Yes, young drivers can rent cars, but it's often more expensive and comes with specific restrictions. The typical minimum age to rent a vehicle in the U.S. is 21, but for drivers under 25, nearly all major rental companies charge a Young Renter Surcharge—also called an underage fee—which can add a significant daily cost. Your best bets are often smaller, more budget-focused companies or specific program codes that can waive the fee.
The most significant factor is the underage fee. This is a daily charge applied to the rental cost for drivers aged 21-24. The fee varies by company and location but typically ranges from $20 to $50 per day. This can easily double the base cost of a rental. Some companies, like Hertz, offer fee waivers for members of certain organizations (e.g., USAA or through specific university affiliations), so it's crucial to check for eligibility before booking.
Your choice of car category also matters. Rental companies often restrict drivers under 25 from renting premium, luxury, sports cars, or large SUVs. They are typically limited to standard economy or compact cars, which are considered lower-risk vehicles. Booking through third-party sites like Autoslash.com can help compare total costs across companies, as they factor in young driver fees.
| Rental Company | Typical Minimum Age | Underage Fee (21-24) | Common Vehicle Restrictions for Under 25 |
|---|
| Enterprise | 21 | ~$25 per day | Premium, Luxury, Sports, Minivans, SUVs |
| Hertz | 21 | ~$27 per day | Sports, Premium, Luxury, Large SUVs |
| Avis | 21 | ~$27 per day | Specialty and Premium models |
| Budget | 21 | ~$25 per day | Full-size and above, SUVs, Minivans |
| Fox Rent A Car | 18 (in CA & MI) | ~$20 per day | Luxury, Convertibles, SUVs |
Always have your valid driver's license, a major credit card in your name (debit cards are often not accepted for young drivers), and be prepared to show proof of your own insurance or purchase the rental company's coverage. Calling the specific rental location directly is the most reliable way to confirm their policies.
