Important age requirements to consider when renting with Hertz

These rules can differ from state to state, but the main rules apply nationwide. For example, you’ll always need a license and some form of ID. There are also certain car rental age conditions that apply to renting.

If you’re planning on renting a car with us, it pays to be informed and aware of the rules. Especially when it comes to car rental age requirements. That way you can ensure that you swerve or anticipate any extra fees or surprises.

Taking into account a few restrictions, here’s how to rent a car with Hertz:

What is the minimum car rental age?

While some car rental companies won’t rent a car to anyone under 25, here at Hertz we’re pleased to lease our vehicles to anyone aged 20 or over (in accordance with most state laws). Michigan and New York state allow hire companies to rent to anyone aged 18 and over. In Nebraska and Alabama, that age limit is 19. In those states, we lower our minimum car rental age accordingly.

To find out if your rental journey is affected by any of this, please check our Location Qualification page.

It’s worth bearing in mind that while car rental age doesn’t impact the fee per se, if you’re under 25, you will be levied an age differential charge that we call the ‘Young Renter’ fee. We’ll explain this in more detail below.

Is there a renter’s fee if you’re under 25?

Yes. Anyone renting a vehicle with us who’s aged between 20 and 25 will be required to pay an additional (‘Young Renter’) daily surcharge. If you’re in a state with a young driver mandate, that amount is likely to be higher.

Is there a car rental age limit?

While there are rules and laws about the minimum car rental age, the same cannot be said for the maximum age. There is no car rental age limit in the United States. So, if you’re a senior driver and you’re concerned that your birthdate might cause furrowed brows when you go to pick up your keys, don’t be.

Provided you have a valid driver’s license, there are no maximum age limits anywhere in the United States. This isn’t always the case abroad, however. So, if you’re planning on renting a car on vacation, always check the restrictions before booking.

What license do I need?

You'll need to be able to show a valid driver's license whenever you book with us. This has to be a government-issued form of ID, with a clear photograph of your face on it. It must also be valid for the rental period and in your country of residence. If your license isn't in English, we'll require an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original (the IDP isn’t acceptable on its own).

Temporary licenses are okay if your license has expired or is lost or stolen. Provided, that is, that it's a physical copy. Digital or mobile versions aren't accepted.

How can I pay for my car rental?

To hire a vehicle with Hertz, you’re going to need a valid credit or debit card. An authorization hold will be put on your credit or debit card at the time of rental. The amount will cover the estimated rental charges and any additional charges that could be incurred. That amount won't leave your account, but it won't be available for you to spend, either.

You may also use vouchers or a store value card to pay for your rental. Some Air Travel Cards may also be accepted, as may cash (provided you also have a Cash Deposit Identification Card).

You can find out more details on the specifics of payments in our Rental Terms, Qualifications and Requirements.

Renting a car in America

We exist to make renting easy and available for everyone. However, customers under 25 may find that they’re excluded from hiring certain vehicles with us. These are generally specialty cars that are particularly powerful or expensive. But as long as you’re over 20 (18 or 19 in some states), have a driver’s license and are aware of the charges, we’d love to have you lease from us.

Renting a car in America is convenient with Hertz. Hire from us and hit the road when it suits you best.