Want to keep your rental costs even lower? Read our expert tips on how to avoid hidden fees when renting a car before you book.
Traveling with a friend or partner can make any trip more enjoyable and effortless. While traveling in a rental car, sharing the driving responsibility can make journeys smoother.
Some car rental companies allow a second driver for free, saving money and making your travel plans easy. In this article, we will explore rental companies that offer this facility, the rules for authorized and unauthorized drivers, and possible penalties.
Rental Car Policies Vary
Various rental car companies have different policies regarding additional drivers. Some companies automatically cover spouses as additional drivers, while others charge an extra fee.
So, it is necessary to read the fine print of the rental agreement to know for sure. Many companies state their policy clearly on their website or in the rental contract but for some, you need to ask.
Free Second Driver Policies
Many car rental companies charge extra fees for adding a second driver. However, some waive this fee under certain conditions. Knowing which companies allow a second driver for free can help you save money.
This option is especially useful for families, friends, or colleagues traveling together. It also reduces the chance of issues like a rental car unauthorized driver situation, which can cause penalties. With careful planning, you can avoid extra fees and share driving duties smoothly.
Authorized vs. Unauthorized Drivers
Authorized Driver: An authorized driver is someone listed in the rental agreement. This person can legally drive the car without any issues. Car rental companies often require that authorized drivers meet specific age and license requirements. You must tell about all drivers when you sign the agreement to avoid any trouble in future.
Unauthorized Driver: An unauthorized driver is anyone not mentioned in the rental agreement. Even if this person drives the car for a short distance, it means you are breaking the rules. Rental companies take this seriously and may set penalties if unauthorized drivers use the vehicle.
What Happens if You Don’t Add a Driver to Your Rental Car?
If you don’t add a driver to your rental car, no other person will be eligible to drive your car. Also, if you let someone drive your rental car without adding them as an authorized driver, you might be breaking the rental agreement.
This can also cancel insurance coverage, leaving you liable for damages or accidents. Rental companies may also impose fines for unauthorized drivers. To avoid these issues, always add any additional drivers to your rental agreement.
Before renting, make sure you understand how insurance works with additional drivers. Check out our detailed guide on rental car insurance requirements in the U.S. to avoid coverage gaps.
Can You Add a Driver to a Rental Car?
Yes, you can add a driver to your rental car. The additional driver must meet the rental company’s age and license requirements. They need to be present at the rental counter with a valid driver’s license.
Most rental companies charge a daily fee for extra drivers. For example, Enterprise charges $15 per day per additional driver. However, spouses or domestic partners often can be added at no extra cost. It’s best to check the specific policies of your rental company.
If you prefer not to use a credit card, learn how to rent a car using a debit card without issues including company-specific policies.
Top Car Rental Companies That Allow a Second Driver Free
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise lets your spouse or domestic partner drive for free as a second driver at most U.S. locations. This means you can avoid the Enterprise additional driver fee under specific conditions. Some locations also waive the fee for second drivers if you use certain corporate or membership accounts. Enterprise is a reliable choice with clear pricing and many locations.
Alamo Rent-A-Car: Alamo car rental offers a free second driver option for spouses or domestic partners at most U.S. locations. This helps couples share driving without extra costs. Members of groups like Costco Travel may also get this benefit, even for non-family drivers. Always check for restrictions in specific states before booking.
National Car Rental: National Car Rental offers a free extra driver for Emerald Club members. Joining the loyalty program lets you add one driver without fees. This feature is great for frequent travelers, giving flexibility and convenience. Membership is free, and spouses or partners can also drive for free in the U.S.
Avis Car Rental: Avis lets AAA members add a second driver for free, just like Hertz. This benefit is available in the U.S. and Canada at participating locations. Avis is popular for its smooth service and affordable rentals, making it great for families and groups. AAA members save more, especially with a second driver.
Budget Car Rental: Budget Rent a Car lets AAA members add a second driver for free, saving money on rentals. Spouses and domestic partners can also drive for free at most U.S. and Canadian locations. Budget is known for affordable prices, and this policy makes their rentals even more budget-friendly.
Planning to rent right after you land? Explore our full guide on airport car rentals at major U.S. locations to find the best deals.
