The most significant innovation in the rental industry is the ability to bypass the counter entirely. Car Rental Contactless App Access is now the customer expectation. Companies are leveraging digital key technology to offer a seamless, 24/7 self-service experience where the smartphone is the only key needed.

Here is a breakdown of the companies leading the charge in offering contactless access through a smartphone app.

Category 1: Digital-First and Peer-to-Peer (P2P)

These companies were founded on the principle of keyless, app-based access, offering the purest form of contactless rental.

  • Getaround: Known for instant booking and keyless entry via app. Their secure “Getaround Connect” technology allows renters to locate and unlock the car with the app. There are no lines and no paperwork.

  • Virtuo: Offers a 100% app-based rental experience. Customers book and unlock all with the app, eliminating queues at rental counters. Your phone is your key with Virtuo.

  • Turo: While it is a P2P service, the remote check-in process requires the guest to confirm their license and upload pre-trip photos in the app. Access is then given remotely via digital means or a lockbox code.

Category 2: Traditional Companies Enhancing App Access

Major, established rental companies are heavily investing in technology to provide a fast, digitized experience, often through expedited check-in processes.

  • Hertz: Offers online check-in and car selection at over $60+ major airports. Customers receive a link via email or SMS to check in and select their exact car. This allows customers to go straight to their car.

  • Avis / Budget: Both offer “Digital Check-In” processes where customers can prepare reservation details online to speed up the counter experience.

  • Alamo: Offers “Skip the Counter,” allowing customers to submit payment and accept the rental agreement online to go directly to their vehicle. The gate agent confirms details upon exit.

The Technology Behind Seamless Contactless Access

All these Car Rental Contactless App Access services rely on a secure system to manage the digital key. This technology is essential for ensuring 24/7 operation.

  • Mobile Apps: These allow renters to book and manage rentals, and in many cases, unlock the car and complete payments.

  • Keyless Entry Systems: These systems allow renters to unlock and start the car using their mobile phone or a code provided to them.

  • Digital Verification: Prior to the journey, drivers upload their ID and driving license document for verification, which often happens automatically using AI.

  • Digital Agreement: After Signing of rental agreements the customer gets to the vehicle, often via email or in-app.

The MoboKey Advantage for Contactless Fleets

For any rental operator—from Turo host to large regional fleet—MoboKey offers the infrastructure to compete with the top providers.

  • Contactless Pickup & Return: MoboKey automates your car rentals, allowing customers to reserve, unlock, and return vehicles—all through their phone.

  • Reduced Overhead: MoboKey eliminates the time and labor required for in-person key handovers.

  • Enhanced Security: Features like remote immobilization prevent unauthorized use and reduce theft risk.

Ready to offer a modern, seamless, and fully digital rental experience?

Therefore, choose MoboKey: Digital Key Technology and take control of your fleet—remotely, securely, and effortlessly.

Download the MoboKey application on the App Store or Play Store.