Which U.S. Car Rental Companies Let Foreigners Rent Easily
Renting a car in the United States gives international travelers freedom and flexibility to explore beyond public transportation routes. Whether you’re visiting for a road trip, studying abroad, or on business, understanding which U.S. car rental companies are most foreigner-friendly in 2025 can save time, money, and stress.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know from license and insurance rules to which rental companies actually make the process smooth for international drivers.
Understanding Car Rentals for Foreign Travelers in the U.S.
What Foreign Visitors Need to Know Before Renting
Foreign visitors can rent cars in the U.S. quite easily — provided they meet basic requirements. All major car rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Alamo, National, SIXT) allow rentals to non-U.S. citizens.
You’ll need:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- A passport as identification.
- A major credit card in your name.
Some agencies may also ask for proof of return travel (such as a flight itinerary) or hotel booking.
U.S. states don’t issue national car rental laws policies vary slightly between companies and states, but the essentials remain consistent.
Key Documents Required
According to Enterprise Rent-A-Car, if your license is not printed in English, you’ll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified translation.
Here’s the full checklist most foreign renters will need:
- Valid driver’s license (in English, or accompanied by an IDP)
- Passport
- Credit card in the renter’s name
- International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license uses a non-Roman alphabet (e.g., Chinese, Arabic, Cyrillic)
- Proof of travel plans (sometimes requested at airports)
Top U.S. Car Rental Companies That Welcome Foreign Drivers
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise is known for its friendly customer service and flexible policies and that extends to international travelers.
What they accept:
- Foreign driver’s license (valid and unexpired)
- Passport as secondary ID
- IDP required if the license is in a non-English language
Minimum age: 21 in most states (18 in Michigan and New York).
Payment: Major credit or debit card in renter’s name.
Insurance: Optional, but recommended — Enterprise offers a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Liability Insurance Supplement (LIS).
Enterprise’s network is extensive, with neighborhood branches ideal for long-term stays and airport counters for short visits.
Best for: Tourists and long-stay visitors who value easy in-person support.
Hertz
Hertz is among the most established rental companies in the U.S. and widely trusted by international travelers.
According to Hertz’s official policy, renters from outside the U.S. must present:
- A non-U.S. driver’s license and passport
- A credit card in their name
- An IDP is recommended if the license is not in English
Hertz accepts most major international credit cards and has multilingual customer service at major airports.
Minimum age: 20 at most U.S. locations.
Bonus tip: Hertz often partners with international airlines and travel sites to offer “fly-drive” discounts.
Best for: Frequent travelers or business visitors who value brand reliability and airport convenience.
Avis and Budget
Avis and its sister brand Budget both have strong international renter policies.
According to Avis U.S. FAQs:
“Customers with a foreign driver’s license (other than a U.S. or Canadian one) may be required to also present a valid passport as secondary identification.”
Budget’s policy adds that if your license isn’t in the Roman alphabet, you’ll need an IDP or official translation.
Both brands allow foreign renters to use major credit cards, and some locations accept debit cards with proof of return travel.
Minimum age: 21 (varies by state).
Insurance: CDW and Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) can be added.
Best for: International tourists seeking affordable rates and wide airport availability.
Learn more in our detailed U.S. Car Rental Insurance Guide to understand CDW, SLI, and how foreign travelers can stay fully covered.
Alamo and National
Both Alamo and National are part of Enterprise Holdings and share similar rules for international visitors.
- Accept foreign licenses and passports
- Require IDP if your license is not in English
- Provide multilingual online booking support
Alamo caters more to leisure travelers, offering simple check-in kiosks at airports.
National targets business travelers with faster “Emerald Club” member perks that include skip-the-counter service.
Best for: Vacationers and corporate travelers who want streamlined rentals.
SIXT Rent a Car
SIXT, a German brand expanding rapidly across the U.S., is one of the most foreigner-friendly companies.
They explicitly welcome international renters and accept a wide range of foreign driver’s licenses, provided they’re valid and legible.
Requirements:
- Passport and foreign license
- IDP if license not in English
- Major credit card
SIXT’s online booking system supports international payments and often provides all-inclusive rates with CDW and theft protection.
Best for: International travelers wanting premium vehicles or European-style service in the U.S.
What You’ll Need to Rent a Car in the U.S. as a Foreigner
Minimum Age and License Rules
- Enterprise: Minimum 21 nationwide (18 in NY & MI).
- Hertz: Minimum 20 (18 in NY & MI).
- Avis/Budget: 21 (some exceptions by location).
- SIXT: 21–25 depending on vehicle class.
Drivers under 25 may face a young renter surcharge (typically $20–$35/day).
