U-Haul requires a valid driver's license from your state or country, but the type of license depends on the truck size you rent

U-Haul will rent you a truck with a standard passenger driver's license for most of their fleet—pickups, cargo vans, and moving trucks up to 14,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). You need to be at least 18 years old and have a license that is not suspended or revoked. The license must be current and not expired.

If you rent a larger truck—typically anything over 14,000 pounds GVWR—U-Haul may require a commercial driver's license (CDL). The exact threshold varies slightly by state, because each state sets its own GVWR limits for when a CDL becomes mandatory. U-Haul's website will tell you during the reservation whether your chosen truck requires a CDL, so you do not have to guess.

International licenses are accepted if you also carry a valid passport or travel document. U-Haul does not rent to drivers under 18, and some locations may have higher age minimums—usually 21—depending on local policy.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard state driver's license is sufficient for most U-Haul trucks, including cargo vans and moving trucks under 14,000 pounds GVWR.
  • Trucks over 14,000 pounds GVWR typically require a commercial driver's license, though the exact threshold depends on your state's regulations.
  • Your license must be valid and not suspended or revoked; U-Haul checks this during the rental process.
  • You must be at least 18 years old, though some locations may require you to be 21 or older.
  • International drivers can rent with a valid passport or travel document paired with their home country license.

When U-Haul requires a commercial driver's license

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum weight a truck is designed to carry safely, including the truck itself, cargo, passengers, and fuel. It is not the same as the truck's empty weight. U-Haul's larger moving trucks—typically 20-foot and 26-foot models—fall into the CDL-required category in most states because their GVWR exceeds the threshold.

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles sets the GVWR limit that triggers CDL requirements. In most states, any vehicle over 26,000 pounds GVWR requires a CDL. Some states set the limit lower. When you search for a truck on U-Haul's website or call a location, the system will flag whether that specific truck requires a CDL based on your state's rules and the truck's specifications.

If you do not have a CDL and try to rent a truck that requires one, U-Haul will not complete the rental. Getting a CDL takes time—you must pass a written test and a driving skills test at your state's DMV—so this is not something you can resolve on rental day.

What happens during the license check

U-Haul staff will examine your physical license at the rental counter. They verify that the license is not expired, not suspended, and matches your identity. They may also run a check against your state's DMV records to confirm the license is valid and active.

If your license is expired, most U-Haul locations will not rent to you, even if expiration happened recently. Some locations may make exceptions if you can show a renewal process or temporary license issued by your state, but this is not may provide. The safest approach is to renew your license before you book a truck.

U-Haul also asks for a second form of identification—typically a credit card or passport. This is standard rental practice and helps confirm you are the person named on the license.

Age requirements and restrictions

U-Haul's minimum age is 18 years old. However, drivers under 21 may face higher rental rates, additional fees, or restrictions at some locations. A few U-Haul franchises set their own minimum age at 21, so it is worth confirming when you reserve.

Drivers aged 18 to 20 should expect to provide a valid license and may be asked to sign additional liability waivers. Some locations require a parent or guardian to co-sign the rental agreement if you are under 21, though this varies by franchise.

There is no upper age limit for renting a U-Haul truck, provided your license is valid and you pass the standard checks.

International and out-of-state licenses

If your license is from another U.S. state, U-Haul treats it the same as a license from the state where you are renting. The license must be valid and not suspended. You do not need to convert it or obtain a temporary license in the rental state.

International drivers can rent from U-Haul if they hold a valid driver's license from their home country and carry a passport or other travel document that proves their identity and legal presence in the United States. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required by U-Haul, though it can be helpful as a translation of your home license.

International drivers should be aware that U-Haul's rental agreement is in English, and the truck's controls and signage are in English. If you are unfamiliar with U.S. road rules or the truck's systems, ask the rental agent for a walkthrough before you leave the lot.

What disqualifies you from renting

A suspended or revoked license is an automatic disqualification. U-Haul will discover this during their DMV check and will not complete the rental. If your license was suspended for unpaid traffic fines, unpaid child support, or a DUI conviction, you will need to resolve the suspension with your state's DMV before you can rent.

An expired license also disqualifies you in most cases. Some locations may accept a temporary license or renewal receipt if you are in the process of renewing, but do not count on it. Renew before you book.

A license from a state where you no longer reside may raise questions if you are renting in a different state, but it does not automatically disqualify you. U-Haul may ask for proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. If you have moved and not yet updated your license, bring a document showing your new address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a U-Haul truck with an expired license?

No, U-Haul requires a valid, non-expired license. If your license expired recently, you can renew it at your state's DMV before your rental date. Some locations may accept a temporary license or renewal receipt, but this is not may provide, so renew first to be safe.

Do I need a CDL to rent a 26-foot moving truck?

Most likely yes. A 26-foot U-Haul truck typically has a GVWR that exceeds your state's CDL threshold, usually 26,000 pounds. U-Haul's website will tell you during reservation whether the specific truck you want requires a CDL. If it does and you do not have one, you cannot rent it.

What if I have a suspended license?

U-Haul will not rent to you. You must resolve the suspension with your state's DMV first. This usually means paying outstanding fines, completing a required program, or waiting out a suspension period. Contact your DMV to find out what steps are needed.

Can I rent a U-Haul with an international driver's license?

Yes, if you also carry a valid passport or travel document. Your home country license must be current and valid. An International Driving Permit is helpful but not required by U-Haul.

Is there an age limit to rent a U-Haul truck?

The minimum age is 18, though some franchises set it at 21. There is no maximum age. Drivers under 21 may pay higher rates or be asked to sign additional waivers. Check with your local U-Haul location when you reserve.