Most rental companies require you to be at least 21, but you'll pay extra until you're 25

The standard minimum age to rent a car is 21 years old at most major rental companies in the United States. However, if you're under 25, you will pay a young driver surcharge — an additional daily fee that can range from $15 to $30 per day depending on the company and your location. Some companies won't rent to drivers under 25 at all, so you need to check the specific rental location's policy before you book.

A few companies, including Enterprise and Budget, will rent to drivers as young as 20 at select locations, but the surcharge is steeper and availability is limited. If you're 18 or 19, almost no major rental company will rent to you, though some small local agencies may — and their rates will be significantly higher.

The reason for these age restrictions and surcharges is insurance risk. Drivers under 25 have higher accident rates according to insurance data, so rental companies pass that risk onto younger renters through higher fees or outright refusal.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 21 to rent from major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget, though some allow 20-year-olds at specific locations.
  • Drivers under 25 pay a young driver surcharge of $15 to $30 per day on top of the base rental rate.
  • If you're 18 or 19, your options are extremely limited and will cost significantly more than standard rates.
  • The age requirement and surcharge amount vary by rental location and company, so you must check the specific branch where you plan to rent.
  • A valid driver's license and proof of insurance are required at any age, and some companies require a credit card in your name.

What happens when you're 21 to 24

At 21, you meet the minimum age requirement, but you're still in the surcharge zone. The young driver fee typically applies to anyone under 25. This means a $60-per-day rental could cost you $75 to $90 per day once the surcharge is added.

The surcharge amount depends on the rental company and the specific location. Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and National all charge differently, and the same company may charge different rates in different states or cities. You should always see the full daily rate — including the surcharge — before you confirm your reservation.

Some rental locations will waive or reduce the young driver surcharge if you're a member of certain programs, such as AAA or a corporate travel program. It's worth asking when you call or book online.

Renting at 18, 19, or 20

If you're under 21, your options narrow significantly. Most major rental companies will not rent to you at all. A handful of locations at Enterprise and Budget may rent to 20-year-olds, but you'll need to contact the specific branch to confirm — you cannot assume it's available everywhere.

If you do find a rental company willing to rent to you at 19 or 20, expect to pay substantially more than a 21-year-old would. Some companies charge double the standard daily rate or add a surcharge of $25 to $40 per day. You may also face additional requirements, such as a higher security deposit or a co-signer on the rental agreement.

Local or independent rental agencies sometimes rent to drivers under 21, but their rates are typically higher and their vehicles may be older. Always read the rental agreement carefully, as some companies impose mileage limits or restrict where you can drive.

What you need to bring to rent a car at any age

Regardless of your age, you'll need a valid driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory. An expired license will not work. If your license is from another country, you may need an International Driving Permit in addition to your passport, though policies vary by rental company and location.

You'll also need proof of insurance. This can be your own auto insurance card, or you can purchase insurance from the rental company. If you're using your personal insurance, bring the card or a printed copy showing your name, policy number, and coverage limits. If you don't have insurance and don't buy it from the rental company, most companies will not rent to you.

Most rental companies require a credit card in your name at the time of rental. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but policies vary. The credit card is used to place a hold for the rental cost plus a security deposit, typically $200 to $500. The hold is released when you return the car in good condition.

How age affects insurance and liability

When you rent a car, you are responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. If you're under 25, rental companies view you as higher risk, which is why they charge more. This surcharge does not include damage coverage — it's straightforward a fee for the increased risk.

You can purchase a damage waiver from the rental company, which covers collision and comprehensive damage. This is optional but recommended, especially if you don't have your own auto insurance that covers rental cars. The cost of a damage waiver varies but typically ranges from $10 to $25 per day.

If you cause an accident and don't have coverage, you are liable for the full repair cost. Rental cars can cost $30,000 to $60,000 or more, so this liability is real and significant.

Comparing rental companies and their age policies

Not all rental companies have identical age policies. Here's what the major companies typically require:

  • Enterprise: Minimum age 21 at most locations; some locations rent to 20-year-olds with a higher surcharge.
  • Hertz: Minimum age 21; young driver surcharge applies under 25.
  • Avis: Minimum age 21; young driver surcharge applies under 25.
  • Budget: Minimum age 21 at most locations; some locations rent to 20-year-olds.
  • National: Minimum age 21; young driver surcharge applies under 25.

These policies can change, and individual rental locations may have different rules. Always contact the specific branch where you plan to rent to confirm their current age policy and surcharge amount before you book.

Ways to reduce the cost if you're under 25

If you're paying a young driver surcharge, there are a few ways to lower your total cost. First, check whether your personal auto insurance or a family member's policy covers rental cars. If it does, you may not need to purchase the rental company's damage waiver, which saves money.

Second, look for rental discounts through membership programs. AAA members, military personnel, and corporate employees sometimes receive discounts that reduce or waive the young driver surcharge. Ask about these when you book or call the rental location directly.

Third, compare rates across companies. A $15-per-day surcharge at one company might be $25 at another, so checking multiple rental companies can save you $50 to $100 over a week-long rental.

Finally, consider whether you actually need to rent a car. If you're in a city with public transportation, ride-sharing services, or car-sharing programs like Zipcar, those options may be cheaper than a traditional car rental with a young driver surcharge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car if I'm 20 years old?

A few Enterprise and Budget locations rent to 20-year-olds, but it's not may provide. You must contact the specific rental branch to ask. If they do rent to you, expect a surcharge of $25 to $40 per day or higher, and you may face additional requirements like a co-signer or higher security deposit.

Do I have to pay the young driver surcharge if I'm 24?

Yes, most rental companies charge the young driver surcharge to anyone under 25. The surcharge typically ranges from $15 to $30 per day. Some membership programs or discounts may reduce or waive it, so ask when you book.

What if I don't have a credit card?

Most rental companies require a credit card in your name to place a hold for the rental and security deposit. Some locations accept debit cards, but policies vary. Call the rental location directly to ask whether they accept debit cards and what additional requirements you may need to meet.

Does my parents' insurance cover me if I rent a car?

It depends on the insurance policy. Some policies cover when ready family members renting a car, and others don't. Contact your parents' insurance company or check their policy documents to confirm. If you're not covered, you'll need to purchase insurance from the rental company.

Will the young driver surcharge go away when I turn 25?

Yes, most rental companies stop charging the young driver surcharge once you turn 25. However, confirm this with the rental company when you book, as policies can vary by location.