The standard price for a car rental ranges from $30-50 a day on the low end to $140-150 a day on the high end. It all depends on where you are and how much demand there is. [2] X Research source
You can try to explain that you’re responsible and have never been in an accident, but it’s not likely to get you anywhere. These policies are pretty set in stone for the folks working at the car rental counter.
If you’re a AAA or USAA member, you can usually get the fees waived. The minimum rental age at certain rental agencies, like Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty, is actually 20.
Some agencies will waive the fees if you’re a AAA or USAA member. Avis is one of the rental agencies that seems more open to renting to teenagers. Unfortunately, there is no scenario where you’ll be able to rent a car when you’re 16-17, since you aren’t old enough to sign an official contract.
This also applies to the military and government employees. If you’re active duty, you can typically find an agency that rents to you at the normal rate so long as you’re on government business. [7] X Research source
Unfortunately, they just have to offer you a service—they don’t have to offer it as a fair price. The daily fees that most agencies charge in these states tend to be high for younger customers. Outside of those two states, it is entirely up to the businesses whether they offer rental cars to drivers aged 18-24. There are no bans or laws on this, but certain areas are more likely to offer younger driver cars than others. [9] X Research source
Some of these services require you to be a student if you’re 18-20 and you want to use their service. If you do want to go this route, submit your application at least few weeks before you actually need to use a car. You’ll need to submit your personal information and upload copies of your driver’s license to be approved.
There is usually no need to add an additional driver if your spouse is renting the car; they’re typically allowed to drive it without being added to the contract or paying extra fees.
The “main driver” must also stay with the vehicle. Just to put a finer point on it, your mom or dad can’t rent a vehicle for you and hand you the keys.
You do need a debit credit card to rent a vehicle. This will be charged in the event that you return the car damaged. The insurance is optional—if you have home or car insurance, check with your carrier to see if rental cars are covered (they usually are). If you don’t, get their insurance. Fill up the tank before returning the car. It’s a lot cheaper to pay for the gas yourself; if the company fills it up for you, you’ll be charged. When driving a car for the first time, you should adjust all three mirrors, the rear view mirror and two side mirrors. [14] X Research source Adjust the right and left side mirrors until you see the tip of your doorknobs and the full view of the street. [15] X Research source Make sure to position your rear view mirror so you can see the complete view behind you. [16] X Research source
