Rental Requirements

Driver's Licence

A valid, unexpired licence in the main driver's name is universal. Many providers also require that it has been held for a minimum period — commonly a year. Temporary paper licences and photocopies are usually refused. If your licence is not in the Roman alphabet, expect to be asked for a translation or an International Driving Permit alongside it.

Minimum Age

Minimum age is set by the provider and constrained by state law. In much of the US the practical floor is 21, with a young-driver surcharge applied under 25. Some vehicle classes — premium, luxury, large SUVs and pickups — carry a higher minimum regardless of the general policy. A booking that passes at checkout can still be refused at the counter if the age rule is not met.

Additional Drivers

Anyone who will drive must normally be registered with the provider, present at the counter, and carrying their own licence. A daily fee is common, though some providers waive it for a spouse or domestic partner in certain states. An unregistered driver behind the wheel typically voids the rental agreement and any waiver you paid for.

Credit & Debit Cards

Most providers want a credit card in the main driver's name, both for the deposit hold and as identity verification. Debit card acceptance is location-specific and usually conditional: a credit check, proof of return travel, additional ID, or a larger hold. Prepaid cards and cash are rarely accepted at pick-up. Confirm before you fly.

Security Deposits

The provider places a hold on your card at pick-up to cover fuel, tolls, penalties or damage. The amount varies by vehicle class and location and is set by the provider. It is released after you return the vehicle, but your bank may take several business days to reflect that — plan your available balance accordingly.

Insurance

You must be covered, but the source is up to you. Common routes are the provider's own collision damage waiver and liability products, your existing personal auto policy where it extends to rentals, or a credit card benefit. Check what you already hold before buying cover at the counter, and check what it actually excludes — many card benefits exclude pickups, large SUVs and exotic vehicles.

Identification

Photo ID in addition to the licence is common, particularly for international renters, where a passport is usually requested. Airport counters frequently ask for the flight number as well, both to verify travel and to track delays.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is a translation of your existing licence, not a licence in itself — it is only valid alongside the original. Some providers and some states require it for non-US licences; others do not. Because it must be issued in your home country before you travel, get it in advance if there is any doubt.

Vehicle-Specific Requirements

Certain classes carry extra conditions: higher minimum ages, larger deposits, towing prohibitions on pickups, off-road restrictions on SUVs, and return-charge rules on electric vehicles. These are set per vehicle class by the provider and appear in their terms, not in a general policy page like this one.