Yes, you can rent a car in Florida if you're under 21, but it is challenging and comes with significant restrictions and extra costs. Most major rental companies set their minimum age at 20, with a few accepting renters as young as 18. However, expect to pay a substantial "young renter fee"—often $25 to $35 per day—on top of the rental cost. You will also face a limited selection of vehicle classes, typically excluding premium, luxury, and SUVs.
The primary hurdle is the underage policy, which is not a state law but a standard practice among rental companies to mitigate risk. To even be considered, you must present a valid driver's license (a U.S. license is strongly preferred), a major credit card in your name (debit cards are rarely accepted for under-21 rentals), and sometimes provide proof of insurance.
| Rental Company | Minimum Age | Young Renter Fee (Approx. Daily) | Vehicle Class Restrictions | Key Requirements |
|---|
| Hertz | 20 | $27 - $35 | Standard and below | Credit card, license |
| Enterprise | 20 | $25 - $30 | Full-size and below | Credit card, license |
| Avis | 20 | $27 - $35 | Intermediate and below | Credit card, license |
| Budget | 20 | $27 - $35 | Intermediate and below | Credit card, license |
| Sixt | 18 | $30 - $40 | Varies by location | Credit card, license, higher deposit |
Your best strategy is to book directly through the official websites of companies like Hertz or Enterprise, as third-party booking sites often have inaccurate age filters. Always call the specific rental location to confirm their policy before booking. Be prepared for a larger security hold on your credit card. Exploring alternatives like peer-to-peer car sharing services (e.g., Turo) can be an option, but their age policies are equally strict, and fees can be even higher.
