You can cancel your policy within 14 days of receiving your PDS and Certificate of Insurance. The premium you have paid will be refunded to you in full, as long as you have not started your trip and do not want to file a claim of any sort related to the policy. Once this 14-day period has passed, you can still cancel your policy but you will not receive any refund.
How Old Do You Need to Be to Rent a Car?
PUBLISHED ON Jun, 11 2023
Renting a car offers the convenience of travel without the need to own a personal vehicle. While it seems straightforward, the process of renting a car often includes a few stipulations, particularly around the renter’s age. As age regulations can vary greatly across countries and rental companies, it’s essential to review these guidelines before proceeding with a rental agreement.
The terms and conditions of car rentals can also vary based on the specific location and company. Therefore, it’s important to review these terms for each rental, as some might have additional age-related restrictions or surcharges.
Given the various factors at play, including age, driving experience, and rental company policies, understanding the requirements to rent a car is essential before commencing the process. It not only ensures a smoother transaction but can also prevent unexpected complications during the rental period.
The General Age Requirement for Car Rentals
In most locations around the world, the general age requirement for renting a car usually falls around 21 to 25 years old. This standard range, however, can vary depending on the location and the rental car supplier’s policies. It’s also important to note that international rentals often have their own specific requirements and restrictions, which can further modify these age limits.
When planning to rent a car, it’s crucial to be aware that rental car age requirements and restrictions can significantly affect the cost of your vehicle reservation. For instance, many rental suppliers set strict age limits or impose an additional daily fee known as a “young driver surcharge” on drivers under the age of 25. These restrictions and fees can greatly influence the final price of the rental and may require additional documentation or insurance coverage.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the age requirement is not merely a question of being old enough. In many cases, rental car companies also consider the length of time the renter has held their driver’s license. This consideration is especially relevant for young adults, where despite being of legal age to drive, they may face additional rental fees and restrictions if their license is relatively new.
On the other end of the spectrum, senior drivers, often classified as those 70 years or older, can also be subject to specific restrictions or surcharges. Again, these policies are highly dependent on the rental car supplier and the location of the rental.
Lastly, keep in mind that age requirements and associated fees may change depending on the location. In particular, international rentals often require a closer look at the rental terms as they may carry country-specific stipulations that can influence the renter’s eligibility and the total cost of the rental.
To avoid unexpected surprises, it’s recommended to thoroughly research and understand the specific rental terms set by the car rental supplier in your target location. This knowledge will help ensure a smoother rental process and a more enjoyable travel experience.
Car rental under 25
Alamo
The minimum age to rent a vehicle with Alamo is 21 years of age.
A ‘Youthful Surcharge’ may be applied to your rental, if you are between the ages of 21 and 24. The average cost is approximately $25.00 per day but can be higher or lower based on the rental location.
Renters 21 through 24 years of age may be restricted to specific car classes.
Avis
You can rent a car from the Avis fleet if you’re age 21-24, but you will be subject to an additional surcharge at an average cost of $27 per day.
Renters younger than 25 are permitted to rent Economy through Full-Size cars, Premium cars, Convertibles, Intermediate SUVs and Standard SUVs.
Renters younger than 25 may not rent vehicles in the following car classes:
- Full-Size SUVs
- Luxury
- Minivans
- Passenger Vans
- Premium SUVs
- Specialty Cars
Budget
You can rent a car from Budget at age 21 in most states (at age 18 in New York and Michigan states) if you pay an underage renter surcharge. At time of rental, an additional $27-per-day underage surcharge for these renters will be applied. Because Budget don’t verify your age when you make a reservation, this fee is in addition to your quoted online rate.
Exceptions are Michigan and New York, where a driver must be at least 18 to rent where a “Younger renter fee” will apply $41 (in Michigan) / $52 (in New York).
Dollar
Dollar rents to drivers age 20-24. Make sure you meet these criteria to rent from Dollar as an under 25-year-old:
- You must be at least 20 years old (18 years old in NY and MI).
- You need a valid driver’s license, in good standing for over a year (any recent suspensions could mean you’re ineligible to rent).
- You need a valid debit or credit card under the same name as your license.
- You will be subject to a Young Renter Fee, in addition to the standard car rental rate. Dollar Underage Driver’s Fee varies by location, it is typically around $25.00 – $35.00 plus local tax and surcharges.
Enterprise
The minimum age to rent a vehicle with Enterprise is 21 throughout the U.S., except in Michigan and New York where the minimum age to rent is 18.
All other renters under 25 will be required to pay a “young renter fee.” The average cost is approximately $25.00 per day but can be higher or lower based on the rental location.
- In Michigan, any driver 18-20 years of age will be charged an additional ‘Young Renter Fee’ of $36.50 per day, while any driver 21-24 years of age will be charged an additional ‘Young Renter Fee’ of $15.75 per day.
- In New York, any driver 18-20 years of age will be charged an additional ‘Young Renter Fee’ of $64.75 per day, while any driver 21-24 years of age will be charged an additional ‘Young Renter Fee’ of $30.75 per day.
Fox
Fox Rent a Car is welcoming drivers from 18 and up!
