Hertz Status Match: How to Upgrade Your Status
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If you already hold elite status with another car rental company and want to learn more about the Hertz status match program, eligible members can apply to upgrade to the corresponding tier of Hertz Gold+ Rewards, provided they meet the program’s requirements. This allows you to unlock additional elite benefits without first having to meet the usual rental requirements.
In this article, I will walk you through how the Hertz status match program works, which loyalty programs are eligible for a status match, how to submit your application and supporting documents, and the key considerations and requirements you should know before applying. Let’s dive in!
What Is Hertz Status Match?
The Hertz status match program allows eligible members of selected competing car rental loyalty programs to apply for an equivalent membership tier in Hertz Gold+ Rewards. Hertz Gold+ Rewards has three membership tiers, as follows:
- Gold: Free to join and serves as the entry-level membership tier.
- Five Star: The mid-tier membership level, offering additional bonus points and vehicle upgrade benefits.
- President’s Circle: The highest membership tier, providing upgrade benefits and additional car rental privileges.
The key advantage of this status match program is that Hertz evaluates eligible partner programs and their corresponding membership tiers. The final outcome is subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable program.
You can review the current requirements on the official Hertz Status Match page.
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Which Programs Are Eligible for Hertz Status Match?
Hertz does not always publish a definitive list of eligible programs and reserves the right to decline any status match request. The following programs have been reported as successful matches, but eligibility depends on the specific program and your current membership tier.
1. Rental Car Loyalty Programs
The following rental car loyalty programs may qualify for a Hertz status match:
- National Emerald Club: Executive or Executive Elite
- Avis Preferred: Plus, First, or President’s Club
- SIXT: SIXT Platinum (and sometimes Gold)
- Enterprise Plus: Platinum
2. Hotel Loyalty Programs
Top-tier hotel elite status may also be considered for a Hertz status match:
- Marriott Bonvoy: Titanium Elite or Ambassador Elite
- Hilton Honors: Hilton Diamond
- World of Hyatt: Globalist
- IHG One Rewards: Diamond Elite
3. Airline Loyalty Programs
Some high-tier airline elite memberships may also be eligible:
- Delta SkyMiles: Platinum Medallion or Diamond Medallion
- United MileagePlus: Premier Platinum or Premier 1K
- American Airlines AAdvantage: Platinum Pro or Executive Platinum
- Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan: MVP Gold or higher
Related articles:
- How to Get SIXT Diamond Fast Track
- SIXT Platinum Fast Track: VIP Hotel Flights
- How to Get Avis President’s Club Fast Track
- Avis Preferred: Status Levels, Perks & How to Join
- How to Get Enterprise Platinum Fast Track
- How to Choose the Best Car Rental Company
Which Hertz Status Can You Receive?
The Hertz status you receive depends on the qualifying membership tier and the applicable matching rules. Higher-tier status with another travel program may improve your chances of receiving Hertz Five Star or President’s Circle status. However, the exact match is not guaranteed, so confirm the current requirements before applying.
Which Memberships Usually Do Not Qualify?
Lower or mid-tier memberships are generally less likely to qualify, including:
- Mid-tier hotel status: Marriott Bonvoy Gold or Platinum and Hilton Honors Gold
- Mid-tier airline status: Delta Silver or Gold Medallion and United Premier Silver or Gold
- Credit-card-only status: Membership obtained solely through a credit card may not always be accepted. For example, this may apply to Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite or Hilton Honors Diamond status obtained through a credit card.
- Programs without an established matching pathway: Status from programs such as Choice Privileges or Wyndham Rewards Diamond may not be accepted.
These are general observations rather than guaranteed exclusions. Hertz may assess applications individually, and its requirements can change.
How to Apply for Hertz Status Match
Before applying, review the latest requirements on the official Hertz website and prepare proof of your current elite status.
For the most accurate information, check the competitor selection and requirements on the Hertz Status Match application page.
