{"id":854,"date":"2025-11-04T01:25:23","date_gmt":"2025-11-04T01:25:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/?p=854"},"modified":"2025-11-04T20:10:26","modified_gmt":"2025-11-04T20:10:26","slug":"can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/","title":{"rendered":"Can You Book a Rental Car for Someone Else? U.S. Rules &#038; Smart Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_62 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Can_You_Book_a_Rental_Car_for_Someone_Else_US_Guide\" title=\"Can You Book a Rental Car for Someone Else? (U.S. Guide)\">Can You Book a Rental Car for Someone Else? (U.S. Guide)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Why_many_rental_companies_make_reservations_only_in_the_drivers_name\" title=\"Why many rental companies make reservations only in the driver\u2019s name\">Why many rental companies make reservations only in the driver\u2019s name<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#1_Legal_responsibility\" title=\"1. Legal responsibility\">1. Legal responsibility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#2_Insurance_and_coverage\" title=\"2. Insurance and coverage\">2. Insurance and coverage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#3_Payment_card_and_identity_verification\" title=\"3. Payment card and identity verification\">3. Payment card and identity verification<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#What_you_can_do_when_renting_a_car_for_someone_else\" title=\"What you can do when renting a car for someone else\">What you can do when renting a car for someone else<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#You_pay_%E2%80%93_they_drive_as_primary\" title=\"You pay \u2013 they drive (as primary)\">You pay \u2013 they drive (as primary)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#You_book_in_your_name_add_them_as_an_authorized_additional_driver\" title=\"You book in your name, add them as an authorized additional driver\">You book in your name, add them as an authorized additional driver<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Use_a_businesscorporate_account\" title=\"Use a business\/corporate account\">Use a business\/corporate account<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Use_rental_gift_cards_or_third-party_payment_with_caution\" title=\"Use rental gift cards or third-party payment (with caution)\">Use rental gift cards or third-party payment (with caution)<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#How_to_add_an_additional_driver_step-by-step\" title=\"How to add an additional driver (step-by-step)\">How to add an additional driver (step-by-step)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Comparison_Major_US_rental_companies_%E2%80%94_additional_driver_fees_exceptions\" title=\"Comparison: Major U.S. rental companies \u2014 additional driver fees &amp; exceptions\">Comparison: Major U.S. rental companies \u2014 additional driver fees &amp; exceptions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Who_can_drive_the_rental_car_Requirements_you_must_meet\" title=\"Who can drive the rental car? Requirements you must meet\">Who can drive the rental car? Requirements you must meet<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Renting_a_car_for_someone_else_%E2%80%94_what_you_need_to_check\" title=\"Renting a car for someone else \u2014 what you need to check\">Renting a car for someone else \u2014 what you need to check<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Tips_tricks_to_save_and_stay_covered\" title=\"Tips &amp; tricks to save and stay covered\">Tips &amp; tricks to save and stay covered<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Final_thoughts\" title=\"Final thoughts\">Final thoughts<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-i-book-a-rental-car-for-someone-else\/#Related_Posts\" title=\"Related Posts\">Related Posts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_You_Book_a_Rental_Car_for_Someone_Else_US_Guide\"><\/span><b>Can You Book a Rental Car for Someone Else? (U.S. Guide)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In most cases <\/span><b>no<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you cannot simply book a rental car under your name and have someone else pick it up and drive it without that person being properly listed.<br \/>\nHowever, you <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> pay for the rental, or you can add the other person as an authorized additional driver if you follow the company\u2019s rules. Below is a full, U.S.-focused guide on how to do it properly, what the restrictions are, and how to stay safe (and legal).<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_many_rental_companies_make_reservations_only_in_the_drivers_name\"><\/span><b>Why many rental companies make reservations only in the driver\u2019s name<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-1709\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I.webp?resize=1024%2C576&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"WHY CAR RENTAL RESERVATIONS MUST BE IN THE DRIVER NAME\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I.webp?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I.webp?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I.webp?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I.webp?resize=800%2C450&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I.webp?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you rent a car in the U.S., the rental company wants to know exactly who is driving, that they meet the age and license requirements, and that payment and insurance are covered. There are three big reasons for this:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Legal_responsibility\"><\/span><b>1. Legal responsibility<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The rental company needs to have a binding contract with the person who will drive the vehicle. If you book it but someone else drives, the rental company may not have the legal relationship with that driver, making things risky if there\u2019s damage, theft or an accident.