Generally, the person who rents the vehicle (the primary renter) is the one who can drive it. However, most major companies like National Car Rental allow you to add additional drivers for a daily fee, provided they meet the same age, license, and credit requirements. The core requirement is that every potential driver must be a licensed driver with a valid, non-provisional driver's license that has been held for typically a minimum of one year.
The rules primarily hinge on three factors: age, a valid driver's license, and the additional driver policy. Most National locations in the U.S. require the primary renter to be at least 21 years old. Renters under 25 will incur a Young Renter Fee. The license must be written in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) if it's from a non-English speaking country. Spouses or domestic partners are often added for free, but adding a friend, colleague, or another family member usually costs extra per day.
It's critical to understand that letting an unauthorized person drive the rental car is a serious violation of the rental agreement. If an accident occurs with an unlisted driver, it will likely void any insurance coverage (including any you purchased from the rental company or through your credit card), leaving you personally liable for all damages.
Here is a summary of typical requirements across major U.S. rental companies:
| Requirement | Typical Policy | National Car Rental Example |
|---|
| Minimum Age | 21 years old | 21 years old |
| Young Renter Fee Age | Under 25 years old | Under 25 years old |
| License Validity | Must be valid for entire rental period | Minimum 1 year of driving experience |
| International License | Required if license is not in English | International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended |
| Additional Driver Fee | Varies by company and location | Fee often waived for spouse/partner |
| Maximum Number of Drivers | Usually 1-4 additional drivers | Typically up to 3 additional drivers |
Always declare all drivers at the rental counter. The safest approach is to check the specific policies for your rental location directly on National's website or by calling ahead, as state laws and individual franchise rules can cause variations.