Hertz Status Match Requirements
Before submitting an application, make sure you meet the main eligibility requirements.
1. Join Hertz Gold+ Rewards
Before applying for a Hertz status match, you must already have a Hertz Gold+ Rewards account. Visit the official Hertz Gold+ website to complete the free registration. Make sure your name and account details are accurate, as this information will be used to verify your identity and membership during the application process. Therefore, be sure to provide genuine and reliable information.
2. Hold Eligible Status With Another Rental Company
You must hold valid elite status with another competing car rental company. Simply having an account is not sufficient, as Hertz may require proof of your current membership tier. Before applying, make sure your existing status meets the current eligibility requirements.
3. Prepare Proof of Your Existing Status
You must provide proof of your current elite status that qualifies for a status match. The following documents may be required:
- A copy of your current membership card.
- A recent monthly statement showing your current membership status.
- A personalized welcome email confirming your membership tier.
- Screenshots of your current membership profile and other relevant supporting information.
Your supporting documents must clearly display your name and current membership status. If the documents provided are insufficient to verify your eligibility, Hertz may request additional information.
4. Check Your Previous Status Match History
Hertz states that its status match program is generally intended for members who have never participated in a previous status match promotion or whose last participation was at least five years ago. This restriction is particularly important if you have previously successfully matched your membership status with Hertz. Therefore, be sure to review the rules carefully before submitting your application.
How to Apply for Hertz Status Match
The application process is relatively straightforward. The entire process will take approximately several minutes. Please prepare a screenshot or PDF file of your current elite membership.
Step 1: Create a Hertz Gold+ Rewards Account (If You Don’t Already Have One)
If you don’t already have an account, visit hertz.com → Rewards → Join. The basic membership tier is free and takes effect immediately. You need an account before you can apply for a status match.
Step 2: Verify Your Existing Elite Status
Contact your current car rental loyalty program to verify your elite membership and confirm that it meets Hertz’s current status match eligibility requirements.
Step 3: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Collect or take screenshots of documents showing your current membership status. Make sure the information is clear and legible, and that the name matches the details on your Hertz account. Your documents should also show your current membership tier and its expiration date. Status that expires within the next 60 days is generally not accepted.
If you can access a PDF statement from your membership dashboard (Marriott and Delta, for example, allow members to download status statements), use that document whenever possible. It is generally more reliable and less likely to be challenged than a screenshot.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Visit the official Hertz Status Match page.
Hertz currently instructs applicants to send an email to digitalmarketing@hertz.com using the email address associated with their Gold+ account.
The required information includes:
- Your first and last name.
- Your Hertz Gold+ Rewards membership number.
- Proof of your current valid elite status with a competing loyalty program, including your membership tier.
- Your supporting documents as attachments.
Please refer to the official Hertz website for the latest document and information requirements, as the application process may change.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation
In general, most status matches may take up to two business days for the new membership tier to appear in your Gold+ account. After submitting your application, keep an eye on your account status.
Higher-tier President’s Circle matches may take up to one week to process. Once your match is approved, you will receive a confirmation email.
If your status has not been updated after the stated processing period, contact Hertz through its official customer service channels. Do not assume your application has been approved until the updated status appears in your account or you receive official confirmation.
Step 6: Log In to hertz.com to Verify Your Status Match
Once your status match is successful, your account should display your new membership tier. You can also create a test booking to check the available rates and benefits associated with your new status. For example, if you have been matched to Five Star, you should see the applicable Five Star rates and benefits.
What Benefits Do You Get After a Hertz Status Match?
The benefits depend on the tier you receive and the rental location. The two main elite tiers are Five Star and President’s Circle.
Hertz Five Star Benefits
Compared with the entry-level Gold membership tier, Five Star members enjoy additional benefits.
The key benefits include:
- 25% Bonus Points: Earn 1.25 points for every $1 spent on qualifying car rentals, subject to the applicable program rules.
