You must be at least 18 to rent a car, but most major rental companies charge an extra fee if you're under 25
The legal minimum age to rent a car in the United States is 18. However, being old enough and being able to rent without penalties are two different things. Nearly every major rental company — Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo — charges a daily surcharge called a young driver fee if you're under 25. This fee typically ranges from $15 to $30 per day, though some companies charge more during peak travel seasons.
A few regional and independent rental agencies have lower age thresholds or no young driver fees, but they are the exception. If you're under 25, expect to pay extra at the major chains, and plan your budget accordingly. Some credit cards and rental insurance policies cover this fee, so check your coverage before booking.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver's license to rent a car from any major company in the United States.
- Drivers under 25 pay a young driver surcharge of $15 to $30 per day at most major rental agencies, which can add $100 or more to a week-long rental.
- Some credit cards, travel insurance policies, and employer benefits cover young driver fees, so review your existing coverage before booking.
- A few regional rental companies and peer-to-peer services like Turo have lower age minimums or no surcharge, though availability varies by location.
- You will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance to complete a rental at any age.
What the young driver fee actually costs over a week or month
The young driver surcharge is per-day, so it compounds quickly on longer rentals. A $20 daily fee adds $140 to a week-long rental and $600 to a month-long one. On a three-day weekend trip, you might pay $60 extra just for being under 25. This fee is separate from the base rental rate, taxes, and any insurance you purchase.
Some companies waive or reduce the fee for customers who are members of their loyalty program, military, or AAA. It's worth asking when you book, though don't expect a may provide. A few companies, including some regional chains, charge the fee only if you're under 21 rather than under 25, which saves money if you're 21 to 24.
Where you can rent without the under-25 surcharge
Peer-to-peer rental services like Turo allow owners to set their own age requirements, and many accept drivers as young as 18 with no surcharge. The trade-off is that you're renting from an individual rather than a company, so the vehicle condition and owner responsiveness vary. Turo does provide insurance coverage, but you should read the policy carefully.
Some independent and regional rental agencies — particularly in smaller cities — have no young driver fee or charge it only to drivers under 21. Call ahead to confirm, because policies change and availability is limited. National chains operating in your area are more likely to have consistent pricing than small local shops.
Documents you need to rent at any age
Regardless of your age, you will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your own name, and proof of insurance. The credit card is used as a hold for the security deposit, not necessarily charged unless there is damage or a violation. Some companies accept debit cards, but most require a credit card and may charge a higher deposit if you use one.
Proof of insurance can come from your personal auto policy, your parents' policy (if you're listed as an authorized driver), or rental car insurance you purchase from the rental company. If you don't have your own insurance, the company will sell you a daily coverage plan, which adds another $15 to $25 per day. Bring your insurance card or a declaration page from your policy to avoid delays at the counter.
How insurance costs change for drivers under 25
If you purchase collision or comprehensive coverage from the rental company, the daily rate is typically higher for drivers under 25. A standard daily damage waiver might cost $18 per day for a 25-year-old but $25 per day for a 20-year-old. This is on top of the young driver surcharge, so your total daily cost can climb quickly.
Check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card covers rental cars. Many personal policies do, and some credit cards include rental car coverage as a cardholder benefit. If you're covered, you can decline the rental company's insurance and save that daily fee. Call your insurance company or credit card issuer before you rent to confirm the coverage applies to you as a driver and to the rental company you're using.
Renting in other countries if you're under 25
International rental companies often have higher age minimums and steeper surcharges outside the United States. In Europe, many companies require drivers to be at least 21 and charge young driver fees until age 30. In Canada and Mexico, the rules vary by company and location, but 18 is generally the legal minimum.
If you're planning to rent abroad, book through the company's website or call ahead to confirm the age requirement and total cost. Some international companies offer better rates for younger drivers than others, so comparing quotes is worth the time. Travel insurance that includes rental car coverage may help offset the extra fees.
What happens if you lie about your age or let someone else drive
Rental agreements are contracts. If you misrepresent your age or let someone not listed on the contract drive the car, the company can deny your insurance coverage and hold you liable for any damage or violations. This means you could be responsible for the full cost of repairs, towing, or fines — potentially thousands of dollars.
If a friend or family member needs to drive, add them as an additional driver when you book. This costs extra (usually $10 to $15 per day per driver), but it keeps you protected and keeps the rental legal. Never hand the keys to someone who isn't on the contract, even for a short trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car at 18 without a credit card?
Most major companies require a credit card in your name for the security deposit. Some accept debit cards, but they typically place a higher hold on the account and may charge additional fees. Call the rental company directly to ask about their debit card policy before you book.
Does my parents' insurance cover me if I rent a car?
It depends on the policy and whether you're listed as an authorized driver on their vehicle. Call your parents' insurance company and ask whether their coverage extends to rental cars and whether you're covered as a driver. Bring written confirmation from the insurer to the rental counter.
Will I pay the young driver fee if I'm 25 on the day I pick up the car?
Most companies charge based on your age at pickup, not at return. If you turn 25 before you rent, you should not pay the surcharge. Bring your driver's license to confirm your age at the counter.
Is the young driver fee the same at all rental companies?
No. The fee ranges from $15 to $30 per day depending on the company, location, and season. Some companies charge it only to drivers under 21. Compare quotes from multiple companies before booking, because the total cost can vary significantly.
Can I avoid the young driver fee by using a peer-to-peer service?
Many peer-to-peer services like Turo allow 18-year-olds to rent without a surcharge, though individual owners set their own age requirements. Availability and vehicle selection vary by location, and you're renting from a private owner rather than a company, so read the terms carefully.