checklist to make sure you are paying the lowest possible price. First, check this page for the latest National Car Rental promotions and compare them with any sale prices on the site. Second, see whether you qualify for a special discount, such as military, student, teacher, senior or member pricing, and remember that most offers cannot be combined. Third, sign up for National Car Rental emails or the loyalty program to unlock welcome offers, birthday perks and early access to sales. Fourth, review shipping thresholds, return windows and any exclusions so there are no surprises at checkout. Always add your Emerald Club number.
Final Verdict: Is National Car Rental Worth It?
For shoppers who plan ahead, National Car Rental offers strong value through its current promotions, member perks and seasonal sales. By combining the best available deal with smart timing around major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you can enjoy the quality National Car Rental is known for while keeping more money in your pocket. Bookmark this page, as we update National Car Rental deals regularly so you always have the newest savings in one place.
