Yes, most major rental car companies allow additional drivers, but there are specific rules and typically an extra fee involved. The primary renter must always be present to add a driver, and the additional driver must meet the same age, license, and credit requirements. Policies vary significantly by company and location, so understanding the terms is crucial to avoid violating your rental agreement, which could void insurance coverage.
The primary requirement is that all additional drivers must be officially added to the contract at the rental counter. Letting someone not on the contract drive the car is a serious violation. Rental companies enforce this to manage risk, as their insurance is tied to approved drivers. To add a driver, both the primary renter and the additional driver usually need to present their valid driver's licenses and sometimes a credit card at the counter.
Expect to pay an Additional Driver Fee. This daily fee is standard across the industry, though some companies waive it for a spouse or domestic partner if you are a member of their loyalty program. The cost can add up over a long rental period, so it's a key factor to consider.
The table below compares the additional driver policies and fees for major U.S. rental companies (as of 2023-2024). Note that fees can vary by state and rental location.
| Rental Company | Additional Driver Fee (Per Day) | Spouse/Partner Fee Waiver? | Minimum Age for Additional Drivers | Maximum Number of Additional Drivers |
|---|
| Enterprise Holdings | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Varies by location |
| Hertz | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| Avis | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| Budget | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| Alamo | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| National Car Rental | $0 - $15 | Yes, for all Additional Drivers | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| Thrifty | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| Dollar | $5 - $15 | Yes, for spouses/Domestic Partners | 25 (varies by state) | Usually 3 |
| Sixt | $0 - $12 | Case-by-case basis | 21 (fee may apply under 25) | Usually 3 |
| Fox Rent A Car | $10 - $15 | No | 21 (fee may apply under 25) | Usually 3 |
The financial risk of an unauthorized driver is not worth it. If someone not on the contract gets into an accident, the rental company will likely deny all insurance coverage, leaving you personally liable for all damages to the rental car and other vehicles. Always plan ahead, read the terms carefully, and add any potential drivers at the counter to ensure you're fully protected.