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Insurance_and_coverage\"><\/span><b>2. Insurance and coverage<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When a driver is not listed in the rental agreement (or not approved), insurance coverage (whether the rental company\u2019s or your personal\/credit-card coverage) may be void. For example, if an unauthorized person drives and crashes, the insurance may deny the claim.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Payment_card_and_identity_verification\"><\/span><b>3. Payment card and identity verification<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most rental companies require the primary driver (and payment card holder) to be present at pickup, present a valid driver\u2019s license, and sign the agreement. If you book for someone else but you\u2019re not going to be the driver, this may create issues at the counter.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Before booking,<\/strong> it\u2019s worth understanding how car rental policies vary \u2014 for instance, whether you can <a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-you-take-a-rental-car-out-of-state\/\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong data-start=\"676\" data-end=\"776\">take a rental car out of state<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or add someone else as a driver<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_you_can_do_when_renting_a_car_for_someone_else\"><\/span><b>What you <\/b><b><i>can<\/i><\/b><b> do when renting a car for someone else<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While you can\u2019t bypass the contract rules, here are legitimate ways to accommodate someone else driving.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You_pay_%E2%80%93_they_drive_as_primary\"><\/span><b>You pay \u2013 they drive (as primary)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You make the reservation in their name, you pay (if the company allows), but the <\/span><b>driver must be the one present at pickup<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with their license, and must sign. The driver\u2019s name must be on the contract.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"You_book_in_your_name_add_them_as_an_authorized_additional_driver\"><\/span><b>You book in your name, add them as an authorized additional driver<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you will technically be the renter, but someone else will drive, you can list them as an \u201cadditional driver\u201d on the rental agreement. They must meet the same age\/license requirements and be present when added. They\u2019re then allowed to drive under the agreement.<br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> For example: Avis lets you add additional drivers at ~$13 per day in many U.S. states. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Enterprise notes a standard additional driver fee of about $15 per day (unless waived under certain conditions).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_a_businesscorporate_account\"><\/span><b>Use a business\/corporate account<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the renter is a business and the employee will drive, many rental companies have corporate contracts that streamline this process (billing the company, letting an employee drive). Under those setups the company is the renter and the driver is authorized.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_rental_gift_cards_or_third-party_payment_with_caution\"><\/span><b>Use rental gift cards or third-party payment (with caution)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you literally cannot be the driver but wish to pay, you might purchase a gift card or pay for the rental yourself\u00a0 but the driver still must meet the company\u2019s \u201cprimary driver signs\u201d requirement.<br \/>\nYou\u2019re basically paying on behalf of someone else, not circumventing the need for their identity and signature.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_add_an_additional_driver_step-by-step\"><\/span><b>How to add an additional driver (step-by-step)<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-1708\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/how-ato-add-additional-driver.webp?resize=1024%2C559&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"how ato add additional driver\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/how-ato-add-additional-driver.webp?resize=1024%2C559&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/how-ato-add-additional-driver.webp?resize=300%2C164&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/how-ato-add-additional-driver.webp?resize=768%2C419&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/how-ato-add-additional-driver.webp?w=1408&amp;ssl=1 1408w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At reservation time (online or phone), indicate you may want to add an additional driver.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At pickup: Both the primary renter and the additional driver must present valid driver\u2019s license(s). <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional driver signs the rental agreement (or the company notes their name\/licence on the contract).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Payment method (card) is verified under the primary renter\u2019s name (in many cases).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fee assessed (if applicable) \u2014 the cost is typically \u201cper additional driver, per day\u201d until the driver is removed. Example: Avis ~$13\/day. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both drivers adhere to age, license, and any location\/usage restrictions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most companies require the main driver to be present, but there are ways around this, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/penalty-for-unauthorized-driver-of-rental-car\/\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong data-start=\"1093\" data-end=\"1214\">adding an additional driver without paying high fees<\/strong><\/span><\/a> or using certain loyalty programs.