Yes, your spouse can typically drive a rental car in Hawaii, but only if they are officially added to the rental agreement at the counter. Simply being married to you does not automatically grant them permission to drive. The process is straightforward but non-negotiable for insurance and liability reasons.
When you pick up the car, your spouse must be present with their valid driver's license. The rental company will run a quick check on their license and add them as an additional authorized driver for a daily fee. This fee varies by company but is a crucial step. If your spouse drives without being on the contract, you violate the agreement. In the event of an accident, the rental company's insurance would likely be void, leaving you personally responsible for all damages.
Most major rental companies have similar policies, but fees and specific requirements can differ. It's a small price for peace of mind, allowing you to share the driving load while exploring the islands safely and legally.
| Rental Company | Additional Driver Fee (Per Day) | Spouse Must Be Present? | License Held Minimum |
|---|
| Enterprise | $15.00 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Hertz | $15.00 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Avis | $15.00 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Budget | $15.00 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Alamo | $15.00 | Yes | 1 Year |
| National | $15.00 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Dollar | $13.50 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Thrifty | $13.50 | Yes | 1 Year |
| Sixt | Varies by location | Yes | 1 Year |
Always check the specific terms of your rental agreement and consider membership programs like AAA or USAA, as they sometimes waive additional driver fees for spouses.
