what do you need to rent a car from enterprise

[Johnathan]

To rent a car from Enterprise in the U.S., you primarily need a valid driver's license, a major credit card (or a debit card with specific conditions), and proof of adequate insurance. You must also meet the minimum age requirement, which is typically 21 but can be higher for certain vehicle classes or locations, often with an additional Young Renter Fee for drivers under 25.

The most critical item is a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) in the renter's name. It's used for the security hold, which is an authorized amount placed on your card at the time of rental. While some locations accept debit cards or prepaid cards, this is often restricted and requires additional documentation, such as proof of a return travel ticket or utility bills, and is generally not allowed for luxury or specialty vehicles.

You must present a valid driver's license that you've held for at least a year. An international driver's license is recommended if your license is not in English. Enterprise also requires you to have liability insurance. You can typically use your own personal auto insurance policy to meet this requirement, but you must provide proof of coverage. Enterprise will offer their own Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) and Liability Insurance Supplement if you decline coverage, which adds to the daily cost but limits your financial responsibility in case of an accident or theft.

The table below outlines the core requirements and associated data points.

Requirement	Details	Notes / Supporting Data
Minimum Age	Typically 21 years old.	Drivers aged 21-24 may face a "Young Renter Fee" (approx. $20-$30 per day). Some locations or vehicle classes require a minimum age of 25.
Driver's License	Valid, government-issued.	Must be held for at least 12 months. International renters need a license in Roman alphabet or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Payment Method	Major credit card in renter's name.	Debit cards may be accepted at time of rental (not reservation) with additional proof of round-trip travel and two current utility bills.
Insurance	Proof of personal auto insurance OR purchase of Enterprise coverage.	LDW can cost $15-$35 per day. Liability Insurance Supplement can range from $10-$20 per day.
Security Hold	Authorization on credit/debit card.	Amount varies by vehicle class; typically $200-$400. This is a hold, not a charge, and is released upon return.
Rental Period	Minimum rental period may apply.	Often a 24-hour minimum, with grace periods for returns (e.g., 29-minute grace period at most locations).

It's always best to call the specific Enterprise location ahead of your rental date to confirm their policies, especially if you plan to use a debit card or are under 25.

[DeDonovan]

Just went through this last week. You absolutely need your driver's license and a credit card—not a debit card, they made that super clear. The card has to be in your name. They put a pretty hefty hold on it, too, like $300 for my midsize SUV. I'm 26, so I didn't have to pay that under-25 fee, but my buddy who's 23 said it added like $25 a day. They'll ask about insurance; I used my own, but they'll sell you theirs if you want.

[StephenFitz]

Think of it like proving you're a reliable driver. The essentials are your valid license and a credit card for the security deposit. If you're under 25, budget for an extra daily fee. The insurance part is key: check with your own provider before you go to see if rental cars are covered. If not, Enterprise's coverage is straightforward but adds cost. Always inspect the car for any existing damage with an employee before you drive off.

[DiEmmett]

As someone who rents for work, efficiency is everything. My checklist is short but non-negotiable: my driver's license, the corporate credit card, and my personal insurance card. I always refuse the additional insurance because our company policy covers rentals. The process is fast if you have these ready. I also use the Enterprise app to complete the check-in steps ahead of time. The only delay is the vehicle inspection, which you should never skip.

[Ursula]

Renting a car is about managing risk for both you and the company. Here’s the breakdown from that angle:

Documentation: Your license verifies you’re legally allowed to drive. The credit card requirement is primarily for the security hold, which protects Enterprise against unforeseen costs like tolls, tickets, or damage you might be responsible for later.

Financial Responsibility: The minimum age requirement and young renter fees are based on actuarial data that shows a higher risk associated with younger drivers. It's not personal, just business.

Insurance Options: When they ask if you want to waive their Loss Damage Waiver, they’re asking if you’re willing to assume the financial risk yourself. Using your own insurance means your deductible applies. Their LDW shifts that risk back to them for a daily fee. It’s a calculated choice.

Risk Factor	Enterprise's Mitigation	Your Responsibility
Driver Qualification	Valid License Check	Ensure license is current and not expired.
Financial Security	Credit Card Hold	Have sufficient available credit on your card.
Vehicle Damage	Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)	Decide to accept risk or purchase LDW.
Liability Claims	Liability Insurance Supplement	Provide proof of personal insurance or purchase theirs.
Young Driver Risk	Young Renter Fee	Factor this extra cost into your budget if under 25.

The entire process is designed to clearly establish who is financially responsible for what before you leave the lot.