Avis customer service phone numbers by situation
Avis has different phone lines depending on what you need. For general reservations and questions about existing bookings, call 1-800-331-1212. This is the main number for most customer service requests and works during business hours.
If you are calling from outside the United States, Avis operates in over 165 countries. You can find the local phone number for your country on the Avis website under "Contact Us" — the number varies by location. Some international locations have their own dedicated lines; others route through regional hubs.
For roadside information while you have an active rental, call the number on your rental agreement or contract. This line is staffed 24 hours and connects you to emergency support for breakdowns, lockouts, or accidents. Do not use the main reservation line for roadside emergencies.
Key Takeaways
- The main Avis customer service number is 1-800-331-1212 for reservations, changes, and general questions about your booking.
- Roadside information has a separate 24-hour line printed on your rental agreement, not the main customer service number.
- International callers should check the Avis website for the phone number in their country, as numbers vary by region.
- Wait times are typically shorter early in the morning on weekdays; evenings and weekends tend to be busier.
- Having your confirmation number or driver's license ready before you call speeds up the process.
What information to have ready before calling
Avis representatives move faster when you have your details prepared. Gather your reservation confirmation number (found in your email confirmation or on the Avis website), your driver's license, and the credit card you used to book. If you are calling about an existing rental, also have the rental agreement number if you can find it.
If you are calling about a problem with a car — damage, mechanical issue, or missing equipment — have the location where you rented, the date of rental, and a description of the problem ready. This prevents the representative from having to ask follow-up questions while you search for information.
When to call versus using the website or app
Avis lets you make many changes online without calling. You can modify your reservation, add a driver, extend your rental, or view your booking details through the Avis website or mobile app. These changes often process when ready and do not require speaking to anyone.
Call instead if you need to cancel a reservation (some cancellations must be done by phone depending on your rate), if you have questions about your rate or charges, if you want to add special equipment like a GPS or car seat, or if something went wrong with your rental. The phone line is also the right choice if the website is not working or if you need to speak to someone about a dispute.
Wait times and best times to call
Avis call wait times vary by day and hour. Early mornings on weekdays — between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. — typically have shorter waits. Evenings after 5 p.m. and weekends tend to be busier, with wait times sometimes reaching 15 to 30 minutes or longer during peak travel seasons.
If you are planning a rental for an upcoming trip, call at least a few days before your travel date rather than the day before or the day of. This gives you time to make changes if needed and avoids the rush of last-minute calls.
What happens after you call
When you reach a representative, they will verify your identity using your confirmation number and driver's license information. They will then help with your request — whether that is making a change, answering a question, or resolving a problem. Most calls take 5 to 15 minutes depending on the complexity of your issue.
If you need to dispute a charge or file a complaint about your rental experience, the representative can start that process over the phone. You may be asked to provide additional information in writing, but the initial report is documented during the call. Keep the reference number they give you for your records.
Alternatives if you cannot reach someone by phone
Avis offers other ways to reach customer service if the phone line is not working for you. You can use the chat feature on the Avis website, send an email through the "Contact Us" page, or visit a local Avis rental location in person. Chat is often faster than phone during busy times and does not require you to wait on hold.
If you have a complaint about your experience, Avis has a formal complaint process. You can file a complaint online, by mail, or by phone. The company aims to respond to complaints within a set timeframe, though the exact timeline depends on the nature of the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to call Avis customer service?
No. The 1-800 number is toll-free within the United States. If you are calling from outside the U.S., standard international rates explore depending on your phone plan and location.
Can I make a reservation by phone instead of online?
Yes. Call 1-800-331-1212 and a representative can book a car for you over the phone. You will need your driver's license, a credit card, and your travel dates and locations ready.
What if I have a problem with my rental car while I am driving?
Call the roadside information number on your rental agreement when ready. This line is available 24 hours and handles breakdowns, accidents, lockouts, and other emergencies. Do not use the main customer service line for active rental problems.
Can I change my rental dates by phone?
Yes, you can extend or shorten your rental by calling 1-800-331-1212. Have your confirmation number ready. Some changes can also be made online through your account, which may be faster.
What if I am calling from another country?
Find your country's Avis phone number on the Avis website under "Contact Us." International numbers vary by region. You can also email Avis or use the website chat feature if calling internationally is expensive or inconvenient.