Under 21 Car Rental in the USA

Rent a car at 20 years old and less in any US location with a starting price of $6 per day!

Best price for most cars

Free cancellation or amendment

No hidden charges

Breakdown assistance

Car logo
Enter pick-up location
3

Rent a car in the USA if you are under 21 with Rental24h.com

Renting a car and taking a road trip is a great way to spend your vacation, especially if you are a young adventure seeker. However, age can be a barrier, because many providers don’t allow drivers under 25 to rent from their fleets. Luckily, Rental24h.com is the place where young travelers can find the right deal to suit their needs.

On our website, you can rent a car at 21 and under this age, making it simple to get to your desired destination. The cheapest price for an Economy car is found in Miami on Rental24h.com. It costs $18 per day. To find exact rates for your desired dates and location, please fill out the search form at the top of the page. Also, you can check the cheapest offers across the USA in the following catalog.

from $6 per day
Compact
5 Adults, 3 Bags
Miami - Airport
from $7 per day
Economy
5 Adults, 2 Bags
Miami - Airport
from $8 per day
SUV
7 Adults, 3 Bags
Fort Lauderdale - Airport
from $9 per day
Standard
5 Adults, 4 Bags
Orlando - Airport
from $18 per day
Full Size
5 Adults, 4 Bags
Orlando - Airport
from $18 per day
VAN
7 Adults, 3 Bags
Miami - Airport
from $31 per day
Luxury
5 Adults, 3 Bags
West Palm Beach Airport
from $37 per day
Convertible
4 Adults, 2 Bags
Orlando - Airport
from $45 per day
Exotic
6 Adults, 4 Bags
Tampa - Airport
from $58 per day
Mini
7 Adults, 4 Bags
San Francisco - Airport

How old do you have to be to rent a car in the USA?

Basically, the U.S. age policy suggests that the driver’s minimum car rental age is 21 years old. Enterprise, Advantage, Sixt, Avis, Europcar, Budget, National and many other providers are authorized to rent cars for users who are 21-24 years of age and even younger.

However, each rule has exceptions, and the pleasant news is that car rental under age 21 is at the disposal of youngsters. As stated by the age limits of Dollar, Hertz, and Thrifty, the driver’s minimum age is 20 years old in order to pick up a car - this applies to most destinations in the United States. What about those who are under 20 years old? In most cases, young 18-19-year old travelers are banned from picking up a car on United States territory. As an exception, the New York (NY) and Michigan (MI) States legislatures allow people under the age of 18 to drive rental transport.

Also, special age conditions are enjoyed by military and official government employees for work needs. Those who fall under the action of government / military car rental under 21 rules can pick up a car starting at the age of 18 at any location in the USA and at special discount rates.

Car rental age requirements in the United States

Are you a young driver looking for a car rental in the USA? The minimum age depends on the legislation of a particular state. For your reference, we have attached below a US map which indicates the minimum car rental age for each state.

Car rental for 18 year old drivers

Now, it is possible to drive a rental car at 18 with Rental24h.com. Сertain car rental companies started renting cars to 18-year-old drivers not only in New York and Michigan states, but also in Oregon, South Dakota, Arkansas, Utah, and Arizona. Enterprise is among those car rental places that allow rental car services for renters at the age of 18 in the aforementioned states. So, whether you're traveling to Little Rock, Phoenix, Tucson, Detroit or any other city, make sure to choose Enterprise for your rental needs!

On top of that, there are some memberships or programs, including USAA and Student Advantage, that allow young drivers to rent a car at 18 years old in any location. However, car availability and rental policies may vary by pick-up location and company, so it's always best to check with the specific rental agency.

Do I need to have certain documents to rent a car in the USA under 21?

When it comes to rental policy, a company's documentary requirements apply to drivers of all ages. Each customer - regardless of age, country of residence, and driving experience - must have certain documents on hand in order to legally pick up a car. They include a photo ID to verify identity, a driver's license, a credit or debit card, a confirmation voucher, and insurance. For more details on documentary requirements, see the following list.