<\/p>\n<p><b>Important:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you try to let someone else drive who isn\u2019t listed, the rental company can void the contract or insurance coverage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Comparison_Major_US_rental_companies_%E2%80%94_additional_driver_fees_exceptions\"><\/span><b>Comparison: Major U.S. rental companies \u2014 additional driver fees &amp; exceptions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 77.0256%; height: 144px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 43.7212%; height: 24px;\"><strong>Company<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 53.8857%; height: 24px;\"><strong>Typical Additional Driver Fee\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 43.7212%; height: 24px;\">Avis<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 53.8857%; height: 24px;\">$13\/day in many states<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 43.7212%; height: 24px;\">National<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 53.8857%; height: 24px;\">$15\/day for each additional driver<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 43.7212%; height: 24px;\">Enterprise<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 53.8857%; height: 24px;\">$15\/day (varies by location)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 43.7212%; height: 24px;\">Thrifty<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 53.8857%; height: 24px;\">$13.50\/day for additional driver<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 43.7212%; height: 24px;\">Hertz<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 53.8857%; height: 24px;\">\u00a0policy allows many drivers but details vary by state<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><b>Takeaway:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Always check at the specific location you\u2019ll rent from. Fees and fee-waiver policies vary by state, city and rental station.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_can_drive_the_rental_car_Requirements_you_must_meet\"><\/span><b>Who can drive the rental car? Requirements you must meet<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Primary renter:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> must meet the company\u2019s minimum age (often 21\u201325 depending on state &amp; vehicle class), hold a valid U.S. driver\u2019s license (or acceptable foreign license in some cases), and have a valid payment card.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Additional driver:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in most cases must meet the same age\/license requirements. In many U.S. states, additional drivers must also be present at pickup. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Insurance\/coverage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> All listed drivers are covered by the terms of the contract. Unlisted drivers are not\u2014and risk voiding coverage. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Spouse or domestic partner:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Many companies waive the additional driver fee if the second driver is a spouse or domestic partner, but confirm with the specific location.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Renting_a_car_for_someone_else_%E2%80%94_what_you_need_to_check\"><\/span><b>Renting a car for someone else \u2014 what you need to check<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-1711\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renting-a-car-for-someone-else-%E2%80%94-what-you-need-to-check-1.webp?resize=1024%2C683&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renting-a-car-for-someone-else-%E2%80%94-what-you-need-to-check-1.webp?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renting-a-car-for-someone-else-%E2%80%94-what-you-need-to-check-1.webp?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renting-a-car-for-someone-else-%E2%80%94-what-you-need-to-check-1.webp?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Renting-a-car-for-someone-else-%E2%80%94-what-you-need-to-check-1.webp?w=1536&amp;ssl=1 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who will drive? Make sure the driver is listed and present at pickup.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who pays? If you pay, ensure the rental company accepts a card in your name with someone else driving.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional driver fee? Ask what it will be, and whether the driver qualifies for an exception (spouse, corporate).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insurance\/coverage check: Confirm that the contract covers the listed driver(s), and know what happens if someone not listed drives.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All paperwork: Driver\u2019s license, payment card, reservation number, proof of insurance (if relying on personal policy).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pickup &amp; return: The driver or authorized person must collect and return the vehicle; be clear who will handle drop-off, fuel, etc.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_tricks_to_save_and_stay_covered\"><\/span><b>Tips &amp; tricks to save and stay covered<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ask for fee waivers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If the additional driver is your spouse, domestic partner or fellow employee under a corporate contract, ask if the driver fee is waived.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Join loyalty programs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Some rental companies waive driver fees for members or elite status. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pay attention to age\/vehicle class restrictions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If your additional driver is under 25, expect higher fees or certain vehicles may not qualify.