If you’re planning a trip, you might be asking what age can you get a rental car. Most rental agencies allow you to get a rental car at 21, but policies and fees vary by company and location.
This guide explains everything. We’ll cover the standard age rules, major company policies, and the extra costs young drivers face.
You’ll also learn how to rent under 25 and what documents you need. Let’s get started.
What Age Can You Get A Rental Car
The standard minimum age to rent a car in the United States is 21. This is a common rule across the industry. However, simply being 21 doesn’t guarantee a smooth rental.
Drivers under the age of 25 are classified as “young renters.” This classification triggers a mandatory Young Renter Fee, also called an underage surcharge. This daily fee is added to your rental cost.
In some states and at certain locations, like near airports, the minimum age might be higher, sometimes 25. It’s crucial to check the specific policy for your rental location before you book.
For international travelers, age requirements can be very different. In many European countries, the minimum age is 19 or 20, but renting a premium car often requires you to be 25 or older.
The Standard Age Policy For Major Rental Companies
While the baseline is similar, each rental company has its own specific rules. These rules can affect the car classes available to you and the total cost.
Always verify the policy on the company’s official website or by calling the rental location directly.
Enterprise, Alamo, and National
These sister companies share a similar policy. The minimum age to rent is 21 at most locations. Drivers under 25 will pay a Young Renter Fee, which varies by state and location.
For renters under 21, options are extremely limited. A few locations in New York and Michigan may rent to 18-year-olds, but this is rare and involves significant restrictions and higher fees.
Hertz and Dollar and Thrifty
Hertz sets its minimum age at 20 for most locations in the U.S. However, for rentals in New York and Michigan, the minimum age drops to 18. The young renter fee applies to drivers under 25.
Its budget brands, Dollar and Thrifty, generally follow a minimum age of 21 with under-25 fees. Always double-check as corporate-owned and franchise locations can have different rules.
Avis and Budget
Avis requires renters to be at least 21 years old. In New York state, the minimum is 18. A daily Young Renter Fee applies to drivers under 25.
Budget operates on the same principle, with a 21-year-old minimum at most places and an 18-year-old minimum in New York. Their underage surcharge is applied per day.
Other Rental Agencies
Smaller local agencies and peer-to-peer platforms sometimes have more flexible policies. Companies like Turo (a car-sharing service) allow car owners to set their own minimum age, which can be as low as 18 in many cases.
However, young drivers on Turo still often face a “young driver fee” if they are under 25. Traditional local agencies near universities or in rural areas might also cater to younger drivers, but you must research thoroughly.
Understanding Young Renter Fees And Surcharges
The Young Renter Fee is the biggest financial consideration for drivers under 25. It is not optional and is automatically added to your rental contract.
This fee is charged per day, not per rental. It can significantly increase the total cost of your trip.
- Typical Cost Range: Fees range from $15 to $35 per day, depending on the rental company, state laws, and the specific location.
- How It’s Applied: The fee is added to the daily rate of the car before taxes and other charges. Renting for a week with a $25 daily fee adds $175 to your bill.
- Who Pays It: Any driver listed on the contract who is under 25 will trigger this fee, even if the primary renter is over 25.
Some states, like New York and Michigan, have laws that prohibit age-based surcharges. In these states, you may not see a Young Renter Fee, but the base rental rates might be higher for everyone, or the available car classes for young drivers may be limited.
How To Rent A Car Under The Age Of 25
Renting a car when you’re under 25 requires more planning and can cost more, but it is very doable. Follow these steps to make the process easier.
- Shop Around and Compare: Don’t book with the first company you see. Use comparison websites and check each company’s official policy page. Pay close attention to the daily underage fee.
- Choose Your Car Class Wisely: Rental companies often restrict young drivers to certain car classes. You will typically be limited to economy, compact, midsize, or standard sedan categories. Sports cars, luxury vehicles, and large SUVs are almost always off-limits.
- Consider Membership Discounts: Being a member of certain organizations can help. AAA members sometimes get the Young Renter Fee waived at participating locations. USAA members and their families also qualify for age fee waivers with several major companies, even if you are not in the military.