  • To rent a car for customers under 21, the driver must present a license which has been valid for at least 12 months. Furthermore,the customer's driving record must be clear of accidents and other major road incidents. Otherwise, the provider may refuse the rental. An International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required for overseas drivers.
  • You must provide your passport, which serves as a way to verify your identity.
  • Pay special attention to insurance. If you can't find cheap car insurance for under 21 drivers, try an alternative coverage. On the other hand, if you have active insurance and don’t plan to buy a protection plan from the company you're renting from, you must confirm that you have active insurance by presenting the appropriate documents.
  • Suppliers often limit young drivers' access to higher car categories as part of their policy. Therefore, full-size SUVs, VANs, and exotic, premium, and luxury models may not be available in a certain location if you are under 21 years old.

Сar rental locations for 20 year olds

With high-quality roads and good signage, the United States is a perfect place to drive. And no matter what destination you choose, you can expect an exciting ride full of unforgettable moments. However, traffic is something you should consider when planning your trip.

Greensboro in North Carolina, Wichita in Kansas, and Lincoln in Nebraska are the easiest cities to get around. On the other hand, Atlanta in Georgia, and San Francisco and Los Angeles in California, feature the highest levels of traffic. Also, keep in mind that some roads are tolled, which may affect your travel budget.

If you still haven’t decided where to start your trip, check the most popular locations for car rental in the USA under 21. You can click on the desired destination to find more information about a specific pick-up point.

Best car rental rates for under 21 year old drivers in the US

The exact cost depends mainly on the car category. The average rate for Economy cars varies from $14 to $29 per day for drivers under 21 years of age. Mid-size SUVs range in price between $19 and $46 per day, while luxury models cost between $53 and $129 per day.

Renting a car under 21 years old is usually more costly, due to an additional fee which is applied to young drivers. The amount of this surcharge depends on the provider and accounts for a significant part of the daily cost. Also, companies may require full insurance, which takes from 10% to 50% of the reservation value. Keep in mind that company pricing, car availability, and seasonal demand also affect how much you pay.

To avoid high age surcharges, check the conditions of all accessible companies in the desired location. Concessions for special groups of renters are the next way to save. This applies to government and military renters, which benefit from using the service anywhere in the USA, starting from the age of 18.

Also, some suppliers have particular offers for corporate customers. For example, Avis cancels the young drivers’ fee for 18-24 years old renters who are USAA members. In turn, Hertz doesn’t withdraw age charges for 20-24 years old AAA members.

Would you like to check the exact cost for your desired dates? Please fill out the search form on our website!

How to get a rental car under 21 in the United States?

Vigilant planning is the key to a headache-free journey. Therefore, get ready to meet established qualifications, and provide some important things so that car rental under 21 years of age with Rental24h.com will bring you only positive experience:

  • At least 20 year of age is required (18 when renting in NY or MI).
  • An actual license that has been used for more than a year without big endorsements needs to be provided.
  • A valid debit or credit card under the major driver’s name is also a must-have thing.

Once you meet these preconditions, your under 21 car rental can be arranged in 3 easy steps:

1. SEARCH

Search for the car in the desired location, and according to the dates when you need it. Compare nearby pick-up spots to find a money-saving option. Use filters to select the exact vehicle that meets your criteria.

2. RESERVE

Fill in your contact and payment information and book your rental car. Don't forget to print your voucher and take it with you.

3. PICK UP

Upon arrival at your destination, find the company’s desk. Then, show your driver's license, credit card, and voucher. After that, the employee will gladly give you the keys to your car!

Rental24h.com allows you to count on savings. Here’re some tips to make car rental cheaper:

  • Search for the hottest offers 1-2 weeks prior to the actual date
  • Try car rental offers from different providers
  • Choose compact, mini, or economy car
  • Use full-to-full fuel option
  • Compare the rates in the neighboring locations
  • Avoid one-way deals
  • Save with long-term rentals
  • Check out your insurance
  • Find additional discounts and promotions

What rental car companies rent to under 21 drivers in the United States?

You probably wouldn’t want to stop in the middle of the Death Valley, or somewhere in the highlands of the Rocky Mountains due to a car breakdown. Thus, a reliable and highly trusted supplier is what every potential driver is searching for. The list of vendors is very long, and it’s absolutely problematic to find really worthwhile rental car companies that allow under 21 drivers among them.

National, Thrifty, Avis, Hertz, Payless, Advantage, Alamo, Enterprise, Dollar, Budget and NU are those providers who are supportive of young drivers. Especially for you, we have listed all American under 21 car rental companies with their customer ratings:

Which is the best car rental company to hire a car at 20 years old in the USA?

