Wondering about car rental "express service"

[travelbug]

I'm renting from Budget and Dollar on my 2 upcoming trips. I've rented dozens of cars over the years, but I've never signed up for an express service (like Budget's Fastbreak service). Now I'm finally thinking about it in the hopes that my wait in line could be much shorter.

Now for today's dumb question - Is there any downside to signing up for that type of service? Like tons of e-mail spam? Credit card concerns? Seems silly, I know, but I decided to ask my DIS friends before going ahead and signing up.

Thanks for any info or advice you have for me.

 

[safetymom]

I have used Hertz for years with no problems.

 

[chamonix]

Dollar Express (was Fastlane) doesn't send a bunch of email. I believe you just have to be careful when signing up to not select any options for "extra" emails. If you do inadvertently sign up for some when you register, it is very easy to unsubscribe from any that do appear in your inbox. I have been registered with them for a couple years now, and never receive unnecessary emails.

 

[DVC-Don]

I belong to the Dollar & Budget programs. (Dropped Avis & Alamo programs) Just make to sure not to check off the "I would like more info" type questions on the applications and you'll be fine.

 

[BobH]

I never wanted to sign up for the same reasons you listed. I recently decided to sign up with Thrifty Car Rental Blue Reward Service after realizing that they already have my name, credit card number and driver's license number in their computer system by the time I get my car anyway. The only difference I can see is whether I have to stand in line to give it all to them or they have the information ahead of time.

 

[jekjones1558]

I have Budget, Alamo, National, Dollar and Avis express service. I have never had any problems with spam, etc. I have always been grateful to avoid long check-in lines, especially when I'm on vacation.