Yes, you can almost always add a second driver to a rental car, but it is typically not free. Rental companies charge an additional daily fee for each extra driver, and the primary renter must usually be present at the counter to add them. The specific policies, costs, and eligibility requirements vary significantly by company and are one of the most common unexpected charges for renters.
The core requirement is that any additional driver must meet the same criteria as the primary renter: a valid driver's license, meeting the minimum age requirement (which can be higher than the state minimum), and a satisfactory credit check. The person adding the driver must be the one who booked and signed the rental agreement.
Costs and Restrictions by Major Rental Companies
The following table outlines the typical additional driver fees and key restrictions for some of the largest rental car companies in the U.S. These fees are per day, and the driver must usually be added at the time of pickup.
| Rental Company | Additional Driver Fee (Approx.) | Key Restrictions & Notes |
|---|
| Enterprise | $15 per day | Spouses/domestic partners may be added at no fee at most locations; fee waived for some elite loyalty members. |
| Hertz | $15 per day | Fee is waived for Gold Plus Rewards Five Star® members; spouse/partner fee waiver varies by location. |
| Avis | $15 per day | Fee may be waived for Preferred Plus members; spouse/partner policies are not standardized. |
| Budget | $15 per day | Similar to Avis; check specific location policies regarding spouse/partner waivers. |
| Alamo | $15 per day | Fee may be waived for certain Insiders level members. |
| National | $15 per day | Additional drivers must meet age requirements; elite Emerald Club members can add one for free. |
It is crucial to check the policy of the specific rental location directly, as corporate policies can differ from franchisee rules. For example, a Hertz location at an airport may have a strict fee, while a neighborhood branch might waive it for a spouse. Always declare all drivers. If an unauthorized driver is involved in an incident, the rental company may void any insurance coverage, leaving you fully liable for all damages. The best practice is to review the terms during booking and confirm the process and cost at the rental counter.
