Can Someone Else Drive Your Rental Car?

Heading on a road trip with friends, enjoying a family holiday or getting away for a romantic getaway? You might consider sharing driving duties as you explore your new surroundings.

While it may sound simple to let anyone with a driver’s license get behind the wheel of your rental car, there are some important rules to know when it comes to additional drivers.

Read on below to find out who can drive your rental car and what you should be aware of when it comes to splitting driving responsibilities. 

Hertz's Additional Driver Policy 

With Hertz you can add an additional driver before you embark on your adventure. Extra individuals are not automatically covered on the Rental Agreement and so each additional driver also needs to meet the general rental requirements. Bear in mind each state also has their own requirements, such as minimum renters’ age.

When adding an additional driver, an applicable driving record will be performed to check eligibility. The renter and each additional driver then needs to be present to sign the Rental Agreement.

There is no fee for additional drivers if both the renter and additional driver are members of AAA/CAA. There is also no fee for additional drivers aiding renters with disability and accessibility concerns.

Please note that additional drivers are subject to the laws and regulations of whatever state they’re driving in at the time. And may vary from state to state. An example of this would be the minimum age for renting a vehicle in New York is 18.

What Are the Benefits of Adding an Additional Driver?

There are many benefits to having an additional driver. Among the biggest benefits is the convenience of sharing driving duties.

Imagine going on a lengthy road trip and having to drive the entire route single-handedly – having an additional driver can share the excitement of exploring and staveoff tiredness behind the wheel.

Let’s not forget how important it is to have a plan B. If something unexpected
happens to you, such as falling ill or becoming fatigued, there will be another
person available to take the wheel to carry on the journey.

Ultimately, by having a second driver, you can rest, relax, or attend to other matters while someone else takes the wheel. It means you can get to your destination quicker while taking rest breaks en route. You’ll also get to choose the radio station while your fellow passenger is at the wheel!

How to Add an Additional Driver

To add an additional driver to a Hertz car rental reservation the renter and
additional driver both need to be present at a Hertz rental location.

1. Choose your nearest Hertz car rental location. For ease and peace of mind, it’s a good idea to add a driver at the start of your rental journey.
2. Decide how long you want an additional driver for. Adding an additional driver is charged per day.
3. The additional driver will need to present a valid driver’s license and credit card.
4. The additional driver must meet standard car rental requirements for Hertz and the state in which they’re renting the vehicle.
5. If the additional driver is under 25, they can still drive some vehicles, but may incur a Young Renter fee as well.

Are There Any Fees to Be Aware Of When Adding a Driver? 

Adding an extra driver comes with a per day, per person charge as well as potential other fees that you should keep in mind. If the additional driver is under 25, there could be a Young Renter fee as well.

Hertz also provides no liability protection under the Rental Agreement. If you want added peace of mind, there are optional protection plans available, such as the Liability Insurance Supplement or Personal Accident Insurance.

Let’s Go!

Rent a car for you and an additional driver today and enjoy a Hertz road trip with peace of mind.