RENTING A CAR UNDER 25: Requirements & Best Tips

Unlock the freedom to explore with car rental services for those under 25. Renting a car under 25 requires certain requirements, including age, a valid driver’s license, and others listed in this article. Most companies require renters to be at least 21 years old, but some offer rentals for young drivers as young as 18 or 20. Additional fees may apply for each young driver. Familiarize yourself with the rental car company’s return policies, geographical restrictions, and minimum rental period requirements.

Renting A Car Under 25

Renting a car when you’re under 25 can sometimes be more challenging and costly due to young driver surcharges imposed by rental car companies. However, it is still possible to rent a car if you meet certain requirements

Requirements To Meet When Renting A Car Under 25

#1. Age

The minimum age to rent a car varies by rental car company and location. Most rental car companies require renters to be at least 21 years old, but some companies, like Alamo and Hertz, offer car rentals for young drivers as young as 18 or 20 years old.

#2. Driver’s License

You will need a valid driver’s license with a photo to rent a car. Make sure your driver’s license is up-to-date and not expired.

#3. Payment Method

You will need a valid debit or credit card to make the reservation. Some rental car companies may require a credit card, so it’s a good idea to check the specific requirements of the rental location you plan to use.

#4. Additional Driver Fees

If you plan to have additional drivers on the rental agreement who are also under 25, some rental car companies may charge an additional fee for each young driver. Be sure to inquire about these fees and factor them into your budget if necessary.

#5. Insurance Options

Rental car companies offer various insurance options to protect you and the vehicle during the rental period. While insurance is not a requirement, it is highly recommended. You may have the option to purchase insurance coverage from the rental company or use your auto insurance policy.

#6. Driving Record

Rental car companies may review your driving record before allowing you to rent a car. While specific requirements may vary, having a clean driving record without major violations or accidents is generally preferred. Some rental car companies may have restrictions or additional requirements for drivers with certain driving infractions or limited driving experience.

#7. Deposit or Pre-Authorization

Rental car companies often require a deposit or pre-authorization on your credit card to cover any potential damages, fuel charges, or additional fees that may occur during the rental period. The amount of the deposit or pre-authorization will vary depending on the rental car company and the type of vehicle you’re renting.

#8. Return Policies

Familiarize yourself with the rental car company’s return policies, including the time and location for returning the vehicle. Late returns may result in additional charges, so be sure to adhere to the agreed-upon return time.

#9. Geographical Restrictions

Some rental car companies may have restrictions on where you can drive the rented vehicle, especially if you are renting from one location and planning to drop off the car at a different location. Ensure that your travel plans align with any geographical restrictions the rental car company may have.

#10. Minimum Rental Period

Some rental car companies have a minimum rental period requirement, especially for renters under 25. For example, they may require a minimum rental period of 2 or 3 days. Be aware of these requirements when planning your rental period.

Operators of Car Rentals For Driver Under 25

When it comes to car rentals for drivers under 25, there are several operators and rental companies that offer options and services tailored to this age group, including

#1. Get around

Getaround offers car rentals for drivers under 25, with fees varying based on age. The fees range from 75% of the trip price for 19-year-olds to no fee for 25-year-olds.

#2. Turo

Turo has tiered underage driver fees. For U.S. rentals, the fee is $30 per day for drivers aged 21 to 25 and $50 per day for drivers aged 18 to 20.

#3. Zipcar

Zipcar is a membership-based car-sharing service that offers rentals by the hour or day. While Zipcar doesn’t have specific age restrictions, drivers must be at least 21 years old and meet other membership requirements.

#4. Sixt

Sixt offers car rentals for drivers under 25, with a 25% student discount available.

#5. Enterprise

Enterprise Rent-A-Car allows drivers aged 21 and above to rent a car, with additional fees for drivers between 21 and 24 years old. They offer a wide range of vehicle options, including economy cars, SUVs, and trucks.

#6. Hertz

Hertz offers car rentals for drivers aged 20 and above, with additional fees for drivers between 20 and 24 years old. They have various vehicle options available, including economy, compact, and luxury cars.

#7. Avis

Avis allows drivers aged 21 and above to rent a car, with additional fees for drivers between 21 and 24 years old. They offer a diverse selection of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and luxury cars.

#8. Budget

Budget Rent a Car permits drivers aged 21 and above to rent a car, with additional fees for drivers between 21 and 24 years old. They provide a range of vehicle options, from economy cars to SUVs and trucks.

#9. National

National Car Rental allows drivers aged 21 and above to rent a car, with additional fees for drivers between 21 and 24 years old. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, compact, and full-size cars.

#10. Dollar

Dollar Rent a Car permits drivers aged 20 and above to rent a car, with additional fees for drivers between 20 and 24 years old. They have a selection of vehicles available, including economy, compact, and SUVs.

Fee Renting A Car Under 25

When renting a car under 25, there is a young renter fee imposed by rental car companies. Rental car companies charge a young renter fee for drivers under 25. The fee is an additional cost on top of the regular rental rate and is intended to offset the perceived higher risk associated with younger drivers. The fee helps cover insurance costs and other factors. The average cost of the young renter fee is approximately $25 per day, but it can vary based on the rental location and the rental car company.

