Typically, the person who rented the car and is listed as the primary driver on the rental agreement is the one who must return it. However, most major rental companies allow someone else to return the vehicle on your behalf, a service often called a third-party return. This flexibility is common but comes with specific conditions that must be met to avoid complications or extra fees.
The key is notifying the rental company in advance. Simply having a friend drop off the car without authorization can lead to the rental being flagged as potentially stolen. When you authorize another driver, the rental company will note this in their system, ensuring a smooth check-in process for the person returning the car.
Authorized Driver Policies
Most companies require that any additional driver, including one making a return, is listed on the rental agreement and meets the same age and license requirements as the primary renter. There is usually an additional driver fee for each extra person authorized to drive the car. The table below outlines the policies of major US rental companies regarding third-party returns.
| Rental Company | Allows Third-Party Return? | Key Requirements & Notes | Additional Driver Fee (Approx.) |
|---|
| Enterprise | Yes | The alternate driver must be present with their own valid license at return. Must be arranged in advance. | $10-$15 per day |
| Hertz | Yes | Authorization must be added to the reservation beforehand. The returning driver must provide ID. | $13-$15 per day |
| Avis | Yes | Prior approval is mandatory. The third party must present a valid driver's license. | Varies by location |
| Budget | Yes | Requires pre-arrangement. The person returning the car will need to sign the check-in paperwork. | Varies by location |
| National | Yes | The primary renter should contact the renting location directly to authorize another driver. | Often waived for Emerald Club members |
Before your trip, always call the specific rental location to confirm their policy. Procedures can vary between corporate-owned and franchisee locations. Ensure the person returning the car has all necessary documents: the rental agreement, their valid driver's license, and the keys. The vehicle will still be checked for damage and the final bill will be charged to the primary renter's form of payment.
