If you’re planning a trip, one of the most common questions is how old.do you have to be to rent a car. The minimum age to rent a car in the United States is typically 20 or 25, depending on the company and location. But that simple answer is just the start.
Age requirements vary widely around the world and are packed with fine print. Young driver fees, rental restrictions, and required documentation can all trip you up.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We’ll cover the major rental companies, international rules, and how to save money if you’re under 25.
How Old.do You Have To Be To Rent A Car
This is the core question. In the U.S., the standard minimum age is 25 at most major nationwide rental companies. However, many companies will rent to drivers between 20 and 24 years old, but they charge an additional daily fee.
This fee is often called a “Young Renter” or “Underage Driver” surcharge. It can add a significant cost to your rental, sometimes $20 to $50 per day. A few companies and locations, often near universities or military bases, may rent to 18- or 19-year-olds, but this is very rare and comes with even stricker rules.
It is crucial to always check the specific age policy of the rental company at your exact pickup location before you book. Never assume the policy is the same everywhere.
Minimum Age Policies By Major Rental Company
Here is a detailed look at the standard policies for the largest car rental agencies in the United States. Remember, these are general guidelines and local laws or franchisee rules can change them.
Enterprise, Alamo, and National
These three sister companies share a similar policy. The minimum age to rent is 20 at most locations. Drivers aged 20-24 will incur a Young Renter Fee. The fee and vehicle restrictions vary by location. In New York and Michigan, the minimum age is 18, but the young renter fee still applies.
Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty
Hertz and its budget brands generally set a minimum age of 20. Their young driver surcharge applies to renters aged 20-24. In a few states, like New York and Michigan, they may rent to 18-year-olds. Always verify directly with the renting location.
Avis and Budget
Avis and Budget typically require renters to be at least 21 years old. For drivers aged 21-24, a daily underage surcharge is applied. In some states, like New York, they may rent to 18-year-olds, but this is not the norm.
Other Rental Agencies
Smaller local companies or peer-to-peer services like Turo have completely different rules. Some local agencies near colleges might cater to younger drivers. Turo’s age policy is set by each individual car owner, so it can range from 18 to 25 and up.
Understanding Young Driver Surcharges
The young driver surcharge is a daily fee added to the base rental rate. It is not optional and is automatically applied when a driver under 25 is on the contract. This fee is because rental companies statistically see a higher risk of accidents with younger drivers.
The fee is usually non-negotiable, but there are ways to potentially avoid it:
- Join the company’s loyalty program. Some programs, like USAA, have partnerships that waive underage fees for members.
- Check for corporate or association discounts. If you work for a large company or are a member of certain organizations (like AAA or Costco), your discount code might waive the fee.
- Rent from a location that specifically caters to younger drivers, though these are limited.
You must always disclose your age truthfully when booking. If you arrive and the company discovers you are underage, they will refuse the rental and you will not get a refund.
Required Documentation For Rental
Your age isn’t the only hurdle. You must present the correct documentation at the counter. For all renters, regardless of age, you will need:
- A valid driver’s license. It must be issued by your state or country and be physically present. Digital licenses are rarely accepted.
- A major credit card in the renter’s name. Debit cards are often problematic, especially for young drivers. The card is used for a security hold.
- Proof of insurance or a willingness to purchase the rental company’s coverage. Your personal auto policy or a credit card’s rental coverage may apply, but you need to understand the terms.
For international renters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is frequently required alongside your home country license. Always check the specific requirements for the country you are visiting.
International Age Requirements For Car Rentals
Rules change dramatically once you leave the United States. In many countries, the minimum age is higher, and the young driver surcharge can apply to a much older age bracket.
Renting A Car In Europe
Across most of Europe, the standard minimum age is 21. However, for certain vehicle categories like luxury cars, SUVs, or minivans, the minimum age can jump to 23 or 25. It’s also common for the young driver surcharge to apply to anyone under 25, and sometimes even under 30.
In Germany, for example, you often must be at least 21 and have held your license for one year. For premium cars, the age requirement might be 25. In Italy and France, the minimum is typically 21, but drivers under 25 face high fees and limited vehicle choices.
Always, always verify the policy for your specific pickup country and city.
Renting A Car In Canada And Australia
Canada’s policies are similar to the U.S., with a typical minimum age of 21-25 depending on the province and company. Young driver fees are standard for those under 25.