When Can You Add a Second Driver for Free?
Spouse or Domestic Partner: Most companies allow spouses or domestic partners to drive without fees. You may have to show proof of the relationship in some cases.
Loyalty Program Memberships: Programs like National’s Emerald Club and Alamo Insiders often include free second driver benefits. Signing up for these programs is generally free and easy.
Corporate or Business Rentals: Corporate accounts frequently include free second-driver benefits. Discuss this benefit with your rental provider if you are traveling for work.
Special Offers and Promotions: Keep an eye on limited-time promotions. Several rental companies sometimes offer free second drivers during peak travel seasons or as part of package deals.
What Happens if an Unauthorized Driver Drives a Rental Car?
If an unauthorized driver drives a rental car, it can cause serious problems. Most rental agreements state that only listed drivers are allowed to operate the vehicle. What happens if you drive a rental car that is not in your name?
If an unauthorized driver gets into an accident, the rental company may cancel the insurance coverage. This means you can be responsible for all damages, repair costs, or liabilities. Always add any additional drivers to the rental agreement to avoid these risks. Check the rental policy for specific rules.
Penalty for Unauthorized Driver of Rental Car
When people ask “what happens if unauthorized driver rental car?” They actually want to know the consequences or penalties they might face. If you allow someone not listed on the rental agreement to drive the car, here are some penalties you might face:
Contract Violation: What happens if someone else drives your rental car? If you use a driver who is not allowed by the rental company, you break the rental agreement. This can cancel your insurance and make you responsible for any damage to the vehicle.
Insurance Issues: If a non-authorized driver is in an accident while driving your rental car, such as in “an unauthorized driver rental car accident” scenario, your insurance might not cover the damages. This could lead to large unexpected costs for you.
Financial Penalties: Rental companies, including Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget, often have strict rules against unauthorized drivers. If there is an unauthorized driver rental car Enterprise case or similar situations with other companies, you may face heavy fines or be liable for damages. These fines can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the situation.
Legal Consequences: “What happens if an unauthorized person drives a rental car?” In some cases, allowing an unauthorized driver can result in legal action. You must always discuss additional drivers to avoid unnecessary complications.
Want to keep your rental costs even lower? Read our expert tips on how to avoid hidden fees when renting a car before you book.
Benefits of Adding a Second Driver
Adding a second driver, especially for free, offers several advantages:
1. Shared Driving Responsibility
Long drives become much easier when you have another person to share the wheel. Instead of driving the entire journey yourself, you can take turns behind the wheel, reducing fatigue and improving focus. This is especially useful for road trips, cross-country drives, or vacations where you’ll be spending hours on the road.
2. Improved Safety on the Road
Having a second authorized driver enhances safety for everyone. If the primary driver becomes tired, drowsy, or unwell, the second driver can take over — preventing fatigue-related accidents. Rotating drivers keeps everyone alert, making your road trip smoother and safer from start to finish.
3. Greater Convenience and Flexibility
A second driver can handle local driving, parking, or short errands, making travel more convenient. Whether you’re exploring a new city, visiting attractions, or navigating crowded downtown areas, sharing driving duties helps reduce stress and gives you more time to enjoy the trip instead of worrying about traffic or parking.
4. Peace of Mind and Legal Protection
Adding a second authorized driver ensures both drivers are covered under the rental agreement. This avoids potential penalties or legal issues in case of an accident. Remember — only listed drivers are legally allowed to operate the rental vehicle. So, if you’re wondering “Can more than one person drive a rental car?” — the answer is yes, as long as each additional driver is properly added to the contract.
5. Cost-Effective When Free
Many major rental companies like Enterprise, Alamo, National, Avis, and Budget now offer a free additional driver option for spouses, domestic partners, or loyalty members. This means you can enjoy all these benefits without paying extra fees making it a smart and budget-friendly choice for families and couples.
Conclusion
Well, knowing which car rental companies allow a second driver free can really save money and improve your travel experience. Companies like Enterprise, Alamo, and National offer this benefit under some specific situations, such as adding a spouse or joining a loyalty program.
You should always tell additional drivers to avoid penalties and ensure a hassle-free rental. By planning in advance and choosing the right company, you can enjoy a smoother, safer, and more cost-effective journey.
