Career roadmap
How to Become a Rental Agent
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a rental agent, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a rental agent: (1) get hired at a rental company, (2) learn systems, (3) build sales skills, (4) join a management trainee program, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–2 weeks. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a rental agent
Get hired at a rental company
Many hire without experience.
Learn systems
Reservations, contracts and inspections.
Build sales skills
Explain protection and add-ons.
Join a management trainee program
Learn branch operations.
Advance
Become an assistant or branch manager.
Education and training requirements
No formal education is required. Agents learn on the job.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | No formal educational credential |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–2 weeks |
Certifications and licenses
- Valid driver’s license: Required for moving vehicles.
- Customer service training: Service and sales training.
- Equipment safety training: For tool and equipment rentals.
- Management trainee program: Company leadership training.
Skills to build now
Start with rental contracts, payment processing, and vehicle and equipment inspection, and practice customer service and persuasion. Learning the rental agent vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Rental Agent: Rent items and serve customers.
- Management Trainee: Learn branch operations.
- Assistant Branch Manager: Lead daily operations.
- Branch Manager: Run a location.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Rental Agent training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a rental agent?
Most people need about 1–2 weeks of training. No formal education is required. Agents learn on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a rental agent?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “no formal educational credential” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for rental agents?
Common credentials include Valid driver’s license, Customer service training, Equipment safety training, and Management trainee program. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 41-2021 (Counter and rental clerks).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Counter and rental clerks (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.