An additional surcharge for all underage drivers of between ($20-$25) per day is applied to your card at the time of reservation. For drivers from 21-24 years of age, they will be charged an under-age fee of $20 per day while those drivers aged between 18-20 years of age will be charged $25 per day. This fee varies depending on your location.
Hertz
The minimum age to rent is 18 in the U.S., except in Alabama and Nebraska, where the minimum age to rent is 19. Renters must have had a valid driver’s license for at least one year. Drivers under age 25 will be charged a young renter fee unless they are AAA members.
Due to the alliance between AAA and Hertz, Hertz has some of the most expensive underage driving penalties, but they are also some of the easiest to avoid. For members between the ages of 18 and 24 who also satisfy basic rental requirements, AAA offers incentives when renting through Hertz, including a price waiver for young renters.
National
The minimum age to rent a vehicle is 21 years of age.
A ‘Youthful Surcharge’ may be applied to your rental, if you are between the ages of 21 and 24. The average cost is approximately $25.00 per day. For drivers between the ages of 21 and 24, a young renter fee will apply at an average cost of $20 per day. This fee can be higher or lower, depending on the rental location. For drivers between the ages of 18 and 20, a younger renter fee will apply in Michigan ($40) and New York ($57).
Renters 21 through 24 years of age may be restricted to specific car classes. In Michigan and New York, the minimum age to rent is 18 as mandated by these states.
Sixt
Certain regulations apply related to the minimum age and possession of a driver’s license which can be found during the booking process depending on the booked vehicle. The minimum age to rent a vehicle in most locations is 21 (in the state of New York 18) and the driver must have a valid driver’s license. For certain specialty and larger-sized vehicles the minimum age of 25 years of age applies.
An Underage Driver Fee will apply for drivers under 25 years. If you’re age is 20 to 24 then there is an additional charge of $25.00- $35.00 depending on the location.
Thrifty
Thrifty offers rentals to those ages 20 years and up. Exceptions are Michigan and New York, where a driver must be at least 18 to rent.
Drivers under age 25 will be charged a younger renter fee. If you’re age is 20 to 24 then there is an additional charge of $25.00- $35.00 depending on the location.
Comparing Under 25 Fees of Major Car Rental Companies
| Rental Company | Minimum Rental Age | Vehicle Restrictions | Young Driver Fee Under 25 | New York State Youthful Surcharge (21 to 24 years old) | New York State Youthful Surcharge (18 to 20 years old) | Michigan State Youthful Surcharge (21 to 24 years old) | Michigan State Youthful Surcharge (18 to 20 years old) |
| Alamo | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $25.00 | $24.00 | $64.00 | $20.00 | $42.00 |
| Avis | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $27.00 | $35.00 | $84.00 | $28.00 | $41.00 |
| Budget | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $27.00 | $35.00 | $52.00 | $27.00 | $41.00 |
| Dollar Car | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy through Luxury cars | $29.00 | $29.00 | $41.00 | $29.00 | $41.00 |
| Enterprise | 21 Years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $25.00 | $24.50 | $64.50 | $19.00 | $ 40.00 |
| Fox rent a car | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $20.00 | $20.00 | $25 | N/A | N/A |
| Hertz | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $19.00 | $25-35 | $52.00 | $19.00 | $42.00 |
| National | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $25.00 | $25.00 | $64.00 | $25.00 | $42.00 |
| Sixt | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Depends on location | $25- $30 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Thrifty | 21 years 18 in Michigan and New York |
Economy to Full-size cars | $29.00 | $29.00 | $52.00 | $29.00 | $41.00 |
Can You Lie About Your Age On Fox Rent a Car?
You are not allowed to mislead your age when you rent a car. You must present a current driver’s licence during the verification process that follows signup. Your birthdate is displayed on your licence. Therefore, not unless you present a false licence.
Notably, most car rental companies has access to the DMV database. Therefore, if you submit the incorrect paperwork, you won’t be accepted and won’t be able to rent a car.
How to Avoid Avis Under 25 Fee
Book with Non-traditional Rental Companies
You might be wondering if there’s a way to get around the young driver cost if you’re a young driver looking to rent a car. Consider Booking with Alternative Rental Companies firms like Turo, Getaround, Silvercar, and Zipcar are examples of non-traditional car rental firms. With them, you might get a decreased or no youthful surcharge in contrast to most typical businesses.
Get an AAA Membership and Rent Through Hertz
A car rental through Hertz and a AAA membership can help you avoid paying the annoying under-25 cost. Hertz and AAA have had a long-tenured partnership in the automobile industry.
One of the perks offered to AAA members is the waiver of the young renter’s fee for those aged 20 to 24. The cost of a AAA membership varies according to the type, location, and degree of coverage. The price each year ranges from $59.99 to $119.99. But all Memberships come with DMV services, trip planning, hotel, restaurant, and movie theatre discounts, along with emergency roadside assistance.