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Make sure everyone is listed<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Never allow someone to drive without being added \u2014 the cost if something happens could be far higher than the \u201cextra driver\u201d fee. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Read the contract<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: At pickup, ask for clarification of additional driver rules and hidden fees for your state\/location.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<p><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Keep documentation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Print or save the reservation confirmation, the contract, and keep records of who is allowed to drive.<br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<b><\/b><\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Check your insurance\/credit-card coverage<\/b><span>: If you\u2019re relying on your personal auto insurance or credit-card rental insurance, verify they don\u2019t have exclusions if someone else drives who isn\u2019t listed.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you rent cars often, you\u2019ll also want to understand <span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/what-happens-if-your-car-is-stolen\/\"><strong data-start=\"4163\" data-end=\"4276\">what happens if a rental car gets stolen<\/strong> <\/a><\/span>and how to file a claim efficiently.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Q: Can I book a rental car for someone else entirely ?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0 In general, no. The driver must be the person who signs the agreement, meets the age\/license criteria and is listed. If you book in your name but someone else drives without being listed, you risk voiding the contract or insurance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Q: Can the payment card be in my name while someone else drives?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0 Sometimes yes\u00a0 paying in your name is acceptable if the driver is properly listed and meets the criteria. But many locations still require the cardholder to be present or at least the card to be in the driver\u2019s name. Always check with the rental location.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Q: Is there always a fee for an additional driver?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Not always. It depends on the rental company, state law and whether the driver is exempt (for example spouse\/domestic partner, employee under corporate account). Typical U.S. fees range ~$13\u201315\/day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Q: What happens if an unauthorized driver gets in the car and has an accident?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major risk: the rental company may void the agreement, insurance might deny claims, you may be personally liable for damages and legal costs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Q: Can I add an additional driver in the middle of the rental?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes many rental companies allow adding a driver mid-contract, but usually both renter and new driver must show up at a rental location to complete the paperwork.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Q: Do age and driver-experience rules differ for additional drivers?<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Often yes. While the minimum age may be 21 for rental, many companies require additional drivers to be 25 or have held a license for a certain length of time. Younger drivers often incur surcharges or restrictions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_thoughts\"><\/span><b>Final thoughts<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re planning to rent a car for someone else\u00a0 or pay for someone else\u2019s rental take a few minutes to check the rental company\u2019s specific policy, state laws, and ensure the driver is properly authorized. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The extra driver fee might seem small in the moment, but the risk of someone driving without being listed is far higher: voided insurance, denied claims, hefty liability. On the flip side, when done correctly, you get peace of mind, flexibility, and smoother travel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treat the process like a mini-contract: outline who is paying, who is driving, who\u2019s listed, what the fees are, and keep all documentation. When you do, you\u2019ll be ready for whatever the road brings\u00a0 without unexpected fees or liability surprises.<\/span><\/p>\n<style>\r\n\r\n        .lwrp.link-whisper-related-posts{\r\n            \r\n            margin-top: 40px;\nmargin-bottom: 30px;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-title{\r\n            \r\n            \r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-description{\r\n            \r\n            \r\n\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-container{\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-multi-container{\r\n            display: flex;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-double{\r\n            width: 48%;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-triple{\r\n            width: 32%;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container{\r\n            display: flex;\r\n            justify-content: space-between;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container .lwrp-list-item{\r\n            width: calc(25% - 20px);\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item:not(.lwrp-no-posts-message-item){\r\n            \r\n            \r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item img{\r\n            max-width: 100%;\r\n            height: auto;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item.lwrp-empty-list-item{\r\n            background: initial !important;\r\n        }\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-link .lwrp-list-link-title-text,\r\n        .