can different person return rental car

[MacArcher]

Yes, a different person can typically return a rental car, but only if they are listed as an additional authorized driver on the rental agreement. This is the most critical rule. Simply handing the keys to an unlisted friend or family member violates the contract and voids insurance coverage, leaving you financially liable for any damage.

Rental companies require all drivers to be pre-approved to manage risk. This process involves presenting a valid driver's license and often paying a daily fee for each additional driver. The primary renter must usually be present at the counter to add someone at the start of the rental. Some companies, like Enterprise, are more flexible and may allow the added driver to return the car alone if the proper paperwork is completed upfront. In contrast, others, like many budget operators, strictly prohibit it. The safest approach is to always call the specific rental location in advance to confirm their policy.

Rental Company	Policy on Different Person Return	Key Requirements	Potential Fee
Enterprise	Often allowed	Driver must be pre-authorized on contract.	~$10-$15 per day
Hertz	Varies by location	Strictly may require primary renter present.	~$13-$15 per day
Avis	Generally not permitted	Primary renter usually must return vehicle.	~$15 per day if added
Budget	Typically prohibited	Policy often forbids third-party returns.	N/A
National	Allowed for Emerald Club	Specific to frequent renter club members.	May be waived for club

If you cannot add a driver, some companies offer "after-hours" drop-off procedures. This involves locking the keys in a designated box, but it still requires the vehicle to be returned by an authorized driver from the contract. For business rentals under a corporate account, policies are often more lenient, allowing any employee of the company to return the vehicle. Never assume it's okay; always get permission in writing or via email to avoid massive liability.

[LeJohn]

From my experience, it's a hard no unless you jump through the hoops first. The rental contract is a legal document. If an unauthorized driver brings the car back and there's a new scratch, the company can charge you for the full damage. I learned this the hard way. Just call the rental office and ask, "What's your process for adding a driver?" It takes five minutes and saves a huge headache.

[OJesse]

It's all about the paperwork. Think of it like this: the rental company only knows and trusts the people whose names are on the agreement. To have someone else return it, you must go to the counter with them at the start. They'll check their license, add them to the contract, and there's a small daily fee. Once that's done, you're in the clear. Skipping this step is a major risk.