If you’re wondering, “How old do you have to be to rent a car?” in Europe and the US, the standard rental age is usually 21. However, there are European countries like Portugal and France and certain US states, such as New York, where the minimum age is as low as 18.

This guide covers the age requirements and potential surcharges for young drivers and offers tips for renting a car if you’re under 25.

Key takeaways

The standard minimum age to rent a car in most European countries and the US is typically 21. Some European countries and US states allow car rental at 18.
Renting a car if you’re under 25 isn’t a problem for most car rental companies. However, an additional daily driver fee typically applies.
Car-sharing is emerging as a popular alternative to traditional car rental. With services like Bolt Drive, drivers at least 20 years of age can rent a car by the hour or day with no additional fees through an app.

How old do you have to be to rent a car? | Age guide

For most European countries, the standard minimum rental age is 21. Many car rental companies follow this rule across the continent, with exceptions in countries such as France, Germany, and Portugal, where the minimum age can be as low as 18.

This policy is mainly because drivers under 25 are often considered high risk according to statistical data, which points to a higher likelihood of accidents within this age group.

As a result, car rental companies have established a higher minimum age for renting a car as part of their risk management strategy. They also typically impose a young driver surcharge to offset the increased insurance risk.

In the US, the minimum age requirement to rent a car is 21 in most states, following a similar rationale. However, specific states, such as New York and Michigan, have regulations that lower the age limit to 18 for car rentals, providing opportunities for younger drivers. Despite these state-specific exceptions, young driver fees are still common in the US.

The car rental process can thus seem overwhelming, especially for younger drivers.

This guide aims to clarify age requirements across various rental companies, explain associated fees, and offer practical steps for drivers under 25 years of age looking to rent a car.

Continue reading to gain insight into the complexities of how to rent a car, especially if you’re under 25.

Minimum rental age requirements by major car rental companies

A young man and a girl moving towards a rental car.

While the common minimum age for car rental is typically 21, several major rental companies have specific age requirements that may vary depending on the country within Europe and the type of renter.

In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the minimum age requirements set by major rental companies like:

Hertz
Europcar
Sixt
Avis
Budget

Hertz

Hertz caters to drivers over 25, but they make exceptions in most locations for those aged 21–24, albeit with an additional young renter fee. The exact surcharge and restrictions on vehicle classes for younger drivers vary by rental location.

Europcar

Europcar typically sets the minimum age requirement at 21. Renters under 25 years of age may incur a young renter fee. The selection of rental vehicles available to younger drivers may be limited, and the surcharge amount differs by rental location.

Sixt

Sixt allows individuals aged 21 and over to rent a car, provided they have had a valid driving licence for at least 1–2 years. Again, in some countries like Estonia, Latvia, or Portugal, Sixt’s minimum age requirement is lower, at 19; in Monaco, it’s 18. A young renter fee applies to those under 25, and the range of available vehicles may be restricted.

Avis

Avis permits rentals from drivers aged 21 and up with a valid driving licence and a credit card in most countries. They also impose a young renter fee for those under 25, varying the surcharge amount by rental location.

Budget

Budget’s minimum age for car rentals is also 21 in most European countries. Drivers under 25 years of age are subject to an additional fee. The exact surcharge and the availability of certain vehicle types vary by rental location.

Young renter fee explained

A young driver standing next to a car and smiling. Young renter fee explained in the following paragraph.

A young driver surcharge, also known as a young renter fee, is an additional cost that most car rental companies impose on drivers under 25.

These fees are levied because this age group statistically has a higher risk of accidents. The young renter fee can vary greatly, typically from €5 to €40 per day, depending on the company and rental location.

We’ll now discuss the concept of a young driver fee, its typical cost, and strategies to minimise or avoid these charges.

What is a young driver surcharge or young renter fee?

A young renter fee refers to an additional charge applied to drivers from 18 to 25 years of age.

It’s added to offset the increased risk and higher insurance claims associated with younger drivers. It’s important to note that this fee is not related to the individual’s driving record but is based on broader statistics indicating younger drivers are more prone to accidents.

How much is the young renter fee?

