Does Budget currently specify the makes or models of vehicles that Budget franchisees must rent?
Budget Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
If Budget requires, your Budget Franchise must use the vehicle models that Budget periodically specifies in the Standards or otherwise in writing. Budget does not currently specify makes or models for the vehicles that Budget Franchises rent, but you must maintain all vehicles in a clean and presentable condition and maintain the quality standards that Budget periodically specifies for vehicles. Standards also govern the letter and number symbols you must use for communicating rental rates, vehicle types, credit cards, and other similar information related to rental transactions. Budget formulates and modifies its Standards based on its and other Network members' experience in developing and operating Budget Rent A Car businesses. Budget will notify you in the Manual and in other written or electronic communications of the Standards (and modifications to the Standards).
Source: Item 8 — RESTRICTIONS ON SOURCES OF PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (FDD pages 32–34)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Budget's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, Budget does not currently specify the makes or models of vehicles that franchisees must rent. However, Budget retains the right to specify vehicle models in the future through updates to the Budget Rent A Car Administration Manual or other written communications. Franchisees are obligated to operate their Budget franchise in strict compliance with the Budget License Agreement and all standards, specifications, and operating procedures designated by Budget.
Even though Budget does not currently mandate specific vehicle makes or models, franchisees must maintain all vehicles in a clean and presentable condition and adhere to the quality standards that Budget periodically specifies for vehicles. These standards also govern the letter and number symbols used for communicating rental rates, vehicle types, credit cards, and other rental transaction information. Budget formulates and modifies its standards based on its own experience and the experience of other network members.
Prospective franchisees should be aware that while there is current flexibility in choosing vehicle makes and models, Budget could change this policy in the future. It is important to stay informed of any updates to the Budget Rent A Car Administration Manual and other written communications from Budget to ensure compliance with the latest standards. Franchisees should also inquire about the specific quality standards for vehicles to ensure they are meeting Budget's expectations for vehicle condition and presentation.