How Old To Get A Rental Car

Figuring out how old to get a rental car is not simply a matter of holding a valid driver’s license. While your license proves you can drive, rental companies set their own age policies that can be surprisingly strict and vary widely. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from the standard minimums to the extra costs and how to rent if you’re under 25.

You will find that the rules depend heavily on the company, the location, and even the type of vehicle you want. Knowing these details ahead of time can save you from a major headache at the counter.

The most common minimum age to rent a car in the United States is 20 or 21. However, this is just the starting point. In most states, major companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis require renters to be at least 21 years old. But if you are between 21 and 24, you will almost always face a “Young Renter Fee” or “Underage Surcharge.” This is a daily fee added to your rental cost because statistics show younger drivers pose a higher risk.

In some states, like New York and Michigan, the law permits renting to drivers as young as 18. Even though it’s legally allowed, most major national brands still enforce a higher company policy of 21+. You may find smaller, independent agencies in these areas that cater to 18 to 20-year-olds, but your options will be limited and often more expensive.

For the broadest selection and the best rates, being 25 is the magic number. At 25 and over, the young renter fees disappear, and you can rent from virtually any company without age-related restrictions or surcharges.

Standard Minimum Age Policies By Major Company

Here is a quick overview of the standard policies for the largest rental car companies in the U.S. Remember, these can vary by state and country, so always verify directly with the location.

Enterprise, National, and Alamo: Minimum age is 21 at most locations. The young renter fee applies for drivers 21-24. In New York and Michigan, the minimum age is 18.
Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty: Minimum age is 20 at most locations. A young renter fee applies for drivers under 25. Some locations, like those in New York, may rent to 18-year-olds.
Avis and Budget: Minimum age is 21 at most locations, with a young driver fee for renters under 25. Policies for 18-20 year olds are location-specific.
Sixt: Typically requires renters to be at least 21, with a fee for those under 25. In some states like Michigan and New York, they may rent to 18-year-olds.

The Young Renter Fee Explained

If you are under 25, budgeting for the young renter fee is crucial. This is not a small charge. It can range from $15 to $50 per day, on top of the base rental rate and taxes. Over a week-long rental, this can add hundreds of dollars to your total cost.

The fee is non-negotiable and is automatically applied when the system identifies your age. It’s a risk surcharge because younger drivers are involved in more accidents statistically. Some companies may waive the fee for certain members of their loyalty programs or for specific corporate or government accounts, but this is rare.

How To Estimate The Total Cost With The Fee

When shopping for rates online, the initial quote you see often does not include the young renter fee. You typically must enter your driver’s age and date of birth to see the final, all-inclusive price. Always complete this step to avoid sticker shock.

Start your search on the rental company’s website or a comparison site.
Before you get the final quote, look for a section to enter the driver’s date of birth or age.
Proceed to the final booking page where all mandatory charges are listed.
Review the breakdown to see the “Young Renter Surcharge” or “Underage Fee” line item.

Renting A Car Under 25 Years Old

While it comes with extra costs and some limitations, renting a car under 25 is entirely possible with proper planning. Your key strategies will involve choosing the right location, company, and vehicle class.

First, focus on states with lower legal minimums, like New York or Michigan, if your travel is flexible. In these states, you’ll have more agencies to choose from, including the major brands. Second, be prepared to pay significantly more. The daily fee plus potential limitations on car types makes budgeting essential.

Third, you will likely face restrictions on the types of vehicles you can rent. Sports cars, luxury models, large SUVs, and premium vehicles are almost always off-limits to drivers under 25. You will be restricted to economy, compact, intermediate, or standard sedan classes.

Always book in advance to secure availability.
Have all required documentation ready: your valid driver’s license, a major credit card in your name, and proof of insurance if you are declining their coverage.
Be aware that some companies require under-25 renters to provide additional proof of return travel, like a flight itinerary.

Renting A Car Under 21 Years Old

This is where it gets challenging. If you are 18, 19, or 20, your options are very limited. Your best bet is to search for independent rental agencies in states that allow it. Use search terms like “rent a car under 21 in [city]” or “18+ car rental near me.”

Expect higher base rates on top of any young driver fees. These smaller companies often have stricter rules, require larger deposits, and may mandate additional insurance purchases. Thorough research and reading recent customer reviews is critical to avoid scams or unfair practices.

Another potential option is peer-to-peer car sharing services like Turo. On Turo, individual car owners set their own minimum age requirements. Some may list cars for renters as young as 18, though a young driver fee still usually applies. Always read the owner’s profile and trip requirements carefully.

International Age Requirements For Rental Cars

If you are planning to rent a car abroad, do not assume the rules are the same as in the U.S. Age requirements and fees vary dramatically by country.

