Renting Vehicles for University Business
Where to Rent
To minimize your personal liability and related costs to the University, when you are traveling on University business and renting a vehicle, you should always use one of the car rental companies contracted with the State of California.
The State of California, Department of General Services negotiates contracts on an annual (calendar year) basis. The State's contract not only assures clean and well maintained vehicles but also limits the University's liability as well as your own. The State's contract includes comprehensive, collision, loss of use, and liability coverage at no cost to the renter or the University.
Additional information on State contracted car rental companies
How to Rent
When making your rental reservations with one of the car rental companies contracted with the State of California, you must:
- Specify the State Corporate ID
- Pay with a University provided Government American Express Card. A Government American Express Card application can be obtained from the Bursar’s Office (BH 155).
Personal Liability
If you rent a vehicle from a non-State contracted company and are involved in an accident, you can be held personally responsible for all costs associated with the loss of or damage to vehicles and personal injury to others.
If you rent a vehicle from a State contracted company and have not identified the State Corporate ID Number when renting the vehicle or have not paid for the rental with a Government American Express Card, you can be held personally responsible for all costs associated with the loss of or damage to vehicles and personal injury to others.
The coverage provided by the State negotiated contract does not apply if you are under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances, or if non-authorized drivers are operating the vehicle.