Yes, a 20-year-old can rent a car in Germany, but it is challenging and comes with significant restrictions and extra costs. The legal minimum age to hold a driver's license in Germany is 18, but most major rental companies set their own minimum age between 19 and 25. For a 20-year-old, you will almost certainly be required to pay a Young Driver Surcharge, a daily fee that can substantially increase the total rental cost. Furthermore, the available vehicle classes will be limited, typically to smaller, less powerful cars.
The primary hurdle is the young driver fee. This is a standard industry practice to offset the higher insurance risk associated with younger, less experienced drivers. The fee varies by company but typically ranges from €15 to €50 or more per day. You must also have held your driver's license for at least one year, and sometimes two, to be eligible.
When booking, you must present specific documents. These include a valid driver's license from your country of residence. If your license is not in German or English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, though not always legally required; it can prevent misunderstandings with rental agents. You will also need a valid passport and a major credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
It is crucial to compare policies across different rental companies, as their rules can differ. Smaller, local agencies might have more flexible policies than international chains, but they may also have less English-language support. Always read the terms and conditions carefully before booking to avoid surprises.
| Rental Company | Typical Minimum Age | Young Driver Surcharge (Under 25) | Common License Holding Period Requirement |
|---|
| Sixt | 18 (varies by car class) | ~€29 per day | 1 year |
| Europcar | 19 | ~€32 per day | 1 year |
| Hertz | 20 | ~€25 per day | 1-2 years |
| Avis | 21 | ~€30 per day | 1 year |
| Buchbinder | 18 | ~€15 per day | 1 year |
| Local/Independent Agencies | 18-21 | Varies widely | Varies |
