what do you need to rent a car from sixt

[DeFelicity]

To rent a car from Sixt, you need a valid driver's license, a major credit card in the renter's name, and to meet the minimum age requirement, which is typically 21 but can be higher for certain vehicle classes. A debit card may be used under specific conditions, but a credit card is strongly recommended for a smoother process.

The core requirements are straightforward but non-negotiable. You must present a valid driver's license that you've held for at least one year. An international driver's permit is also required if your license is not in the Roman alphabet or from a non-English speaking country. The second critical item is a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover) in your name. This card is used for the security hold, which can be several hundred dollars on top of the rental cost.

While Sixt does accept debit cards for payment at the end of the rental, it's often subject to additional verification, such as providing recent utility bills or pay stubs, and the security hold will be placed on your bank account, tying up actual funds. Meeting the minimum age requirement is also essential. Although you can rent at 21 in most states, renters under 25 will be charged a Young Renter Fee daily. The table below outlines typical age-related surcharges.

Renter Age	Surcharge (Approximate Daily Fee)	Vehicle Class Restrictions
21-24	$25 - $35	Standard, Intermediate, Full-size, SUVs; Premium/Luxury typically unavailable
25+	$0	All vehicle classes available (subject to license and credit requirements)

You will also need to provide proof of your own insurance or purchase the rental company's coverage. Sixt offers various options, including Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), which covers the rental car against damage or theft, and Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS). It's crucial to check with your personal auto insurance provider and credit card company beforehand to understand what coverage you already have. Finally, always inspect the car for any pre-existing damage with a Sixt agent before driving off the lot.

[LeAlivia]

Make sure your driver's license is valid and you've got a credit card with enough available credit. That's the main thing they check. The hold they place on your card is pretty hefty, so don't max out your card before you go. If you're under 25, just be ready for an extra daily fee. It’s a hassle, but it’s standard.

[BrodyAnn]

When we travel as a family, I always double-check we have two forms of ID: our driver's licenses and the credit card I used to book the rental. I also make a point to ask about car seats when I make the reservation; they have them, but it's an extra cost. The most important step is taking five minutes to walk around the car with the agent and note every single scratch on the rental agreement. It saves a lot of potential stress later.

[BriannaFitz]

As a younger renter, the biggest surprise was the "underage fee." Even though I'm 22, it added a significant amount to the total cost. My advice is to absolutely use a credit card, not a debit card. With a debit card, they put a massive hold on your actual cash, which can mess up your travel budget. Also, your personal insurance might not cover you, so really look into the cost of Sixt's basic coverage options.

[DeGavin]

I always call my credit card company before a trip to confirm my rental car coverage benefits. Many premium cards offer primary coverage, which can save you from buying Sixt's expensive waiver. I also take a quick video on my phone of the car's interior and exterior before I leave the lot, just as an extra layer of protection. Being prepared with your own proof of insurance makes the pickup process much faster.