- Earn Points Toward Two Free Rental Days: Accumulate points that can be redeemed for two days of free car rental.
- Potential Vehicle Upgrades: Eligible upgrades may be available at participating locations, subject to vehicle availability and other restrictions.
- Free Additional Driver: Enjoy the benefit of an additional driver at no extra cost, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
- Expanded Vehicle Selection: Access a wider selection of vehicles at locations offering the relevant Five Star or Ultimate Choice services.
- Member Convenience Benefits: Access eligible Gold+ features, including priority pick-up service at participating locations.
- Up to 10% Off Year-Round: Enjoy discounts of up to 10% throughout the year, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
Hertz President’s Circle Benefits
President’s Circle is the highest tier available through Hertz’s standard status match program.
Its key benefits include:
- 50% Bonus Points: Earn 1.5 points for every US$1 spent on qualifying rentals.
- Earn Points Toward Two Free Rental Days: Accumulate points that can be redeemed for two days of free car rental.
- Vehicle Upgrades: Guaranteed one-car-class upgrades may be available at participating locations, subject to program terms and exclusions.
- Wider Vehicle Selection: Enjoy exclusive President’s Circle vehicle selection through the Ultimate Choice service at participating locations.
- Dedicated Support: Access the exclusive President’s Circle customer service hotline.
- Free Additional Driver: Enjoy an additional driver at no extra cost, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
- Up to 10% Off Year-Round: Enjoy discounts of up to 10% throughout the year, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
For full details, see the Hertz Gold+ member benefits and Hertz Gold+ Rewards FAQ.
How Long Does Hertz Status Match Last?
One of the most important details to verify before applying is the membership validity period.
According to Hertz’s published status match terms, the matched membership is valid through December 31 of the second calendar year following the year in which the match is approved. For example, if your status match application is approved in October 2026, your matched status will generally remain valid through December 31, 2028.
If you want to maintain Five Star status after your matched membership expires, you must meet the qualifying requirements to retain your tier. Members who do not meet the requirements will be downgraded to Gold.
The requirements may include:
- Completing four rentals during the match year (the “challenge” requirement, which is not always mandatory but is generally required); or
- Meeting the standard requalification criteria during the regular elite membership year, such as completing seven rentals or accumulating 20 rental days.
Some status matches offer only a 60–90-day trial period, with an option to extend the status after completing two to three rentals. Read your approval email carefully, as the terms and conditions may vary.
Hertz Status Match vs Earning Status Normally
Is it better to request a status match or earn Hertz status through regular rentals?
The answer depends on your existing loyalty memberships and how frequently you rent cars.
| Comparison | Status Match | Normal Qualification |
| Main requirement | Eligible status with a competing program | Qualifying Hertz rentals or spending |
| Application review | Required | Qualification is assessed under program rules |
| Guaranteed approval | No | Only if the applicable requirements are met |
| Best for | Travelers who already have competing elite status | Travelers who frequently rent from Hertz |
Whether a Hertz status match or earning status through regular rentals is the better option depends on your individual circumstances. If you complete three qualifying rentals or spend a total of $1,000 on qualifying rentals within a calendar year, you can upgrade to Five Star status. To reach President’s Circle, you need to complete 15 qualifying rentals or spend a total of $3,000 on qualifying rentals. These spending thresholds exclude taxes and fees. If you already hold eligible status with another rental car loyalty program, applying for a status match may be the easier route. If you rent with Hertz frequently but do not have any other qualifying status, earning elite status through the regular program may be more practical.
Fortunately, there is another alternative: VIP Hotel Flights offers a fast-track option to help you obtain President’s Circle status in just 1–3 days, with membership valid for one year. There is no status challenge or need to accumulate rental nights or complete qualifying rental requirements. For just a few dozen dollars, you can fast-track your upgrade and save both time and money. This can be a convenient alternative for travelers who are short on time and want to save money without going through the usual qualification process.
Can Marriott Bonvoy Members Get Hertz Status?