In order to choose the best provider, there are a few crucial criteria to keep in mind. When you rent a car at 19, 20, or any age under 25, companies apply a young driver fee which can be as high as 50% of the daily booking value. Thus, choosing the cheapest underage charge can be a determining factor in finding the right company. In this sense, Dollar and Thrifty are the best agencies, with the cheapest daily fee of about $15 per day.

Also, you can consider a company's rating, which is based on customer reviews. This rating is displayed next to every deal on our website. According to the customer rating, the best company to rent from in cities like New York, Las Vegas and Orlando is Alamo, which has scored 8.6/10 points. Other providers in the TOP-3 list include Europcar (8.6/10) and Firefly (8.6/10).

How much is a young driver fee in the USA?

The exact cost of the underage surcharge depends on the company. Check out the extra fees applied by popular providers below.

Alamo

  • Alamo will charge a youthful fee of about $20 per day in most US locations.
  • In Michigan, the charge is $13-34, while in New York it reaches $20-57 per day.
  • Alamo allows young drivers under the age of 21 to rent Economy through Full Size vehicles.

Avis

  • When traveling with Avis, the daily young renter's fee is $27 per day.
  • The exceptions are New York, where you will pay $84, and Michigan, with an extra charge of $41 per day.
  • Drivers younger than 25 are not allowed to hire luxury, exotic, sports cars, vans, and some SUVs (usually with Long Wheel Base).

Budget

  • If you pick up a car rental under 21 in the USA from Budget, be prepared to pay an underage fee of $27 per day in most states.
  • In Michigan and New York, the surcharge is $41 and $52 per day, respectively.
  • Customers under 25 are not allowed to hire luxury, exotic, sports cars, vans and SUVs.

Dollar

  • Dollar charges $29 per day as a young driver's fee.
  • In Michigan, the exact amount depends on the specific location, and in New York, it reaches $52 per day.
  • Drivers under 25 are not allowed to hire luxury, exotic, sports cars and also Long Wheel Base Vans.

Enterprise

  • According to Enterprise's age policy, drivers aged 21 to 24 will be charged around $25 per day.
  • For locations in Michigan and New York, this daily payment is $40 and $64.75, respectively.
  • Young drivers are not allowed to hire intermediate, luxury, exotic, sports cars, vans and SUVs.

FOX

  • FOX charges additional $20-25 per day if you are under 21 years old.
  • In New York State, you will have to pay an additional $80 per day as an under 21 fee.
  • Drivers under twenty five are not allowed to hire intermediate, luxury, exotic, sports cars, VANs and SUVs.

Hertz

  • If renting a car at 20 years old or younger with Hertz, a surcharge of $19 per day applies at most destinations.
  • As an exception, the amount is $52 when traveling in the states of Michigan and New York.
  • Young drivers are not allowed to hire luxury, exotic, sports cars and also Long Wheel Base Vans.

National

  • National requires a $25 daily surcharge on top of the standard charge.
  • In New York State, this amount is $64.50, while in Michigan you will pay $42 per day.
  • Young drivers are not allowed to hire intermediate, luxury, exotic, sports cars, VANs and SUVs.

SIXT

  • If you are under 25, you are subject to SIXT young driver’s fee of $23.99-35.99 per day or maximum of $398.99-588.89 per month.
  • In New York State, you will pay $35.99-60.99 per day or a maximum of $598.49 -1.008.19 per month as an underage fee. In Michigan they don’t operate.
  • Young drivers are not allowed to hire luxury, exotic, sports cars, vans and SUVs.

Thrifty

  • The young driver fee at Thrifty is $15-35 per day.
  • When driving in the states of New York or Michigan, you will pay between $48 and $52 depending on the specific location.
  • Drivers of 24 years old and less are not allowed to hire luxury, exotic, sports cars and also Long Wheel Base Vans.

Would you like to find full details about underage fees in the USA? Check out the following summary table.

