can you drive a rental car if you're under 25

[VonElijah]

Yes, you can typically rent a car if you're under 25, but it almost always comes with a mandatory Young Renter Fee (also called an underage surcharge). This daily fee, which can range from $20 to $50, is charged on top of the rental cost because drivers under 25 are statistically considered a higher risk. Major rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis have policies allowing renters as young as 20 or 21, but you must meet stricter requirements, including holding your own valid driver's license for a minimum period (usually one year) and often using a major credit card in your name.

The process is more restrictive than for older renters. You'll generally be limited to specific vehicle classes, excluding premium cars, luxury models, SUVs, and minivans. The most affordable path is often to book directly with the rental company and be prepared to present all required documentation at the counter. Renting from airport locations can sometimes offer more flexibility than neighborhood branches. To avoid surprises, always disclose your age when booking online and read the full terms and conditions regarding the young renter policy.

Rental Company	Minimum Age to Rent	Typical Young Renter Fee (Per Day)	Common Vehicle Class Restrictions
Hertz	20 (at most locations)	$25 - $35	Premium, Luxury, Certain SUVs
Enterprise	21 (18 in MI & NY)	$20 - $30	Premium, Luxury, Exotics
Avis	21 (18 in NY)	$27 - $35	Full-size and above, Premium, Luxury
Budget	21 (18 in NY)	$27 - $35	Full-size and above, Premium, Luxury
Dollar	20	$25 - $30	Full-size and above, Premium

[AutumnRose]

It's a hassle, honestly. I just went through this for a trip to Florida. I'm 22, and the extra fee was like throwing money away—around $30 a day. I used Enterprise, and the process was fine, but they limited me to a compact or midsize car. No fancy upgrades for us "young" drivers. The key was having my own credit card; they wouldn't accept a debit card. It's totally doable, just more expensive and with more rules.

[VonHazel]

Look, the short answer is yes, but budget for the "young driver tax." My advice is to skip the third-party booking sites. Go straight to the rental company's website, enter your real birthdate, and see the final price with all fees included. That’s the only way to know the true cost. Also, stick to basic economy cars. Trying to rent a Mustang or a big SUV will either be impossible or cost a fortune in surcharges. It’s all about managing expectations.

[Long]

As a recent grad who rents for work, I've learned a few tricks. First, check if your employer or any professional organizations you belong to have corporate discount codes; these can sometimes waive or reduce the underage fee. Second, if you have USAA membership, some companies like Hertz waive the fee entirely for members. Finally, always book in advance. Last-minute rentals for under-25s are the most expensive and have the least vehicle choice. A little planning saves a lot of money.

[AdelineRose]

The biggest thing is reading the fine print on insurance. Your personal auto insurance might cover rental cars, but verify the details before you decline the rental company's coverage. If you're using a credit card for rental coverage, call the issuer to confirm it applies to drivers under 25. Some policies have age exclusions. Paying an unnecessary daily fee for insurance you already have is the worst way to blow your budget. Be an informed consumer and ask these questions upfront.