Final Word
Understanding age requirements when renting a car is vital as it helps avoid unexpected additional fees or outright refusal of service. Most car rental companies require a minimum age of 21-25 years at the time of rental and set a maximum age limit ranging from 70 to 75 years. These restrictions are in place as younger drivers typically have less experience and thus pose a greater risk of accidents, while older drivers may face health-related issues impacting their driving. Moreover, some companies also factor in the length of driving license possession. Reading the rental conditions carefully is paramount to avoid age-related issues when renting a car.
When you rent a car, the car rental companies will take a depost that serves as a financial security measure, ensuring that there are available funds to cover the cost of the rental and any additional charges that may occur, such as potential damages during the rental period. While these companies offer various insurance and protection products to their customers, including Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP). The CDW is not insurance per se but waives the renter’s responsibility for all or part of the cost of damage to, loss or theft of, the vehicle, provided no actions that invalidate the waiver are taken. This means that if the CDW is purchased and the vehicle is damaged, the renter might not be held financially responsible, and therefore the deposit may not be used to cover these damages. However, should something happen to your rental car, you are financially responsible for this excess. If you purchase CarInsuRent car hire excess insurance, the excess amount can be eliminated and reduced to zero for as low as $6.49 per day* to $94.90 for an annual policy.
FAQs
What is the typical minimum age to rent a car?
The typical minimum age to rent a car usually falls between 21-25 years old, but this can vary based on the state and rental company.
Can I rent a car in Florida if I’m under 25?
Yes, you can rent a car in Florida if you are at least 21 years old, though this might be associated with additional fees.
Do all car rental companies have the same age requirements?
No, age requirements can vary from company to company, and they may also differ based on the state or country where you plan to rent the car.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I cancel my policy before my trip?
Does CarInsuRent cover Sand and Ash Protection and Gravel Protection?
Our Iceland policy include Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) and Gravel Protection (GP).
What is Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP)?
Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) is a type of insurance coverage that is designed to protect rental cars from the potential damage caused by volcanic ash and sand in Iceland. Certain areas of Iceland still have loose ash and fine sand from the Eyjafjallajökull eruption, which can blow around and damage vehicles. SAAP is a specific waiver that was created to cover this type of damage, as Icelandic insurance companies do not include it in their Collision Damage Waiver. This coverage is optional, but highly recommended if you plan to drive in Iceland. Camping Iceland, a local car rental company, claims that SAAP will serve you well and recommends it for all rentals.When is it Common for the Wind to Toss Sand Onto the Roads?
Sand can be hurled onto roads in Iceland during the Sand & Ash period, which typically occurs in February, March, and April. During this time, the snow has only just thawed out and the grass hasn't grown sufficiently to keep the sand in its place. This can lead to damage to vehicles driving on the roads. It's important to note that sand and dust storms, which can also cause visibility issues for drivers, typically occur when strong winds lift large amounts of sand and dust from bare, dry soils into the atmosphere.What does CarInsurent Sand and Ash Protection in Iceland cover?
Due to the recent volcanic eruptions in Iceland the risk of damage to the paint and windows of the cars has increased. Our Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) insurance can cover damage to the paint, windows, lights, plastics, chromes, and wheels of the rental car caused by sand, gravel, ash, pumice, or other earth materials being blown onto the vehicle. The deductible for SAAP insurance is typically 50,000 IKR for all rental cars in the fleet. No other insurance covers these damages and insurance companies refuse to cover them. Even though all safety rules are followed damage can happen when, for example, wind starts blowing more than was forecasted thus moving the sand/ash and damaging the car. [carInsurent_sc_get_quote_cta cta_text="See How Much You Can Save on Your Car Rental Insurence" cta_btn_text="Get Started"]
Does the Insurance Cover Lost Keys and Remote Locking Devices?
Yes. CarInsuRent insurance covers lost keys and remote locking devices. Losing the keys to a rental car can be a stressful and frustrating experience. Many people wonder if their rental car insurance will provide coverage for lost keys. Rental car insurance policies may vary in their coverage for lost keys. Lost keys are not typically covered by car insurance for loss or theft, as keys are considered personal property.
Steps to Take If You Lose Rental Car Keys
Losing rental car keys can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but there are steps you can take to get back on the road quickly. Here are some tips based on the provided web search results:- Contact roadside assistance: Most rental cars come with a roadside assistance phone number that you can call in the event of a lockout or lost keys. You should be able to call and have someone sent out to help with your situation. Note that our car hire excess waiver insurance may reimburse you for roadside assistance.
- Check for a spare key: Some rental cars come with a spare key that is located in a magnetic box under the car or in the trunk. If you have rented a car that has a spare key, this could be an option to get back on the road quickly.
- Contact the rental car company: Contact the rental car company as soon as possible to let them know what has happened. They may be able to provide you with a replacement key or arrange for a locksmith to come and assist you.
- Check your insurance policy: If you take out our car hire excess insurance you may have coverage for lost or stolen rental car keys.
- Take preventative measures: One of the best ways to avoid losing rental car keys is to make them harder to lose. Attach a big, noticeable lanyard or keychain to the keys, something that will make a noise when moved, to help you locate them quickly. Additionally, always double-check that you have the keys with you before leaving the car.
Find the answers you’re looking for to the most frequently asked car hire insurance questions as well as other questions relating to our products and services.
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