Company Minimum Rental Age Young Driver Fee Under 21 / /per day Michigan State Surcharge (18 to 20 years old) / /per day New York Surcharge (18 to 20 years old) / /per day
Ace 21 $25 No Station in MI $79.99
Alamo 21 $20 $34 $57
Avis 21 $27 $41 $84
Budget 21 $27 $41 $52
Dollar 20 $15-35 $48 $52
Enterprise 21 $25 $40 $65
Fox 19 $20-25 No Station in MI $80
Hertz 20 $19 $52 $52
National 21 $20 $42 $64
Sixt 21 $23.99-35.99 No Station in MI $35.99-60.99
Thrifty 20 $15-35 $48 $52

For renting a car in New York or Michigan State, the minimum age to rent a car is 18 from any car rental company that is presented in these states.

Note that underage charges depend not only on a specific company but also on a pick-up location. For example, in NY and MI states, they are fundamentally different from other U.S. locations.

Remember that the fee is not included in the final reservation price and you will have to pay it directly at the counter. Otherwise, you will be refused to rent a car.

Under 21 car rental reviews in the USA

Rental24h.com is the perfect place for car rental in America under 21; thousands of travelers appreciate the friendly service, cheap rates, and easy booking system on our website. As proof, check out video reviews from our previous customers who are willing to share their travel experiences.

🇺🇸 THRIFTY Car Rental at Denver International Airport [DEN], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 THRIFTY Car Rental at Denver International Airport [DEN], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Dollar Car Rental at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport [SEA], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Dollar Car Rental at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport [SEA], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 FOX Rent A Car Rental in San Diego Airport [SAN], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 FOX Rent A Car Rental in San Diego Airport [SAN], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 ALAMO Car Rental in San Francisco Airport [SFO], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 ALAMO Car Rental in San Francisco Airport [SFO], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Thrifty Car Rental in Washington DC Reagan Airport [DCA], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Thrifty Car Rental in Washington DC Reagan Airport [DCA], USA - Review of Rental24h.com

🇳🇿 Snap Rentals Car Rental in Queenstown Airport [ZQN], New Zealand - Review of Rental24h.com

🇳🇿 Snap Rentals Car Rental in Queenstown Airport [ZQN], New Zealand - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Review of Rental24h.com: FOX Rent A Car Car Rental in Miami International Airport [MIA], USA

🇺🇸 Review of Rental24h.com: FOX Rent A Car Car Rental in Miami International Airport [MIA], USA

🇺🇸 Dollar Car Rental at Charleston Airport [CHS], SC - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Dollar Car Rental at Charleston Airport [CHS], SC - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Enterprise Car Rental at Reno-Tahoe International Airport [RNO], NV - Review of Rental24h.com

🇺🇸 Enterprise Car Rental at Reno-Tahoe International Airport [RNO], NV - Review of Rental24h.com

🇩🇴 EUROPCAR Car Rental in Santo Domingo Airport [SDQ], Dominican Republic - Review of Rental24h.com

🇩🇴 EUROPCAR Car Rental in Santo Domingo Airport [SDQ], Dominican Republic - Review of Rental24h.com

🇨🇦 Zoom Rent a Car Car Rental in Toronto Pearson Intl Airport [YYZ], Canada - Review of Rental24h.com

🇨🇦 Zoom Rent a Car Car Rental in Toronto Pearson Intl Airport [YYZ], Canada - Review of Rental24h.com

🇬🇷 AutoUnion Car Rental in Preveza - Aktion Intl. Airport [PVK], Greece - Review of Rental24h.com

🇬🇷 AutoUnion Car Rental in Preveza - Aktion Intl. Airport [PVK], Greece - Review of Rental24h.com

🇪🇸 GOLDCAR Car Rental in Barcelona – El Prat Airport [BCN], Spain - Review of Rental24h.com

🇪🇸 GOLDCAR Car Rental in Barcelona – El Prat Airport [BCN], Spain - Review of Rental24h.com

🇧🇶 CarVenience Car Rental at Kralendijk - Flamingo Airport [BON], Bonaire - Review of Rental24h.com

🇧🇶 CarVenience Car Rental at Kralendijk - Flamingo Airport [BON], Bonaire - Review of Rental24h.com

🇮🇹 TargetRent Car Rental at Venice Marco Polo Intl Airport [VCE], Italy - Review of Rental24h.com

🇮🇹 TargetRent Car Rental at Venice Marco Polo Intl Airport [VCE], Italy - Review of Rental24h.com

