Yes, you can rent a car with a DUI on your record, but it is significantly more difficult and not guaranteed. Most major rental companies will check your driving record, and a recent DUI is a major red flag that often leads to an automatic denial. Your success depends on the company's specific policies, how long ago the conviction occurred, and whether your license is currently valid.
The primary tool rental companies use is a soft check of your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). They are looking for a clean record, but a DUI is a serious violation. Companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis typically have corporate policies that prohibit renting to individuals with a major violation like a DUI within the past 24 to 60 months. Some smaller, independent rental agencies or "non-standard" rental services (often located near repair shops or airports) may be more lenient, but they often charge higher rates and require additional deposits.
If your license was suspended due to the DUI, it must be fully reinstated. You may also be required to file an SR-22 form, which is a certificate of financial responsibility proving you have the state-required minimum insurance.
Strategies to Improve Your Chances:
- Be Proactive and Honest: Call local branches directly and ask to speak with a manager about their policy. Do not attempt to rent online and hope they don't check; this will likely result in denial and a wasted trip.
- Consider Smaller Companies: Larger airport locations are often the strictest. Look for local, independent agencies.
- Prepare for Higher Costs: Expect to pay a substantial security deposit, sometimes hundreds of dollars, which is refundable upon the car's safe return.
- Provide Additional Documentation: Having your full reinstatement paperwork and SR-22 form (if applicable) ready can demonstrate responsibility.
| Factor | Impact on Rental Approval | Details |
|---|
| Recency of DUI | Critical | Convictions within past 2-5 years are most likely to result in denial. |
| Rental Company Policy | High | Major chains (Hertz, Enterprise) have strict corporate policies; local agencies may be flexible. |
| License Status | Mandatory | Your license must be valid, current, and reinstated without restrictions. |
| Security Deposit | Variable | Smaller companies may require a deposit ranging from $200 to $500 or more. |
| SR-22 Requirement | Indicator | Needing an SR-22 shows a past violation but also proves current compliance with state law. |
Ultimately, renting a car post-DUI requires extra effort, patience, and a willingness to accept more expensive and less convenient options. There is no way to bypass the MVR check with major companies.
