Founded in 1947, National Car Rental is a premium, internationally recognized brand serving the daily rental needs of the frequent airport traveler throughout the world. With National, time-sensitive customers in the United States are able to quickly choose their own vehicles, based upon their advance reservation and requested car class, and then simply drive away from the airport. National – which launched the car rental industry's first comprehensive frequent-renter program – further expedites the rental process for Emerald Club members by offering counter bypass as well as access to National's "Emerald Aisle," an exclusive section of the lot where members can select any vehicle as long as they reserve a mid-sized car. In addition, Emerald Club members can choose to receive EmeraldAlertsSM – emailed communications that include Arrival and Return Alerts, and Drop & GoSM service with convenient eReceipts. In 2012, National was named "Best Rental Car Company in North America" by Business Traveler magazine. Executive Travel magazine also recognized National in 2011 as the top rental car service in the travel industry, honoring the brand with its "Leading Edge Awards." In addition, the SmarterTravel Editors Choice Award went to Emerald Club in 2010 and 2011 as the "Best Rental Car Loyalty Program." National is the Official Car Rental Company of the PGA of America.