Planning to share the driving with a spouse, family member, friend or colleague?
Adding another driver to your rental car may be possible, but the additional driver generally needs to meet the rental company’s eligibility requirements and be formally authorized.
Allowing someone to drive the rental without being properly added to the rental agreement can create problems if an accident or other incident occurs.
What Is an Additional Driver?
An additional driver is someone other than the primary renter who is authorized to operate the rental vehicle.
For example, if you rent a car for a road trip and your spouse will also drive, your spouse may need to be listed as an additional driver.
The exact rules depend on the rental provider and location.
Do You Have to Add Another Driver?
If another person will drive the rental vehicle, you should check the rental company’s policy and add the person if required.
Do not assume that a friend or family member can automatically drive the vehicle simply because you rented it.
The rental agreement determines who is authorized to operate the vehicle.
What Does an Additional Driver Need?
An additional driver will generally need to satisfy the provider’s eligibility requirements.
These may include:
- Valid driver’s license
- Minimum age
- Acceptable identification
- Other documentation required by the provider
The primary renter and additional driver may both need to be present when the additional driver is added.
Does an Additional Driver Need a Driver’s License?
Yes, an additional driver generally needs a valid driver’s license appropriate for driving the rental vehicle.
If the additional driver is an international visitor, additional documentation may be required.
Is There a Fee for an Additional Driver?
Some rental providers charge an additional-driver fee.
However, fees and exceptions vary.
Certain providers or locations may allow eligible additional drivers without a separate fee under specific circumstances.
Ask the provider before booking if the rental will have multiple drivers.
Can Someone Under 25 Be an Additional Driver?
Potentially.
However, a young-driver fee or additional restrictions may apply if the additional driver is under a certain age.
The provider may evaluate the age of each driver rather than only the age of the primary renter.
Can a Spouse Drive the Rental Car?
Some rental providers may have special rules for spouses or domestic partners, while others may require the person to be formally listed.
Policies vary.
The safest approach is to confirm with the rental provider before allowing another person to drive.
Can a Friend Drive My Rental Car?
A friend may be able to drive the vehicle if they meet the provider’s requirements and are properly authorized.
Allowing an unauthorized driver to operate the vehicle can potentially violate the rental agreement.
Always check the rental provider’s policy.
Can a Family Member Drive a Rental Car?
A family member may be able to drive if they meet the provider’s eligibility requirements.
Do not assume that being related to the primary renter automatically makes someone an authorized driver.
What Happens If an Unauthorized Driver Drives the Car?
The consequences depend on the rental agreement, provider policies and circumstances.
Potential issues may involve:
- Rental agreement violations
- Additional charges
- Insurance or protection concerns
- Liability issues
- Restrictions on claims
If someone else needs to drive, add them properly before they operate the vehicle.
Can You Add an Additional Driver After Picking Up the Car?
Some rental providers may allow an additional driver to be added later.
However, policies vary.
If you decide during the rental that another person needs to drive, contact the provider and ask about the correct process.
How Many Additional Drivers Can You Add?
There may be limits or specific rules regarding the number of additional drivers.
The provider determines the applicable policy.
If you’re planning a long road trip with multiple drivers, ask about the maximum number of authorized drivers before booking.
What If the Additional Driver Has a Foreign License?
An international additional driver may be subject to the same documentation requirements as other international renters.
Depending on the state and provider, an IDP or other documentation may be required.
Check the requirements before pickup.
Does an Additional Driver Need to Be Present?
Some providers require additional drivers to appear at the rental location and provide documentation.
Others may have different procedures.
Confirm the provider’s requirements before the rental begins.
How AutoDeals24 Can Help
AutoDeals24 provides information about rental requirements and connects consumers with participating third-party rental providers.
If you’re planning a rental with multiple drivers, you can discuss your requirements with the participating provider before completing the rental.
The rental provider determines who can drive the vehicle and what fees or conditions apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do additional drivers have to be listed on a rental agreement?
The requirements depend on the rental provider, but anyone who plans to drive should be properly authorized under the provider’s rules.
Is there a fee for adding another driver?
Some providers charge additional-driver fees, while others may have exceptions.
Can my spouse drive my rental car?
It depends on the rental provider’s policy. Confirm whether your spouse must be added formally.
Can a friend drive my rental car?
A friend may be able to drive if authorized by the rental provider.
Can an additional driver be under 25?
Potentially, but young-driver requirements or fees may apply.
Final Thoughts
If more than one person plans to drive your rental car, don’t leave the issue until you’re already on the road.
Check the rental provider’s additional-driver requirements before pickup and make sure every driver is properly authorized.
This can help avoid unexpected fees and potential problems under the rental agreement.
AutoDeals24 is an independent automotive information and rental referral platform. Additional-driver eligibility, fees and rental policies are determined by the applicable third-party provider.