In most cases, you need to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. However, if you are between 21 and 24 years old, you will almost always face a Young Renter Surcharge—a daily fee that can significantly increase the cost of your rental. The standard age to rent a car without these extra fees is typically 25. A few major rental companies, like Hertz and Enterprise, may rent to 18-20 year-olds in certain locations, but this is rare and comes with strict restrictions and much higher costs.
The primary reason for these age policies is risk assessment. Insurance industry data consistently shows that drivers under 25 are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. To mitigate this financial risk, rental companies impose surcharges or age restrictions.
Age Policies of Major U.S. Rental Companies
| Rental Company | Standard Minimum Age | Young Renter Surcharge (Ages 21-24) | Under-21 Rentals |
|---|
| Enterprise | 21 | ~$25 per day | Not typically offered |
| Hertz | 20 (varies by state/location) | ~$27 per day | Possibly at 18, with major restrictions |
| Avis | 21 (20 in NY & MI) | ~$27 per day | Generally not offered |
| Budget | 21 | ~$27 per day | Generally not offered |
| National | 21 | ~$25 per day | Not typically offered |
If you're under 25, your best strategy is to shop around online and be upfront about your age when getting quotes. The surcharge is usually non-negotiable. Always check if your own auto insurance or the credit card you use to pay for the rental offers any coverage that might waive the rental company's extra insurance requirements. Renting from an airport location sometimes offers more flexibility than a neighborhood branch.