The fee varies by rental company and renting location, but typically, young driver fees range from €5 to €40 per day.

Ways to avoid or reduce the young renter fee

Young drivers can employ certain strategies to avoid the fee. Joining certain membership programmes or associations can sometimes help waive or reduce it. Moreover, some rental companies offer promotions or discounts for students, which can help lower or eliminate the underage fee, making it more affordable.

Additionally, in countries where car-sharing services are available, drivers can rent a car at 20 years of age. Let’s take a look.

Car-sharing as an alternative to traditional rentals

A young man and a woman standing next to a Bolt Drive rental car. The woman is holding a smartphone in her hand.

While attractive for drivers of any age, car-sharing is gaining momentum among young adults not yet in their mid-twenties.

Services like Bolt Drive set their minimum age requirement at 20 and don’t have a young renter fee. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a more classy ride, consider that most mobility apps don’t allow renters under the age of 25 to rent premium cars.

Advantages of car-sharing

Car-sharing might provide several benefits, especially for younger drivers:

Flexibility to rent a car by the hour or day;
No long-term commitment or hefty deposits — simply download an app;
Often more affordable than traditional car rentals for short usage periods.

To rent a car with Bolt Drive, you’ll need:

The Bolt app, available in AppStore and Google Play;
A valid driving licence held for at least a year;
A payment method in good standing, such as a credit under the same name as your licence.

Renting a car under 25: steps and tips

A young driver in under 25 years of age a rental car together with a young passenger.

Whenever you opt for traditional car rental or car-sharing, let’s look at the main steps for renting a car. The process involves making a reservation, bringing or verifying the required documentation, and understanding your insurance needs.

Reservation process — traditional car rental

The reservation process is simple. Here’s how it works:

You’ll have to fill out the reservation information, including pickup and drop-off locations, rental dates and times, and choose your rental car.
Provide your personal and payment information to complete the reservation.
A credit card number is typically required for the reservation.

Starting a reservation can also help you determine the exact young renter fee.

Required documentation — an ID, a valid driving licence, a credit card

When picking up your rental car, bring a valid driving licence and a credit or debit card.

Your driving licence should be in good standing and, as a rule, held for over a year. Note that additional driving licence requirements are sometimes applied for some car classes, like premium cars.

Also, the name on the debit or credit card should match the name on the licence. Some locations may specifically require a credit card, so it’s important to check the rental company’s policy on debit card usage.

Insurance considerations

Before starting your road trip in a rental car, ensure you’re well-versed with the available insurance options. Review the insurance options the rental company provides and understand what’s covered. This will protect you against unexpected costs or liabilities during the rental period.

Reservation process — car-sharing

With car-sharing services like Bolt Drive, the vehicle reservation process is as easy as downloading the app, uploading and verifying your valid driving licence, and choosing the rental car you’d like to ride in.

There’s no additional fee for drivers under 25 years of age — the price in the app is always final and includes fuel, parking, and insurance.

Special cases and exceptions

A woman hands overs rental car keys to a driver.

While the standard age requirements and fees for car rentals are relatively uniform across Europe, notable exceptions and special cases can vary by country and rental company.

These exceptions can include variations for corporate account holders and specific insurance replacement rentals. Let’s delve into these exceptions.

Corporate accounts

Corporate clients often have agreements with car rental companies that can provide a range of benefits, which may include:

Preferential rates;
Waived fees for young drivers;
Expedited rental services;
Access to premium car categories.

Employees should inquire with their company about any existing partnerships with car rental firms to understand the specific benefits they may receive when renting a vehicle.

Insurance replacement rentals

Renting a car as a replacement vehicle through an insurance provider is often necessary when an individual’s vehicle is under repair. During such rentals, underage fees, typically charged to renters under 25, can sometimes be a concern.

Vehicle options for young renters

A young renter looking outside of her renter car window.

A variety of car classes are available for young renters. Depending on the country and company, a less experienced younger driver can rent cars from the following car classes:

Mini
Economy
Compact
Standard
Intermediate
Full-size cars
Wagons
Vans
Certain SUVs

However, it’s important to note that some rental companies may limit the types of vehicles available to young renters. We’ll examine these vehicle options in more detail.

