Are There Age Restrictions for Renting a Car?

Introduction: Age matters when renting cars. If you’re a young driver eager to hit the road or an older traveler wondering if there’s an upper limit, it’s important to know rental car age policies. Most people have heard that drivers under 25 face extra fees, but what are the specifics? And is there a maximum age? In this post, we’ll outline the minimum and maximum age requirements common in the rental car industry, including young driver surcharges, exceptions, and tips for those under 25 (or over 70) renting vehicles.

Minimum Age Requirements and Young Driver Fees

In the United States (and many other countries), the typical minimum age to rent a car is 21. At 21, most major rental companies will rent to you, but you will pay a “young renter” surcharge if you are under 25. This surcharge is a daily fee added for drivers roughly age 21-24, because statistically younger drivers present higher risk.

• Under 25 Surcharge: The fee can range from about $15 up to $35 per day depending on the company and location. An average is around $20-$30/day in many places. For example, Hertz’s “Young Renter Fee” is around $25/day, and Budget’s is about $13/day in most states (capped at $65 per rental). These fees can really add up on a longer rental, sometimes making it almost twice as expensive for young drivers.
• 18–20-Year-Old Renters: Renting at 18, 19, or 20 is generally not allowed by most companies, except in special situations. Two U.S. states, New York and Michigan, have laws that require rental companies to rent to drivers aged 18 and up, but they can charge a higher surcharge for those under 21. If you are 18-20 renting in NY or MI, expect very steep fees (sometimes $40+ per day extra). Some companies have internal policies or partnerships (for example, USAA members or military personnel often can rent at 18 at certain agencies without as high fees). Outside those states, it’s rare to find rentals for under-21; some smaller local agencies might allow it, but with a big deposit and fees.
• Restrictions on Vehicle Types:If you are under 25, even though you can rent, you might be restricted from renting certain classes of vehicles. Commonly, young drivers cannot rent luxury cars, exotic cars, or large vans/SUVs. You’ll typically be limited to economy through full-size cars, and sometimes standard SUVs or minivans. Each company has its own list; for example, Enterprise might not let 21–24-year-olds rent from their “Premium” or specialty fleet. This is something to check if you were hoping to rent that Corvette for a joyride at age 23 – likely not gonna happen.
• Additional Driver Age: If you’re under 25 and have a co-renter (like a spouse or friend), they also must pay a young driver fee if they’re in that age bracket and listed as an additional driver. (However, note: some companies waive additional driver fees for spouses; they don’t waive the under-25 part, but they might waive the separate additional driver fee. Check our related post on additional drivers for details).
• Why 25? It’s an industry standard rooted in insurance and risk. Statistics show drivers under 25, especially males, have more accidents. At 25, rates drop significantly, so rental companies use that as a cutoff for risk-based surcharges. It’s not a magic number for everyone, but it’s a broad actuarial line.

Tip for Young Renters: If you’re between 21-24, hunt for any discounts. Some memberships (AAA, USAA, student organizations) have partnerships waiving or reducing the under-25 fee. For example, USAA members (typically military and families) often have the under-age fee waived at certain companies. Similarly, some corporate or university discount codes include young driver fee exemption. It can save a lot if you qualify. Also, consider car-sharing services; some allow 21+ or even 18+ with membership (though they too add fees for young drivers).

Maximum Age Considerations

In the U.S. and Canada, there is generally no maximum age limit to rent a car. Major rental companies will rent to licensed drivers of any age, even seniors in their 80s or 90s, as long as they have a valid license and credit card. There are no extra charges for older drivers in the States.

However, internationally, some countries and rental agencies do have upper age limits or requirements for older drivers:

• In parts of Europe, you might see an upper age limit typically around 70 to 75 years old. For example, some rentals in Ireland or Eastern Europe might not rent to drivers over 75, or they require a doctor’s note or proof of recent driving or additional insurance for those above that age. In the UK, most companies don’t have a strict max age, but a few might around 80.
• According to some resources, certain countries have a “hard” cap (some as low as age 65 or 70), but many times this can be worked around by purchasing extra insurance or providing a medical certificate of fitness to drive. Always check the policy if you’re a senior planning to rent abroad. For example, a Booking.com guide notes some countries have upper age 75 or so and require checking ahead.
• Some rental companies target senior tourists with special terms; others might quietly have an age cutoff in their terms and conditions.

In practical terms, if you’re an older driver (say over 70) traveling abroad, it’s a good idea to read the rental terms or email the company to ask if they have an upper age limit. Often, using a large international company (Hertz, Avis, etc.) can help, as they tend to accommodate seniors more than some small local firms.

There’s also often additional insurance available for older drivers, or they may be required to purchase the CDW in some cases.

Note: If you have any medical conditions affecting driving (at any age), that’s separate from age policies but worth considering in terms of safety and rental agreements (you must be legally fit to drive).

Renting Tips by Age Group

• Under 21: Your options are limited. Look for agencies in NY/Michigan or specialized situations. Consider alternatives like being added as an additional driver to a rental under someone older (some companies will allow an 18+ additional driver if a parent/spouse is the primary – but policies vary).
• 21-24: Budget for the surcharge. Try to keep the rental period shorter to minimize that cost, or leverage any fee-waiver programs. Stick to allowed vehicle types.
• 25-70: This is the golden range with no extra fees or hassle due to age. Just rent as usual.
• 70+: In the U.S., you’re fine. Abroad, double-check policies. It could be wise to carry an IDL (International Driving Permit) and perhaps a doctor’s note if you have any concerns, just to satisfy any requirements. Also ensure your travel insurance covers auto liability if local insurance might be finicky.

Insurance for Young vs. Old: One more thing – if you’re under 25 and using a personal insurance or credit card, make sure there’s no exclusion for underage drivers (there usually isn’t for personal insurance – they cover you if you’re licensed; credit cards also don’t usually exclude based on your age, as long as you are a valid renter). For older drivers, ensure any travel or credit card insurance doesn’t have age cutoffs (some travel policies have upper age limits for certain benefits).

Summary: For most rentals, you need to be 21+ to rent, with 25+ avoiding surcharges. There isn’t an official “maximum” age in many places, but always check local rules when abroad.

If you're a young or senior driver with questions about rental age policies, Airport Van Rental makes it easy to find the answers. As your trusted online travel broker, we connect you with reliable car rental providers. Remember to check the specific age requirements and potential surcharges of the company you choose when booking, so you can confidently hit the road knowing all the details.