To rent a car from Enterprise in the U.S., you primarily need a valid driver's license, a major credit or debit card in your name, and to meet the minimum age requirement, which is typically 21 but can be higher for certain vehicle classes. Providing proof of adequate insurance is also a key step.
The most critical item is a valid driver's license. If you are an international customer, you will need your home country's license along with a valid passport; an International Driving Permit is often recommended but not always mandatory if your license is in English.
Payment is almost always handled with a credit or debit card in the renter's name. Enterprise will place a hold (an authorization amount) on your card at the time of rental, which is significantly higher than the rental cost itself. This hold covers potential fuel charges and other incidentals. While debit cards are accepted, they often come with stricter requirements, such as additional proof of return travel.
You must meet Enterprise's age requirements. The minimum age to rent is generally 21, but renters under 25 will incur a "Young Renter Fee" daily. Some locations, like those near airports, may have a higher minimum age of 25.
While not something you "bring," you must decide on insurance. Enterprise offers several options, like a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which is not insurance but a agreement that limits your financial responsibility for the vehicle if it's damaged or stolen. You can typically use your own personal auto insurance if it covers rental cars, or a credit card's rental insurance benefit. It's crucial to understand your coverage before declining Enterprise's offerings.
| Requirement | Key Details | Supporting Data / Notes |
|---|
| Driver's License | Must be valid and issued by your home country. | International renters need a passport; an IDP is strongly advised for non-English licenses. |
| Payment Method | Credit/debit card in renter's name for security hold. | Authorization holds can range from $200 to $500+ on top of the rental cost. |
| Minimum Age | Standard minimum is 21 years old. | Renters aged 21-24 pay a Young Renter Fee, approximately $20-$30 per day. |
| Insurance/LDW | Proof of personal insurance or purchase of Enterprise's coverage. | LDW can cost $15-$30 per day. Liability Insurance is often a separate purchase. |
| Debit Card Use | Accepted but with additional checks. | Requires proof of round-trip travel (airline ticket) and two recent utility bills. |
| Booking Reservation | Not required but highly recommended. | A confirmed reservation guarantees vehicle availability, especially during peak seasons. |
