What Sixt Car Subscription Is
Sixt car subscription is a monthly rental service where you pay a fixed fee to use a car for a set period, rather than buying one or renting by the day. Sixt is a German car rental company operating in multiple countries, including the United States. With their subscription service, you get a vehicle delivered to you (or pick it up), insurance and maintenance included in the monthly cost, and the ability to swap cars or cancel with notice.
The main difference from traditional car rental is the length of commitment and what's bundled in. A daily rental at an airport costs more per day but requires no long-term contract. A Sixt subscription locks you in for a month or longer but spreads the cost and includes services you'd otherwise pay separately.
Key Takeaways
- Sixt subscriptions run month-to-month in most U.S. locations, with prices varying by vehicle type and your city.
- Insurance, roadside information, and maintenance are included in the monthly fee, but fuel and tolls are your responsibility.
- You can cancel with 30 days' notice in most cases, though some plans may have different terms depending on your location.
- Delivery to your home or workplace is available in some cities; in others you pick up at a Sixt location.
- Mileage limits vary by plan — some are unlimited, others cap your monthly miles and charge overage fees.
How to Sign Up for a Sixt Subscription
Start by visiting Sixt's website or mobile app and entering your city and desired subscription start date. The site will show you available vehicle types — typically economy cars, sedans, SUVs, and premium options — along with the monthly price for each. Prices change based on demand and location, so the same car model costs different amounts in different cities.
Once you choose a vehicle and plan, you'll enter your driver's license information, insurance details, and payment method. Sixt will verify your license and run a background check. Most approvals happen within 24 to 48 hours. After approval, you'll either schedule a delivery time (if available in your area) or pick up your car at the nearest Sixt location. Delivery typically takes 3 to 7 business days from approval.
You'll receive the car keys, insurance card, and a welcome packet with your subscription terms. Read the mileage limits and cancellation policy carefully — these vary by location and plan type.
What's Included and What You Pay Extra For
Your monthly subscription covers the vehicle itself, comprehensive and collision insurance (with a deductible that varies by plan), roadside information, and routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. You do not pay separately for these services during your subscription period.
You are responsible for fuel, tolls, parking fees, and traffic violations. If you exceed your plan's mileage limit, Sixt charges an overage fee per mile — this amount depends on your location and vehicle type. Damage beyond normal wear and tear may result in additional charges, even with insurance included, if the damage exceeds your deductible.
Some plans offer unlimited mileage; others cap you at 1,500 or 2,000 miles per month. Check your specific plan details before signing up, especially if you commute long distances or take frequent road trips.
Cancellation, Swaps, and Early Termination
Most Sixt subscriptions allow you to cancel with 30 days' written notice, though some locations or plan types may require 60 days. You must return the vehicle in the same condition you received it (normal wear and tear excepted). If you cancel early without meeting the notice period, you may owe an early termination fee — typically the cost of one or more months' subscription.
If you want to swap your car for a different model mid-subscription, Sixt allows this in many locations. Contact your local Sixt office or use the app to request a swap. There may be a fee if you're switching to a more expensive vehicle, or a credit if you're downgrading. Swaps usually take 3 to 7 business days to process.
If your car breaks down or is damaged, Sixt provides a loaner vehicle while yours is repaired. This is included in your subscription — you don't pay extra for the loaner.
Mileage Limits and Overage Charges
Sixt offers different mileage tiers depending on your plan. Some subscriptions include unlimited miles; others limit you to 1,500, 2,000, or 2,500 miles per month. The monthly fee reflects the mileage tier — unlimited plans cost more upfront but save you money if you drive frequently.
If you exceed your limit, Sixt charges a per-mile overage fee. This fee varies by location and vehicle type but typically ranges from $0.25 to $0.50 per mile over your limit. Track your mileage throughout the month using the Sixt app, which shows your current total and remaining allowance. If you know you'll exceed your limit, contact Sixt before the month ends — you may be able to upgrade to a higher tier for the remaining days.
Delivery and Pickup Options
In major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, Sixt offers home or workplace delivery at no extra charge. Delivery typically takes 3 to 7 business days after your subscription is approved. You'll receive a text or email with a delivery window, and a Sixt representative will bring the car to your address.
In smaller cities or areas without delivery service, you pick up your car at a Sixt rental location during business hours. Pickup is when ready once your subscription is active. When your subscription ends, you return the car to the same location or arrange a pickup if delivery is available in your area.
Some locations allow you to pick up at an airport location for convenience, though this may have different hours or policies than standard Sixt offices.
Insurance and Liability Coverage
Sixt subscriptions include liability insurance (covering damage you cause to other vehicles or property) and collision/comprehensive coverage (covering damage to the Sixt vehicle). The deductible — the amount you pay out of pocket if there's a claim — varies by plan and location. Standard deductibles range from $500 to $2,500.
You can reduce your deductible by purchasing additional coverage through Sixt, though this increases your monthly fee. If you have personal auto insurance, check whether it covers rental or subscription vehicles. Some personal policies do; others don't. Sixt's insurance is primary, meaning it pays first in a claim, so you're protected even if your personal policy has gaps.
If you're in an accident, contact Sixt when ready using the number on your insurance card. Sixt will guide you through the claims process and provide a loaner vehicle while your car is repaired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Sixt subscription car for rideshare or delivery work?
No. Sixt subscriptions are for personal use only. Using the vehicle for commercial purposes like Uber, DoorDash, or other delivery services violates your subscription agreement and can result in when ready termination and additional charges. If you need a vehicle for commercial use, contact Sixt about commercial rental options.
What happens if I need the car for longer than my subscription period?
You can renew your subscription before it expires by contacting Sixt or using the app. Renewal is straightforward and keeps you in the same vehicle (or a new one if you request a swap). If you forget to renew and your subscription lapses, you'll need to return the car and start a new subscription, which may take a few days to process.
Are there age restrictions for Sixt subscriptions?
Yes. You must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Drivers under 25 may face higher insurance costs or additional fees depending on your location. Check Sixt's website for your specific area's age policy before signing up.
Can I pause my subscription if I don't need the car for a month?
Sixt does not offer pause options in most locations. If you don't need the car, you must cancel and restart a new subscription later. Cancellation requires 30 days' notice in most cases, so plan ahead if you know you'll have a gap in usage.
What if I move to a different city during my subscription?
Contact Sixt to discuss your options. In some cases, you can transfer your subscription to a Sixt location in your new city. In others, you may need to cancel your current subscription and start a new one. Early cancellation fees may explore depending on your plan and how much time remains.