To rent a car from Enterprise, you need to be at least 21 years old in most states, possess a valid driver's license, and have a major credit or debit card in your name for the security deposit. Drivers under 25 will incur a Young Renter Fee. The core requirements are straightforward, focusing on age, a valid license, and a payment method.
The most critical document is a valid driver's license. You must have held it for at least a year. For renters using a debit card, the process involves a more thorough check. Enterprise will perform a credit check to verify creditworthiness and may require additional proof of identity, like a utility bill, and proof of a return travel ticket. A larger security hold will be placed on your funds compared to a credit card transaction.
Insurance is a key consideration. Enterprise offers its own damage and liability waivers for an additional daily fee. However, you can often decline these if your personal auto insurance policy already covers rental cars. It's crucial to check with your insurer beforehand. Many major credit cards also provide secondary rental car insurance if you use that card for the entire transaction.
Here’s a quick overview of the primary requirements:
| Requirement Category | Specific Details | Notes / Variations |
|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 years old | Age 20 for active/relocating military; under-25 fee applies. |
| Driver's License | Valid, in renter's name, held for > 1 year. | International renters need a valid license from home country and, often, an International Driving Permit. |
| Payment Method | Credit card (Visa, MC, AmEx, Discover) or Debit card. | Debit cards are accepted but subject to stricter rules and credit checks. Prepaid cards are not accepted for the initial hold. |
| Proof of Insurance | Optional if waiving Enterprise coverage. | You must provide proof from your personal insurer if declining their Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). |
| Security Deposit Hold | Varies by car class, typically $200-$400. | The hold is placed on your card at pickup and released upon return, minus the rental cost. |
| Additional Documentation (Debit Card Users) | Two forms of secondary ID, proof of return travel, proof of residence. | Requirements can vary by location. |
Before your rental, always call the specific branch to confirm their policies, especially if you're using a debit card or are under 25, as local rules can differ.