In Australia, the minimum age is usually 21, but it can be as high as 24 for some 4WD or campervan rentals. A ‘Young Driver Fee’ almost always applies to drivers under 25, and sometimes under 30 for certain vehicle types.
Renting A Car In Asia And Other Regions
Requirements in Asia, Africa, and South America are highly variable. In Japan, the legal driving age is 18, but most rental companies require you to be at least 21. In South Africa, the minimum is usually 21, but you may need to be 23 for larger vehicles.
The key takeaway for international rentals is to research early. Book directly with the rental company’s local website or call the specific rental location to confirm their age, license, and credit card policies. Do not rely solely on third-party booking sites for this critical information.
Steps To Rent A Car If You Are Under 25
If you are between 20 and 24, you can still rent a car. It just requires a bit more planning and budgeting. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process.
Step 1: Research And Compare Policies
Start your search by identifying companies that rent to your age group. Use their official websites and input your exact pickup location, dates, and age. The booking engine will show you if you are eligible and calculate any young driver fees upfront. Compare the total daily cost, not just the base rate.
Step 2: Look For Fee Waivers And Discounts
Before you book, investigate potential surcharge waivers. Check with:
- Your auto insurance provider
- Your credit card benefits department
- Membership organizations (AAA, AARP, USAA, Costco)
- Your employer’s travel department
Some of these groups have contracts that explicitly waive the underage fee for their members.
Step 3: Book Early And Choose Your Vehicle Wisely
Book your rental as early as possible. Vehicle availability for young drivers is often limited to economy and compact car categories. You may not be allowed to rent a premium SUV, sports car, or luxury vehicle. Selecting a smaller, standard car from the booking site is your best bet.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documentation
Gather all required documents well before your trip. This includes:
- Your valid driver’s license.
- The primary credit card in your name. Ensure it has enough available credit for the rental charge plus the security hold.
- Proof of any discount or fee-waiver membership (like a USAA membership card).
- If traveling abroad, your passport and International Driving Permit.
Having this ready will speed up the counter process significantly.
Step 5: Understand The Rental Agreement And Costs
When you pick up the car, read the rental agreement carefully. Confirm the daily rate, the young driver surcharge amount, the total estimated cost, and the amount of the security hold on your credit card. Ask about any mileage restrictions and the fuel policy. Make sure you are clear on where you can and cannot drive the vehicle.
Before you drive off, do a thorough inspection of the car for any existing damage and ensure it is noted on the rental agreement. Take timestamped photos or a video with your phone for your own records.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can You Rent A Car At 18?
In most of the United States, no. The vast majority of major rental company locations set their minimum age at 20 or 21. However, there are exceptions. State law in New York and Michigan mandates that companies must rent to 18-year-olds. Even then, high young driver fees and limited vehicle options apply. Some local independent agencies near universities or military bases may also rent to 18-year-olds, but you must search specifically for them.
What Is The Cheapest Rental Company For Under 25?
There is no single cheapest company. The total cost depends on the base rate plus the young driver fee. Budget brands like Thrifty or Dollar sometimes have lower base rates, but their young driver fees can be high. A company with a slightly higher base rate might have a lower daily surcharge. The only way to find the best deal is to run mock bookings for your specific dates and location on several company websites, comparing the final total price.
Do You Need A Credit Card To Rent A Car Under 25?
Almost always, yes. Major rental companies are very strict about this for young drivers. They require a major credit card (like Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover) in the renter’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards, prepaid cards, or cash are rarely accepted for drivers under 25. If you do not have a credit card, your options will be extremely limited, and you will need to call individual local rental offices to inquire about their policy.
Can You Rent A Car At 21?
Yes, you can rent a car at 21 from most major companies in the U.S. and abroad. This is a common minimum age threshold. However, you will almost certainly be charged a young renter surcharge for each day of the rental. The fee applies because you are under the age of 25. Be prepared for this additional cost when budgeting for your trip.
Does Insurance Cover Drivers Under 25?
This depends entirely on your source of insurance. Your personal auto insurance policy may extend coverage to a rental car, but you must confirm with your agent. Some policies exclude rentals for drivers under 21 or 25. The rental company’s own insurance (Loss Damage Waiver or Liability Insurance) will cover you regardless of age, but you must purchase it. Some premium credit cards also provide secondary rental car insurance, but they often have exclusions for certain vehicle types or rentals longer than 15 days—and they may not cover drivers under 25. Always read the terms carefully.