Things To Do To Avoid The Fee For Renting A Car Under 25

#1. Membership Programs

Some membership programs like AAA and USAA offer benefits that can help waive or reduce the young renter fee. Check if your membership qualifies for any rental car discounts or fee waivers.

#2. Compare Rental Companies

Different rental car companies have varying fee structures for young renters. Compare the fees charged by different companies to find the most affordable option.

#3. Book with Silvercar

Silvercar is a rental car company that does not charge a young renter fee. Consider booking with them if they operate in your desired location.

#4. Corporate or Government Accounts

If you are renting a car for business purposes or through a corporate or government account, you may be exempt from the young renter fee. Check with your employer or account representative to see if you qualify for any exemptions.

Consider using car-sharing services like Zipcar or Hui Car Share, which may have lower or no young renter fees for drivers under 25.

#6. Look for Promotions and Discounts

Keep an eye out for promotions, discounts, or coupon codes that can help reduce or eliminate the young renter fee. Check the websites of rental car companies or search online for any available deals.

#7. Rent through Third-Party Platforms

Explore third-party platforms like Turo, which connects car owners with renters. These platforms may have different age restrictions or fee structures compared to traditional rental car companies.

#8. Rent Locally

Local or independent rental car companies may have more flexible policies and lower fees for young renters. Research local rental options in your desired location to see if they offer better rates.

#9. Consider Alternative Transportation

Depending on your travel needs, it may be more cost-effective to use alternative transportation options such as ridesharing services, public transportation, or bike rentals.

Disadvantages When Renting A Car Under 25

#1. Young Renter Fee

The most significant disadvantage is the young renter fee imposed by rental car companies. This fee can significantly increase the overall cost of renting a car, making it more expensive for drivers under 25 compared to older renters.

#2. Higher Insurance Costs

Rental car companies may charge higher insurance rates for young drivers due to the perceived higher risk associated with this age group. This can further increase the overall cost of renting a car.

#3. Limited Vehicle Selection

Some rental car companies may have restrictions on the types of vehicles available for young renters. This means that you may have a more limited selection of cars to choose from compared to older renters.

#4. Age Restrictions

Certain rental car companies may have specific age restrictions for renting a car. For example, some companies may require drivers to be at least 21 years old, while others may have a minimum age requirement of 25. This can limit the options available to drivers under 21.

#5. Higher Total Cost

The young renter fee can significantly increase the overall cost of renting a car, making it more expensive for drivers under 25. This additional expense can impact travel budgets and limit the affordability of renting a car.

#6. Financial Burden on Young Travelers

Young travelers, such as students or recent graduates, may already have limited financial resources. The young renter fee can place an additional burden on their budgets, making it more challenging to afford a rental car.

#7. Limited Rental Options

Some rental car companies may have restrictions on the types of vehicles available for young renters. This can limit the options and vehicle sizes available to drivers under 25, potentially impacting their travel plans or preferences.

#8. Age Discrimination

The young renter fee can be seen as a form of age discrimination, as it specifically targets and imposes additional costs on a specific age group. This can be frustrating for young drivers who may have a clean driving record and responsible driving habits.

#9. Inconvenience and Complexity

The young renter fee adds an extra layer of complexity to the rental process, requiring young drivers to navigate through additional fees and requirements. This can be time-consuming and may require extra documentation or verification.

#10. Additional Requirements

Rental car companies may have additional requirements for young renters, such as minimum driving experience or additional documentation. These requirements can add complexity and potential inconvenience to the rental process.

Can You Rent A Car Under 25 US?

Yes, it is possible to rent a car under 25 in the United States. However, rental car companies impose a young renter fee for drivers in this age group. The specific policies and fees may vary depending on the rental car company and location.

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car?

The cost of renting a car depends on factors such as the length of the rental, car class, location, insurance options, and additional products. Prices can vary between companies and locations, with the average cost in the United States being around $297 per week. Factors like high demand and the impact of the pandemic can also influence rental car prices.

How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Car In The UK?

The minimum age to rent a car in the UK varies depending on the rental car company and the type of vehicle. Generally, the minimum age is 23, but some companies may require renters to be at least 25 years old. It’s important to check with the specific rental car company for their age requirements and policies.

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car For A Day In The UK?

The cost of renting a car for a day in the UK can vary depending on the rental car company, location, and type of vehicle. Prices can range from approximately $14 to $48 per day, depending on the car category. It’s recommended to check with the specific rental car company or use online booking platforms for the best pricing information for your desired rental period and location.

What Is the Lowest Age To Rent a Car?

The lowest age to rent a car varies depending on the rental car company and location. Some companies allow renters as young as 20 years old, while others require renters to be at least 21 or 23 years old. Additionally, there may be additional fees or surcharges for drivers under a certain age, typically under 25. It’s advisable to check with the specific rental car company for their age requirements and any additional fees that may apply.

Conclusion

Car rentals for drivers under 25 vary based on age, with options including economy cars, SUVs, and trucks. Additional fees apply for drivers aged 20–24. All companies offer a variety of vehicle options and student discounts. Renting a car under 25 incurs a young renter fee, covering insurance and other factors, with an average daily fee of $25, varying by location and company. These options may have different fee structures. Renting a car under 25 can be expensive due to the young renter fee, higher insurance costs, limited vehicle selection, age restrictions, and higher total costs.