- Look for Coupons and Promo Codes: Search for promotional codes that waive or reduce the young driver fee. These are sometimes offered through university alumni associations, credit card partnerships, or corporate employer programs.
- Book Early and Be Prepared: Availability for young renters can be limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Book your car as early as possible. Have all your required documents ready to present at the counter.
Required Documentation For Renting A Car
Regardless of your age, you must present specific documents to rent a car. The requirements are strict, and failing to provide them will result in a denied rental.
- A Valid Driver’s License: You must have a physical, unexpired driver’s license issued by your state or country. An interim or paper license is usually not accepted. International renters need a valid license from their home country and often an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Proof of Identity: A second form of ID is usually required. This is typically a passport for international travelers or a government-issued ID card for domestic renters.
- A Major Credit Card: This is non-negotiable. The card must be in the primary renter’s name. Debit cards, prepaid cards, or cash are generally not accepted for the initial hold. The credit card is used for a security deposit hold, which can be several hundred dollars.
- Proof of Insurance or Purchase of Coverage: You must either provide proof of your own personal auto insurance that covers rental cars or purchase the rental company’s collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW) at the counter.
For young renters, the agent will likely scrutinize these documents more closely. Ensure everything is current, matches the name on your reservation, and is in good condition.
International Age Requirements And Considerations
Renting a car abroad introduces a completely new set of age rules. Never assume the policies are the same as in your home country.
In many European countries, the minimum age is lower. You can often rent a car at age 19 in the UK, Germany, or France. However, there’s a major catch.
While the minimum age is lower, the “young driver” threshold often extends to age 25 or even 30. This means you could be 23 and still pay a substantial young driver surcharge in Europe.
Furthermore, the car categories available to drivers under 25 are usually limited to the smallest vehicle classes. Renting an automatic transmission car as a young driver in Europe can be very difficult and expensive.
Key tips for international rentals:
- Always book through the rental company’s local country website to see accurate age policies.
- Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you travel, as it is required in many countries.
- Be prepared for much higher security deposits, sometimes held for weeks after you return the car.
- Consider purchasing full insurance coverage from the rental company to avoid complicated international claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you rent a car at 18?
In most of the United States, no. The notable exceptions are the state of New York and Michigan, where some rental companies will rent to 18-year-olds. Outside the U.S., many countries allow it, but with strict conditions and high fees.
What is the cheapest rental car company for under 25?
There is no single cheapest company. The total cost depends on the base rate plus the daily young renter fee. You must get quotes from multiple companies for your specific dates and location. Budget brands like Dollar or Thrifty sometimes have lower base rates, but their young driver fees can be comparable to others.
How can I avoid the young driver fee?
You can avoid it by turning 25. Short of that, the most reliable method is to qualify for a waiver through an organization like USAA or AAA. Some corporate or association discount codes also waive the fee. Otherwise, it is mandatory.
Can I use a debit card to rent a car if I’m under 25?
This is very unlikely. Almost all major rental companies require a credit card in the primary renter’s name for drivers under 25. Debit card policies are stricter for young renters and usually involve additional credit checks and proof of return travel, if they are accepted at all.
Does adding an older driver to the reservation help?
If the primary renter is under 25, adding an older driver does not waive the young renter fee for the primary contract holder. However, if the primary renter is over 25, adding an under-25 driver as an additional authorized driver will typically trigger the young renter fee for that additional driver only.
Final Tips For A Smooth Rental Experience
To ensure no surprises at the rental counter, follow this final checklist. Being prepared is the best way to secure your vehicle and manage costs.
First, always read the full rental terms and conditions before you book. The fine print details age policies, fees, and restricted vehicle classes. Don’t just rely on the summary page.
Second, consider joining a rental company’s loyalty program. They are free and sometimes offer benefits like skipping the counter or providing member discounts that can offset fees.
Finally, inspect the car thoroughly before you drive off the lot. Note any existing damage on the rental sheet or take timestamped photos with your phone. This protects you from being charged for damage you didn’t cause, a concern for all renters but especially for younger ones who may be scrutinized more.
Renting a car as a young driver involves navigating extra rules and costs. By understanding the policies, comparing your options, and having the right documents, you can successfully secure a rental car for your journey. Plan ahead, budget for the fees, and you’ll be ready to hit the road.