Yes, someone else can often pick up a rental car for you, but it is not automatic. The primary renter must explicitly add this person as an additional driver to the reservation before pickup. This process involves providing the driver's full name, age, and license details to the rental company, and there is almost always an extra daily fee. The key is setting this up in advance; simply giving your confirmation number to a friend will not work.
The main requirement is that the additional driver must present their own valid driver's license, a major credit card in their name for the security deposit, and sometimes meet other criteria like minimum age (which can be higher than the standard rental age). They will also need a copy of the primary renter's confirmation and a signed statement of authority or an affidavit from you. This is a standard form provided by the rental company to prevent fraud.
Major rental companies have different policies and fees. It's a common practice for business travelers, families, or when you're arriving on a late flight, but failing to pre-arrange it is the most frequent reason for denial at the counter.
| Rental Company | Additional Driver Fee (Approximate Daily Rate) | Online Pre-Enrollment Available? | Key Restrictions |
|---|
| Enterprise | $10 - $15 | Yes | Spouses/domestic partners may drive for free at some locations; must meet age requirements. |
| Hertz | $13 - $15 | Yes | The additional driver must be present at the time of rental with their documents. |
| Avis | $13 - $15 | Yes | Fees and policies can vary by location; check specific rental terms. |
| Budget | $12 - $15 | Yes | Similar to Avis; often requires both parties to be present at counter. |
| National | $10 - $15 | Yes | Emerald Club members may add one additional driver for free. |
| Alamo | $10 - $15 | Yes | Policies are strictly enforced at the counter; no retroactive additions. |
| Sixt | Varies by location | Sometimes | May have different fees for spouses versus other additional drivers. |
| Dollar | $12 - $15 | Yes | Requires a valid credit card in the additional driver's name. |
The most critical step is to call the specific rental location directly. Corporate policies can be interpreted differently by franchise locations, and agent discretion plays a role. Confirming the exact process, required documents, and fees with the branch you are using is the only way to guarantee a smooth pickup for your designated driver.
