If you are an 18 year olds who are looking for a great way to get around town, renting a car may be the perfect option for you. Renting a car provides you with freedom and flexibility, moreover, it can help you save money on transportation costs as well.
However, there are a few rental companies that don’t rent out cars to 18-year-olds. But don’t worry, in this post, we have compiled a list of the best car rental companies for 18 years olds that don’t mind your age.
So, if you were looking for a way to rent a car and get around the town during your summer vacation then keep on reading this article till the end.
Things to Know Before Renting a Car as an 18 Year Old
You may be able to rent a car at 18 at most major car rental companies if you meet the following requirements:
- You’re renting a car in New York or Michigan, where state law requires car rental agencies to rent to drivers ages 18 and older.
- You have a military ID and are traveling on government business. If you don’t meet these requirements, check with your parents or guardians about renting a car for you.
Some companies may allow you to rent a car if you’re accompanied by an adult driver 25 years of age or older. Be sure to bring your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a credit card when you go to pick up the car.
Budget
If you’re under 21 and looking to rent a car from Budget, you’ll be happy to know that in New York and Michigan, you can do so at the age of 18.
Except for New York and Michigan, for all the other states the minimum age is 21.
There is an additional young driver surcharge until you are 25 that must be paid, but this typically only adds up to $27 per day. And while young drivers are restricted to renting economy through full-size cars, this should still give you plenty of options to choose from.
So if you’re headed to New York or Michigan and need a rental car, Budget should be your go-to company.
Avis
Avis is one of the world’s leading car rental companies, with locations in more than 170 countries. In the United States, Avis rents cars to drivers 18 and older in Michigan and New York, and waives any additional charges for those 25 and older.
Renters younger than 25 can rent economy through full-size cars, premium cars, convertibles, intermediate SUVs, and standard SUVs.
However, they cannot rent full-size SUVs, luxury cars, minivans, passenger vans, premium SUVs, or specialty cars. No matter what kind of car you’re looking for, Avis is sure to have a rental that meets your needs.
National Car Rental
National Car Rental offers a wide variety of car rental options for travelers across the United States. However, in order to rent from National, you must be at least 21 years of age.
In Michigan and New York, however, National Car Rental does allow 18-year-olds to rent cars. There is a $25 fee for renters under the age of 25. U.S. military personnel and government employees ages 18 or older do not have to pay the additional fee when renting for authorized government travel.
Young Drivers can only rent economy through full-size cars. For anyone looking to rent a car from National Car Rental, it is important to take note of these age restrictions and surcharges.