Renting a car with a restricted license is generally not possible with major rental companies. A standard, valid, and unrestricted driver's license is a universal requirement. A restricted license, often issued for minor violations or to new drivers, indicates limitations like driving only during certain hours or requiring a licensed adult in the passenger seat. These conditions are incompatible with the terms and conditions of major rental agencies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis, which require the primary renter to be fully licensed without restrictions.
The primary reason is liability. Rental companies assume significant risk when handing over a vehicle. A restricted license signals to them that a state has deemed you a higher-risk driver, making you an unacceptable candidate under their insurance and risk management policies. Some companies may even run your license through a verification system that would flag these restrictions immediately.
While major national chains are a definitive no, your only potential avenue lies with smaller, independent rental companies or peer-to-peer car-sharing services like Turo. These smaller operations may have more flexible policies, but this is not the norm. You must call them directly, explain your license's specific restrictions, and get explicit, preferably written, confirmation before attempting to book. Even then, expect higher rates or additional insurance requirements. The most reliable path is to wait until your full driving privileges are reinstated.
| Rental Company/Source | Policy on Restricted Licenses | Key Requirement / Reason |
|---|
| Enterprise Holdings | Not Accepted | Requires a valid, unrestricted license from the primary renter. |
| Hertz Corporation | Not Accepted | Policy mandates a full, valid license in the renter's name for the entire rental period. |
| Avis Budget Group | Not Accepted | License must be valid for at least one year and free of major violations or restrictions. |
| Turo (Peer-to-Peer) | Varies by individual car owner | Entirely at the car owner's discretion; some may allow, but most will not. |
| State of California DMV | Restricted licenses (e.g., for DUI) prohibit renting. | The restriction is typically printed on the license itself, making it invalid for rental. |
| Typical Rental Agreement | Violation of terms | Renting with a restricted license would void the rental contract and any insurance coverage. |