Absolutely. Marriott Bonvoy members can obtain Hertz elite status through an alternative route via the partnership between Marriott Bonvoy and Hertz. According to official information published in April 2026, eligible members may qualify for the following benefits:
- Marriott Ambassador Elite: Eligible members can receive a status match to Hertz President’s Circle.
- Marriott Titanium Elite: Eligible members can qualify for a status match to Hertz Five Star.
- Marriott Platinum Elite: Members can access a fast-track route to Hertz Five Star after completing seven qualifying rentals within 12 months.
This partnership has its own registration process and eligibility requirements. Do not confuse it with Hertz’s standard status match program for elite members of competing rental car companies.
For the latest requirements, visit Marriott’s official Hertz status match and fast-track guide.
If you already have Marriott Bonvoy elite status, checking this partnership may be worthwhile before applying through another route.
Related articles:
- Marriott Cobalt: What You Need to Know!
- Upgrade to Marriott Platinum: Fast Methods
- Fast Track to Marriott Ambassador Elite
- Fast Track to Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite
FAQ
Does Hertz Offer a Status Match?
Yes. Hertz offers a status match for eligible members of selected competing car rental loyalty programs. The membership tier you receive depends on your existing elite status and the current status match rules.
Can I Get Hertz President’s Circle Through a Status Match?
Yes. President’s Circle is the highest tier available through Hertz’s standard status match program. However, approval depends on your current valid elite status and the applicable terms and conditions.
Is Hertz Status Match Free?
Hertz’s published status match process does not list a separate application fee. Hertz Gold+ Rewards membership is free to join, but you will still need to pay the usual car rental charges and any other applicable fees.
How Long Does Hertz Status Match Take?
It may take up to two business days for your new membership tier to appear in your Gold+ account. Higher-tier President’s Circle matches may take around five days to process, although processing times can vary.
Can I Apply for Hertz Status Match More Than Once?
Generally, Hertz limits its standard status match offer to members who have never participated in a previous status match promotion or whose last participation was at least five years ago. Check the current eligibility requirements before submitting another application.
Can I Match Directly to President’s Circle?
It depends on your existing status. Travelers who hold top-tier status in an airline or hotel loyalty program, such as United Premier 1K, Delta Diamond Medallion, Marriott Ambassador Elite, or Hilton Diamond with a substantial number of lifetime hotel nights, may have a better chance of qualifying for President’s Circle.
In many cases, however, applicants may only receive Five Star status initially and need to qualify through additional rentals or a subsequent status match to reach President’s Circle.
What Happens If I Successfully Match My Status but Don’t Rent a Car During the Match Year?
Once your matched status expires, your membership may be downgraded to Gold in Hertz Gold+ Rewards if you do not meet the applicable requirements to retain your elite tier.
Is Hertz Status Match Worth It?
In my opinion, absolutely. Whether you are traveling long distances, taking an international trip, or traveling for business, rental cars can be an essential part of getting around. Even if you only benefit from priority pick-up or a vehicle upgrade once, spending five minutes submitting a status match application can be worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
If you hold elite status in another car rental, hotel, or airline loyalty program—and most frequent business travelers do—there is little reason not to spend five minutes applying for Hertz Five Star status. A Hertz status match can be a practical way to unlock higher-tier rental car benefits.
Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare documentation that clearly proves your current elite status, and submit your application through Hertz’s official process. Once your status match is approved, you can enjoy the rental benefits associated with Five Star or President’s Circle status, including potential vehicle upgrades and priority services that can make your rental experience more convenient.
If you also hold Marriott Bonvoy status, consider exploring the partnership between Marriott Bonvoy and Hertz as an alternative route.
If you would rather avoid spending time on a status match or earning elite status through regular rentals, VIP Hotel Flights offers another fast-track option to help you register and upgrade without completing a status challenge.
In my view, these are some of the most effective ways to unlock valuable elite status benefits in the travel industry.