Each company requires that the driver’s license be valid for the entire rental period expired or temporary permits are not accepted.
Insurance and Coverage for International Renters
Insurance is critical when driving in the U.S., especially for foreign drivers whose home insurance might not apply.
Most companies offer:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) – protects against damage/theft.
- Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) – covers third-party damage.
- Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) – optional medical coverage.
Foreign visitors should check whether their travel insurance or credit card already provides rental car protection; if not, it’s safer to buy coverage at the counter.
Tips for Renting a Car Hassle-Free in the U.S.
Booking and Payment Tips
- Book online before arrival. Many agencies offer better rates when booked from your home country.
- Use an international credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex). Debit cards may require additional proof like return tickets or address verification.
- Check mileage policies. Most companies offer unlimited mileage, but some local rentals may have limits.
- Choose airport pickup for easier document verification — local branches may have stricter ID policies.
Flying in soon? Don’t miss our Airport Car Rental Tips for First-Time U.S. Visitors for faster check-ins and smoother pickups.
Driving Legally and Safely in the U.S.
Driving rules in the U.S. can differ by state. Key points for foreign visitors:
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Always carry your license, passport, and rental agreement.
- Observe speed limits and seatbelt laws — they’re strictly enforced.
- Use EZ-Pass or toll apps in states with automated tolls.
The U.S. Department of State advises visitors to familiarize themselves with local traffic laws and insurance requirements before driving.
Best Car Rental Options for Different Types of Foreign Travelers
For Tourists and Short-Term Visitors
If you’re in the U.S. for a vacation or short stay:
- Alamo and Budget are excellent choices for affordable daily rentals.
- Enterprise has great weekend deals and airport branches.
- Choose a package that includes insurance, GPS, and unlimited mileage for maximum convenience.
Tip: Reserve early if traveling during peak tourist seasons (summer, holidays), as vehicle supply can tighten near major airports.
U.S. agencies also offer Military and Government Car Rental Discounts helpful if you’re on official or exchange programs.
For Students, Long-Term Visitors, or Expats
For stays lasting several months:
- Enterprise and National offer long-term rental programs and monthly billing.
- SIXT+ Subscription is available in major U.S. cities, allowing foreigners to rent month-to-month without ownership hassles.
- Consider loyalty programs like Enterprise Plus, Hertz Gold Rewards, or National Emerald Club — they provide free upgrades and quicker service.
Final Thoughts – Making Your U.S. Road Trip Easy in 2025
Renting a car as a foreigner in the U.S. is more straightforward than ever in 2025. Major companies Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Alamo, National, and SIXT — all welcome international drivers, provided you bring the right documentation.
The golden rule:
Carry your passport, foreign driver’s license, and International Driving Permit.
Use a major credit card.
Understand your insurance coverage before driving.
With a bit of planning, your American road adventure from California’s Pacific Coast Highway to Florida’s beaches or the Grand Canyon can be smooth, legal, and unforgettable.
FAQs
Can foreigners rent cars in the U.S. without an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Yes, if your driver’s license is in English. Otherwise, most companies require an IDP or certified translation of your home country license.
What is the minimum age for foreigners to rent a car in the U.S.?
Typically 21, but some states like New York and Michigan allow rentals from 18. Drivers under 25 usually pay a young renter surcharge.
Can I rent a car with a debit card instead of a credit card?
Some agencies accept debit cards, but you’ll need extra documentation like proof of return flight and a valid passport.
Do U.S. rental companies check foreign driving records?
No. Most companies only verify the validity of your physical license and identification, not your international driving history or violations.
How much deposit do foreigners need to rent a car in the U.S.?
Deposits vary by company and car type, typically $200–$500 on a credit card at pickup, refundable upon safe return of the vehicle.
Can I drive across states with a rental car as a foreigner?
Yes, most U.S. rentals allow interstate travel. Always confirm your contract and watch for extra mileage or one-way drop-off fees.
Is U.S. car rental insurance mandatory for foreign drivers?
Basic liability coverage is required, but optional CDW or SLI insurance is strongly recommended for non-U.S. travelers to avoid high out-of-pocket costs.
Can I add another foreign driver to my rental contract?
Yes, additional drivers are allowed if they meet age and license rules. Each must present valid ID and may incur a small daily fee.
Do rental cars include GPS or navigation systems?
Most companies offer GPS units or built-in navigation for a small daily fee. You can also use smartphone apps like Google Maps or Waze.
Which rental company is best for international travelers in 2025?
Enterprise and SIXT are top-rated for foreigners, offering clear IDP rules, multilingual support, and flexible insurance options across U.S. airport and city locations.