🇭🇺 GAME Car Rental at Budapest Airport [BUD], Hungary - Review of Rental24h.com

🇭🇺 GAME Car Rental at Budapest Airport [BUD], Hungary - Review of Rental24h.com

🇨🇿 Budget Car Rental at Prague Airport [PRG], Czech Republic - Review of Rental24h.com

🇨🇿 Budget Car Rental at Prague Airport [PRG], Czech Republic - Review of Rental24h.com

🇪🇸 WIBER Car Rental at Malaga Airport [AGP], Spain - Review of Rental24h.com

🇪🇸 WIBER Car Rental at Malaga Airport [AGP], Spain - Review of Rental24h.com

FAQ about car rentals for under 21 in the USA

How to waive under 21 car rental fee in the United States?

For a youngster, car rental can cost quite expensive, and many travelers would like to make a 21 and under car rental more affordable.

Rental24h.com wants you to travel as profitably as possible, and offers several ways to avoid under 21 fees:

  • If you’re an official governor, or a military person, then most companies are not authorized to charge you.
  • In case you deal with Hertz along with your AAA membership, then this fact will allow you to avoid age charges. Therefore, Hertz car rental under 21 is a good way to save.
  • Your choice fell on Avis, Budget, or Enterprise? Then you can take an advantage from the USAA insurance program. It allows you to completely remove the underage fee from expense items.

Which car rental companies don’t charge for under 21 in the USA?

With specific memberships, you can waive under 21 fee by booking a rental car from Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz, making car rental for under 21 drivers much cheaper. For this, you will need to prove your participation in the AAA or USAA programs.

Age Program Rental Car Company
Under 18 Not possible None
18 USAA Avis, Budget, Hertz
19 USAA Avis, Budget, Hertz
20 USAA Avis, Budget, Hertz
20 AAA Hertz
21-24 AAA Hertz
21-24 USAA Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz

Pay attention that all the above-mentioned vendors require proof of participation in the AAA / USAA programs, so be sure to provide relevant documents at request.

Why car rent is more expensive for those under 21 in the U.S.?

Seemingly, many consumers think that suppliers simply profit from inexperienced renters. This is utter nonsense. The whole process of providing a rental car for under 21 customers can be quite risky for the vendor. Very often, the inexperience of the driver leads to dangerous circumstances, resulting in accidents on the road. The experience shortage is what distinguishes young renters from those who are 25 years old or more.

According to the multiple tests of world research centers, youngsters are much more likely to get into unpleasant situations on the roads, including collisions with pedestrians and other traffic users.

This provokes additional costs on the part of car holders for its repair and compensation for damage. And since the car is owned by a car rental company, it incurs an additional material loss.

To insure themselves against such possible losses in the future, suppliers ask for an additional fee. That’s why underage services are so expensive.

Where can I rent a car at 18 in the USA?

You can get access to car rentals for 18-year-olds in the USA by meeting at least one of the following conditions:

  • If you are traveling in Michigan or New York
  • If you are a US Military or US Government member and pick up a vehicle with proper paperwork
  • If you have an active USAA membership and you are military personnel, or a family member of military personnel.

What are the vehicle restrictions for renting a car at the age of 20?

Young drivers face car type restrictions that vary by location and company. For example, New York State laws prohibit drivers under 21 from picking up anything larger than a Full-Size car. If you rent from Enterprise, you can choose between Compact, Economy, Mid-size, and Full-size cars only. Other providers have different restrictions. See more details in the following table.

Car Rental Supplier Car Class Restrictions
ACE ACE Young drivers may only rent compact through mid size cars. They are not allowed to rent convertible cars or SUVs. Moreover, under 21 renters must provide proof of full coverage insurance.
Alamo Alamo Certain specialty and larger sized vehicles may not be rented to drivers under the age of 25.
Avis Avis Under 21 renters may not rent Full-Size, SUVs, Luxury Vehicles, Minivans, Passenger Vans, Premium SUVs, Signature Series.
Budget Budget Under 21 drivers will not be permitted to rent luxury cars, minivans, 12-passenger vans, specialty vehicles, full-size SUVs, premium SUVs.
Dollar Dollar Under 21 vehicle restrictions vary depending on the pick-up location.
Enterprise Enterprise Compact, Economy, Mid-size, and Full-Size cars are allowed to rent for under 21 drivers.
FOX FOX Economy through Luxury cars can be rented by drivers under 21 years of age.
Hertz Hertz Renters under the age of 21 may rent any car except those from the Dream Cars, Prestige, and Adrenaline collections, and certain specialty vehicles.
National National Renters under 21 years of age may be restricted to specific car classes.
SIXT SIXT Under 21 vehicle restrictions vary depending on the pick-up location.
Thrifty Thrifty Under 21 drivers are not allowed to rent premium, luxury, SUVs, pickup cars, wagons, prestige cars, minivans, vans, convertibles.

