Avis customer service phone number and what to expect
Avis's main customer service line is 1-800-331-1212. This number handles reservations, changes to existing bookings, roadside information, and general questions. Wait times vary by time of day and season — early morning and weekday calls typically move faster than evening or weekend calls.
When you call, have your reservation confirmation number ready if you're calling about an existing booking. If you're making a new reservation, the agent will ask for your travel dates, pickup location, and driver's license information. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Avis also operates a separate line for roadside information at 1-800-354-2112 if you break down or have an emergency while driving a rental vehicle. This line is also available around the clock.
Key Takeaways
- The main Avis customer service number is 1-800-331-1212 and handles reservations, changes, and questions 24/7.
- Have your reservation confirmation number ready before calling about an existing booking to speed up the process.
- Call 1-800-354-2112 for roadside information if you have an emergency or breakdown while driving an Avis rental.
- Early morning and weekday calls typically have shorter wait times than evening or weekend calls.
- You can also reach Avis through their website chat or mobile app if you prefer not to call.
When to call versus using other contact methods
Phone calls work best when you need an when ready answer or have a complex situation — a reservation that needs multiple changes, a question about insurance coverage, or a problem that happened during your rental. An agent can walk through options with you in real time.
For straightforward tasks like checking your reservation details or making a straightforward change, the Avis website or mobile app is often faster. You can view your booking, add a driver, extend your rental period, or upgrade your car class without waiting on hold. The app also lets you unlock your car at pickup without visiting the counter.
If you're calling from outside the United States, Avis has regional numbers for different countries. Check your rental confirmation or the Avis website for the correct number for your location.
What information to have ready before you call
Gathering details before you dial saves time on the call. If you're modifying a reservation, have your confirmation number (a six-character code sent to your email). If you're making a new reservation, have your driver's license number, the dates you need the car, and your preferred pickup location.
For roadside information calls, tell the agent your exact location, what happened to the vehicle, and whether anyone is injured. If the car won't start or you have a flat tire, the agent will dispatch help or arrange a replacement vehicle depending on Avis's coverage in your area.
If you're calling about a charge on your bill or a damage claim, have your rental agreement number and a description of what you're disputing. Agents can often resolve billing questions on the spot if you have the details in front of you.
Common reasons people call Avis
The most frequent calls are to make or change a reservation. You might call to add an additional driver, extend your rental by a few days, upgrade to a larger vehicle, or cancel altogether. Agents can usually process these changes when ready and send you an updated confirmation.
People also call to ask about insurance options, fuel policies, or what's included in their rate. Avis offers several insurance packages — some overlap with your personal car insurance or credit card coverage, so understanding what you already have matters before you buy their plan.
Damage disputes and billing questions generate calls too. If you were charged for damage you don't think you caused, or if a charge appears on your bill that you don't recognize, calling lets you discuss it with someone who can review your rental file and potentially adjust the charge.
Tips for shorter wait times
Call during off-peak hours — early morning (before 8 a.m.) or late evening (after 7 p.m.) typically have shorter queues than midday. Weekday calls move faster than weekend calls, especially Friday through Sunday when leisure travelers are renting cars.
Have your confirmation number visible before you call. When the automated system asks for it, entering it correctly routes you to the right department faster than explaining your situation to the first agent who picks up.
If the line is busy, you can request a callback instead of waiting on hold. The agent will call you back when it's your turn, letting you do other things while you wait. This option is usually available through the automated menu at the start of the call.
Alternative ways to reach Avis
The Avis website (avis.com) has a live chat option during business hours. Chat is often faster than phone for straightforward questions and doesn't require you to wait on hold. You can also email Avis through their website contact form, though email responses typically take 24 to 48 hours.
The Avis mobile app lets you manage your reservation without calling — you can view your booking, make changes, add drivers, and unlock your car at pickup. The app also has a help section with answers to common questions.
If you rented through a travel website like Expedia or Kayak, you may need to contact that site first to make changes, since they hold the original booking. However, you can still call Avis directly using your confirmation number, and they can often make changes on their end.
What to do if you can't reach Avis by phone
If you're calling during peak times and can't get through, try the callback option instead of staying on hold. You'll get a call back when an agent is available, usually within an hour or two depending on call volume.
If you're having trouble with the automated system, stay on the line and press zero repeatedly — this usually routes you to a live agent instead of cycling through the menu options.
For urgent issues like a breakdown or accident, the roadside information line (1-800-354-2112) prioritizes emergency calls and typically answers faster than the main line. If you're in a dangerous situation, call 911 first, then contact Avis once you're safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a charge for calling Avis customer service?
No. Calling 1-800-331-1212 is toll-free from anywhere in the United States. If you're calling from outside the U.S., standard international rates explore — check your phone plan before calling from abroad.
Can I make a reservation over the phone, or do I have to use the website?
You can make a reservation by phone. Call 1-800-331-1212 and an agent will walk you through the options, answer questions about insurance and fuel, and complete your booking. Some people prefer this because they can ask questions in real time rather than navigating the website.
What if I need to reach Avis after I've already picked up my rental car?
Call the same number: 1-800-331-1212. If you have an emergency or breakdown, call 1-800-354-2112 for roadside information. Both lines can help with issues that come up during your rental period.
How long does it usually take to get through to an agent?
Wait times vary widely depending on the time of day and season. During slow periods, you might reach someone in two to five minutes. During peak travel times, waits can stretch to 15 to 30 minutes or longer. Requesting a callback instead of holding can be faster.
Can I change my reservation by phone if I booked through a travel website?
You can call Avis directly at 1-800-331-1212 with your confirmation number, and they can often make changes on their end. However, some travel websites require you to modify through their site first. If you're unsure, call Avis — they can tell you whether the change needs to go through the original booking site.