In many European countries, the minimum age is higher. It’s common for the minimum rental age to be 21, 23, or even 25 for certain car categories. For example, in Germany and Italy, you often must be at least 21 to rent an economy car, but to rent a larger vehicle or any car in some cities, you may need to be 25 or older.

In other popular destinations like Australia and New Zealand, the standard minimum is 21, with high fees for drivers under 25. In some Asian and African countries, the minimum age might be 23 or 25 across the board.

Key Considerations For Renting Abroad

Check Country-Specific Rules: Always visit the rental company’s website for the specific country you are visiting. Look for a “Rental Requirements” or “Age Policies” page.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Many countries require an IDP alongside your valid U.S. license. An IDP is a translation of your license and is obtained from organizations like AAA before you travel.
Higher Fees and Deposits: Young driver fees exist internationally and can be substantial. Also, the security deposit held on your credit card may be much larger for younger drivers.
License Held Duration: Some countries require you to have held your license for a minimum period, such as one or two years, regardless of your age.

Essential Documentation For Any Age

No matter your age, you cannot pick up a rental car without the correct documentation. Having these items ready will make the pickup process smooth and fast.

Primary Required Documents

You will need to present these at the counter without exception.

A Valid Driver’s License: This must be issued by your state or country and be physically present. Digital licenses are rarely accepted. For international rentals, you may need both your home license and an International Driving Permit.
A Major Credit Card in the Renter’s Name: Debit cards, prepaid cards, or cash are generally not accepted for the initial hold/deposit. The card must have enough available credit to cover the rental cost plus a security deposit (which can be several hundred dollars). Some companies allow debit cards at the return, but not for the initial transaction.
Proof of Insurance or a Decision on Coverage: You must either purchase the rental company’s Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or provide proof that your personal auto insurance or credit card offers adequate primary coverage for rental cars. Be prepared to show your insurance card or a benefits guide from your credit card company.

Strategies To Save Money As A Younger Renter

The extra costs can be frustrating, but these strategies can help you manage the expense.

Shop Around Extensively: Prices and fees vary between companies. Use comparison tools, but then book directly on the rental company’s site after entering your age to see the true total.
Join Loyalty Programs: Sign up for free membership in programs like Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, Enterprise Plus, or Avis Preferred. Sometimes members get discounted young renter fees or exclusive offers.
Check Your Credit Card Benefits: Some premium credit cards offer primary rental car insurance that can save you from buying the expensive CDW. Crucially, verify that this coverage is valid for drivers under 25; some policies have age exclusions.
Look for Corporate or Association Discounts: If you are a member of AAA, AARP, a union, or a professional organization, or if you have access to a corporate discount code through your employer, use it. These can sometimes reduce the base rate, though the young driver fee usually remains.
Rent for Fewer Days: Since the fee is daily, a shorter rental period reduces its total impact. Consider if public transportation or ride-sharing could work for part of your trip.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your rental experience goes smoothly.

Assuming Your Quote Is Final

As mentioned, the biggest mistake is not entering your age during the online quote process. The low advertised rate is almost never the rate for a driver under 25. Always complete the booking steps to see the final price.

Forgetting Additional Drivers

If you plan to share the driving, any additional driver must also meet the age requirements and will likely incur their own young renter fee if they are under 25. Adding them at the counter is more expensive than including them during the initial reservation.

Not Inspecting The Vehicle

Before you drive off the lot, do a thorough walk-around of the car with a rental agent. Note any existing damage, no matter how minor, on the rental agreement or take timestamped photos and video. This protects you from being charged for pre-existing issues when you return the car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Rent A Car At 18?

Yes, but only in a few states where it is legally permitted, such as New York and Michigan, and typically only with specific companies or independent agencies. Major national brands usually require renters to be at least 20 or 21, even in those states. You will face high fees and limited vehicle choices.

What Is The Cheapest Age To Rent A Car?

The cheapest age to rent a car is 25 and older. At this age, the mandatory young renter fees are eliminated, giving you access to the base rental rates from all companies. You also have no restrictions on vehicle classes based on age.

Do All Rental Companies Charge An Underage Fee?

Virtually all major rental car companies charge a daily young renter fee for drivers under the age of 25. The amount varies by company and sometimes by location. Smaller, independent agencies may include the risk cost in a higher base rate instead of a separate fee.

Can I Use A Debit Card If I’m Under 25?

This is very unlikely for the initial rental transaction. Companies almost universally require a major credit card in the renter’s name to place the security hold. Some may allow a debit card for payment at the end of the rental, but policies are strict for younger drivers due to perceived financial risk.

Does My Personal Car Insurance Cover Me If I’m Under 25?

It might, but you must check your specific policy. Some personal auto insurance policies extend coverage to rental cars but may have exclusions for drivers under a certain age or for specific types of vehicles. Call your insurance agent to confirm your coverage details before you decline the rental company’s insurance.