Economy and compact cars

Economy and compact cars are excellent choices for young renters looking for fuel efficiency and affordability. A small compact car is easy to manoeuvre and thus perfect for city driving. It’s also a breeze when it comes to parking on busy streets — a small space is all you need.

Compact cars like the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A2, Hyundai i30, or Skoda Skala are a great match for your city trips.

SUVs and larger vehicles

SUVs and larger vehicles might be a better fit for those needing more space or planning a road trip. Most rental companies, along with car-sharing apps, offer a range of vehicles for renters aged 18 to 24, including:

SUVs
Cars
Vans
Trucks

However, some speciality car classes might be excluded for under-25 renters at certain companies.

Speciality vehicles

Renters under 25 might face restrictions on speciality or high-end vehicles. It’s always a good idea to check the rental company’s policy on speciality vehicle classes.

Renting a сar at 18 in Europe

Two young drivers on the roof of their rental car in Europe enjoying the sunset.

What if you’re 18 and need to rent a car in Europe? Well, you’re in luck! Many European countries — France, Portugal, Monaco, and Germany, to name just a few — allow 18-year-olds to rent cars.

But expect to pay an additional fee, and, as mentioned earlier, there may be additional requirements to your driving licence (issued over a year or two ago from the start of rent) and restrictions on the car groups and coverage options available to you.

Tips for first-time young renters

While renting a car for the first time can be exhilarating, it might also seem intimidating, especially when navigating age requirements and fees.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with some helpful tips for your first car rental experience.

Choosing the appropriate car class and the right car

Selecting the appropriate car class and the car can significantly enhance your rental experience. Consider factors like:

Vehicle size;
Transmission — manual or automatic;
Number of passengers;
Luggage space;
Car safety features.

If you’re uncomfortable or inexperienced in driving larger vehicles, opt for a smaller car. Also, consider the car’s fuel efficiency to save on fuel costs.

Understanding rental agreements

It’s vital you understand the rental agreement to avoid surprises. Always thoroughly read the agreement to understand the terms, conditions, and potential fees. Check the insurance provisions, verify driver information, add additional drivers if needed, and look for mileage limits.

Ensure the rental period and return time are clearly stated, and return the rental car with the same fuel level as when you picked it up to avoid extra charges.

Maintaining the rental car

A young driver maintaining his rental car.

After getting the keys to your rental car, keeping it in good condition is essential. Following these simple maintenance tips can help you avoid unnecessary issues during your rental period:

Regularly inspect the car;
Check the tyre pressure and fluid levels frequently to ensure the car’s safety and performance;
Use your senses to detect issues, such as listening for unusual noises and checking for warning lights.

In conclusion, while renting a car under 25 can seem complicated due to age requirements and extra fees, understanding these rules can make the process much smoother.

Remember to check the rental company’s age requirements and costs, bring the necessary documentation, understand your insurance options, and choose the right rental car for your needs.

FAQs about the age requirement to rent a car

What is the general minimum age for renting a car?

The general minimum age to rent a car is typically 21. However, there are exceptions like Portugal, Germany, France, and some US states where the minimum age to rent a car can be as low as 18.

What is a young driver fee?

A young driver fee is an extra charge for drivers aged 18 to 25, reflecting the higher risk of accidents in this age group. Be aware of this fee when renting a car.

How can I avoid or reduce young driver fees?

You can avoid or reduce young driver fees by using car-sharing platforms, joining membership programmes, or taking advantage of student promotions or coupon codes offered by rental companies.

What type of vehicle can I rent as a young renter?

As a young renter, you can generally rent economy, compact, intermediate, standard, and full-size cars and specific SUVs. However, some rental companies might limit access to high-end or speciality vehicles.

Is there a maximum age limit for renting a car?

While there’s a general focus on minimum age requirements, some rental companies also have maximum age limits. These limits can vary by country and rental company, but they’re often set at 70 or 75 years of age. We recommend checking with the specific rental company for their policies regarding senior drivers.

How old do you have to be to rent a car? Age guide

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