What types of car rental insurance are available for young drivers under 21 in the USA?

On vacation, no one wants to worry about anything. You just need to relax on the beach while enjoying a glass of fruit cocktail or leisurely exploring the national park while driving your 4-wheeled friend. However, nobody knows what can happen on the road. Moreover, under 21 car rental is an increased source of danger.

In order to protect yourself from a financial standpoint, you need to be insured. What types of protection plans should be considered?

CDW/LDW – Collision/Loss Damage Waiver

This useful protection saves from material losses if your car was involved in the incident, while LDW means you’ll avoid responsibility in case of loss or theft of the vehicle. Very often, rental price already includes damage protector plans, and you shouldn’t purchase them separately.

PAI - Personal Accident Insurance

The use of PAI provides coverage of medical and ambulance spending, as well as accidental death. This option is offered not at the stage of reservation nut at the counter.

SLI - Supplemental Liability Insurance

SLI reimburses material losses of the third parties, affected by the incident. This cover type comes as an extra protection tool, and requires a daily charge.

SCDW/FCDW – Super/Full CDW

This is the most comprehensive insurance that takes into account 100% aspects, and allows you to count on zero liability. Of course, it’s best suited for a rental car for under 21 drivers, thereby saving them from unnecessary trouble while traveling behind the vehicle’s steering wheel.

Do I need Collision and Loss Damage Waiver Insurance for under 21 car rental in United States?

Potential matters on the road and related problems can ruin your vacation. CDW/LDW is designed to save you from worrying about your vehicle, specifically when the car’s technical condition is not constantly up to you. The basic CDW/LDW is usually included in the price of the rental vehicle in Europe, Africa, and Australasia; however, in the USA and Canada, CDW/LDW insurance often have to be purchased additionally.

You can be a disciplined driver who uses car rental under 21 years of age, but it’s simply impossible to predict the activity of other road traffic participants. Subsequently, your car may be damaged, but material responsibility is exactly your headache!

Let’s check another point. You left the car on a metered parking lot in some remote area of Chicago or Baltimore, but some vandal scratched your car. Unfortunately, the driver is also responsible for this situation.

CDW/LDW insurance covers collision damage, fire damage, natural phenomena, theft, and vandalism. Therefore, it’s highly recommended that you take CDW/LDW protection for your vehicle. There are several ways to organize it:

  • Very often CDW/LDW comes with a rental by default - try to clarify this question with online support at the stage of booking. If necessary, ask to add this protection package to your order.
  • Contact the representative of the bank that issued your electronic card. Perhaps one of the points of the contract will say that CDW/LDW is included.
  • Get protection kit from a car rental supplier, which is apparently not the cheapest, but the fastest and easiest solution.
  • An independent insurer can also be used for road trips in the USA. Typically, this option is cheaper and has more advantages.

How long must I have held my driving license to rent a car under 21 in USA?

The more you hold your driving license, the more competent driver you are, and the more the car rental dealer can trust you. This is the understanding that almost all suppliers stick to. Therefore, most agencies around the globe require that you have permission for at least 1 year before the current rental date.

As an exception, Alamo and National take risks allowing car rental for driver under 21 without limitation the period of license ownership, which greatly simplifies the general situation for youngsters.

Should I get an International Driving Permit to rent a car under 21 in the USA?

This simple document can greatly facilitate your travel process around America. If you were stopped by the police, or in case you need additional means of identification, then simply present your International Driving Permit.

An International Driving Permit is sometimes referred to as an international driver's license. In general, an IDP is an officially certified translation of your domestic driver's document that contains the major languages such as English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German. An IDP should be always provided along with your domestic license.

The IDP requirements are regulated by the policy of a particular agency. Thus, this issue should be resolved in advance so that rental car under 21 was successful and without unexpected situations.

