
Yes, you can rent a car at 24 from most major rental companies in the United States. However, you will almost always be charged a Young Renter Fee, which is a daily surcharge because drivers under 25 are statistically considered a higher risk. This fee typically ranges from $20 to $35 per day, significantly increasing the total cost of your rental. While you have access to the rental company's fleet, some car classes, like premium luxury vehicles or high-end sports cars, may still be restricted to renters aged 25 and older.
The primary factor is the rental company's corporate policy. Major agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis generally permit 24-year-olds to rent, but their specific rules can vary. To rent, you must present a valid driver's license that you've held for at least one year (some companies require a two-year history), a major credit card in your name for the security deposit, and sometimes additional proof of insurance.
It's crucial to shop around and be transparent about your age when booking. Using comparison sites or memberships like USAA or AAA can sometimes waive the young renter fee. Always read the full terms and conditions before confirming your reservation to avoid surprises at the counter.
| Rental Company | Minimum Age to Rent | Young Renter Fee (Under 25) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | 21 | ~$25 per day | Must have held license for 1+ years. |
| Hertz | 20 | ~$27 per day | Fee may be waived for certain club members. |
| Avis | 21 | ~$27 per day | Some locations may have higher age minimums. |
| Budget | 21 | ~$27 per day | Luxury vehicles often restricted to 25+. |
| National | 21 | ~$25 per day | Fee waived for USAA members. |

Absolutely, but get ready for the "young driver" fee. I rented a car last month at 24, and it was an extra $30 a day. It stings, but it’s standard. Just book online and be upfront about your age. The key is having your own credit card—debit cards are a huge hassle. Call the specific location you're picking up from to confirm their policy; sometimes it varies.

From a cost perspective, renting at 24 is feasible but more expensive. The base rate you see advertised is rarely the final price. The mandatory Young Renter Fee can double the daily cost on a budget rental. To mitigate this, check if your auto insurance policy or credit card offers rental coverage, as this can save you money on the insurance they try to sell you at the counter. Always compare total costs, not just the initial quote.

The legal answer is yes, but the practical answer involves hurdles. Beyond the fee, your choice of vehicles might be limited. You probably won't be able to rent a fancy sports car or a large SUV. The most important thing is your license and payment method. Make sure your driver's license hasn’t been expired for long and that you have a credit card with a high enough limit to cover the security hold they place on it.