Where can I get an International Drivers Permit for under 21 driver in the USA?

Probably your friends or acquaintances will say that your IDP can be pre-ordered online almost everywhere. However, this is not so – it’s possible to stumble upon scammers.

Only two U.S. authorities can issue this type of document. They are the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). The paperwork will cost you pretty cheap - little more than $20.

Will I have to pay any extra charges when I collect my under 21 rental car in the USA?

Usually, no. Always thoroughly study your contract in order not to be a victim of unexpected situations and additional charges. The underage fee is usually a single payment you must make at the counter. It already contains all additional taxes.

If a young driver of 20 years old adds some optional extras such as a child seat, ski rack, GPS device, snow chains, etc. to your rental car, they will not be included in the total price, i.e. you will need to pay for them at the counter as well.

Can I rent a car to cross the border in the USA if I am under 21 years old?

If your upcoming aim is to cross the state border in a rental vehicle, your immediate task is to contact the provider’s office and inform them about your travel intentions. Moreover, this should be done in advance, before receiving the car - only then will you be finally approved. The next measure - you have to collect certain additional documents:

From USA to Canada

If you rent a car in the USA under 21, you can drive into Canada as long as you meet certain requirements. Usually, cars registered in the USA are free to cross the Canadian border. Be aware that more expensive car categories such as Luxury, Premium, and Exotic, and Large Passenger/Cargo Vans may not be driven abroad.

You must present the following documents in order to cross the border:

  • domestic or international passport to verify your identity.
  • birth certificate(s) for any child or children accompanying you.
  • valid driving license held for at least 1 year.
  • rental agreement.
  • insurance that covers driving to Canada - it’s called PERS. You need to order it from your provider at least 4 days before the future pick-up time.
  • valid visa if travelers from your country need it.

From USA to Mexico

When using car rental to under 21, almost all the top-tier providers will reject the abroad opportunity with Mexico.

However, it’s still possible to resolve this issue. This is because border crossing with Mexico is quite problematic and requires advance preparation.

First, you only need to pick up a car in the states of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas or California only. Secondly, you should resolve this issue with the supplier in advance. Then, when crossing the border, you must purchase Mexican insurance - its cost is $38-48 a day plus taxes. Please note that Mexicans are prohibited to cross the Mexican border when traveling on the U.S. registered rental car.

If you plan to cross the border, you must notify the company you are renting your vehicle from in advance. Also, study the traffic regulations of the country you are entering to avoid violations and potential fines.

Can someone else drive my under 21 rental car in the USA?

On long-distance trips, fatigue can greatly complicate the driving process. For this reason, it’s possible to add another person who will be able to legally control the rental car by taking the Additional Driver option.

It's a really comfortable solution because an additional driver under 21 will turn a trip into a pleasant stroll, allowing you to take satisfaction together with passengers. When tired, just ask your companion to replace you at the steering wheel.

Of course, the additional driver needs to show a passport and a non-expired license. The same conditions and restrictions apply to him as to the main driver. If the extra driver is also under 21, he is obliged to pay an underage surcharge as well.

In general, you have to pay for adding each extra driver, but Rental24h.com usually offers some deals with free additional drivers. You can also find offers with a free satellite navigation device or a free tank of fuel, which is much more cost-effective than purchasing these optional extras separately.

What rental car company has additional driver under 21?

You can be an additional driver even if you are 19 years of age. You just have to be aware of terms and conditions of the rental company that allows this. It’s an excellent solution because an additional driver under 21 will turn a trip into a pleasant stroll, allowing you to take satisfaction together with passengers. When tired, just ask your companion to replace you at the steering wheel.

Same car rental companies that rent to under 21 drivers usually allow the additional drivers of such age. Dollar, FOX, Hertz, and Thrifty are among the most popular agencies to choose when you need to rent a car with an additional driver under 21.

Any additional driver needs to show a passport and a non-expired license. The same conditions and restrictions apply to them as to the main driver. Every extra driver who is under 21 is obliged to pay an underage surcharge as well.

In general, you have to pay for adding each extra driver, but Rental24h.com usually offers some deals with free additional drivers. You can also find offers with a free satellite navigation device or a free tank of fuel, which is much more cost-effective than purchasing these optional extras separately.