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-no-posts-message{\r\n            \r\n                \r\n        }\r\n        @media screen and (max-width: 480px) {\r\n            .lwrp.link-whisper-related-posts{\r\n                \r\n                \r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-title{\r\n                \r\n                \r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-description{\r\n                \r\n                \r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-multi-container{\r\n                flex-direction: column;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-multi-container ul.lwrp-list{\r\n                margin-top: 0px;\r\n                margin-bottom: 0px;\r\n                padding-top: 0px;\r\n                padding-bottom: 0px;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-double,\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-triple{\r\n                width: 100%;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container{\r\n                justify-content: initial;\r\n                flex-direction: column;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-row-container .lwrp-list-item{\r\n                width: 100%;\r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-item:not(.lwrp-no-posts-message-item){\r\n                \r\n                \r\n            }\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-link .lwrp-list-link-title-text,\r\n            .lwrp .lwrp-list-item .lwrp-list-no-posts-message{\r\n                \r\n                    \r\n            }\r\n        }<\/style>\r\n<div id=\"link-whisper-related-posts-widget\" class=\"link-whisper-related-posts lwrp\">\r\n            <h3 class=\"lwrp-title\">Related Posts<\/h3>    \r\n        <div class=\"lwrp-list-container\">\r\n                                            <div class=\"lwrp-list-multi-container\">\r\n                    <ul class=\"lwrp-list lwrp-list-double lwrp-list-left\">\r\n                        <li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/what-happens-if-your-rental-car-gets-towed\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">What Happens If Your Rental Car Gets Towed?<\/span><\/a><\/li><li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/can-you-take-a-rental-car-out-of-state\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">Can You Take A Rental Car Out Of State?<\/span><\/a><\/li><li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/what-happens-if-your-car-is-stolen\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">What Happens If Your Car Is Stolen?<\/span><\/a><\/li>                    <\/ul>\r\n                    <ul class=\"lwrp-list lwrp-list-double lwrp-list-right\">\r\n                        <li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/are-dogs-allowed-in-rental-cars\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">Are Dogs Allowed in Rental Cars? A Comprehensive Guide<\/span><\/a><\/li><li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/what-happens-if-your-rental-car-needs-an-oil-change\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">What Happens If Your Rental Car Needs An Oil Change?<\/span><\/a><\/li><li class=\"lwrp-list-item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/penalty-for-unauthorized-driver-of-rental-car\/\" class=\"lwrp-list-link\"><span class=\"lwrp-list-link-title-text\">Penalty For Unauthorized Driver of Rental Car<\/span><\/a><\/li>                    <\/ul>\r\n                <\/div>\r\n                        <\/div>\r\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Can You Book a Rental Car for Someone Else? (U.S. Guide) In most cases no, you cannot simply book a rental car under your name and have someone else pick it up and drive it without that person being properly listed. However, you can pay for the rental, or you can add the other person [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":1710,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"ocean_post_layout":"","ocean_both_sidebars_style":"","ocean_both_sidebars_content_width":0,"ocean_both_sidebars_sidebars_width":0,"ocean_sidebar":"0","ocean_second_sidebar":"0","ocean_disable_margins":"enable","ocean_add_body_class":"","ocean_shortcode_before_top_bar":"","ocean_shortcode_after_top_bar":"","ocean_shortcode_before_header":"","ocean_shortcode_after_header":"","ocean_has_shortcode":"","ocean_shortcode_after_title":"","ocean_shortcode_before_footer_widgets":"","ocean_shortcode_after_footer_widgets":"","ocean_shortcode_before_footer_bottom":"","ocean_shortcode_after_footer_bottom":"","ocean_display_top_bar":"default","ocean_display_header":"default","ocean_header_style":"","ocean_center_header_left_menu":"0","ocean_custom_header_template":"0","ocean_custom_logo":0,"ocean_custom_retina_logo":0,"ocean_custom_logo_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_tablet_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_mobile_max_width":0,"ocean_custom_logo_max_height":0,"ocean_custom_logo_tablet_max_height":0,"ocean_custom_logo_mobile_max_height":0,"ocean_header_custom_menu":"0","ocean_menu_typo_font_family":"0","ocean_menu_typo_font_subset":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_size":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_font_size_unit":"px","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight_tablet":"","ocean_menu_typo_font_weight_mobile":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform_tablet":"","ocean_menu_typo_transform_mobile":"","ocean_menu_typo_line_height":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_line_height_unit":"","ocean_menu_typo_spacing":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_tablet":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_mobile":0,"ocean_menu_typo_spacing_unit":"","ocean_menu_link_color":"","ocean_menu_link_color_hover":"","ocean_menu_link_color_active":"","ocean_menu_link_background":"","ocean_menu_link_hover_background":"","ocean_menu_link_active_background":"","ocean_menu_social_links_bg":"","ocean_menu_social_hover_links_bg":"","ocean_menu_social_links_color":"","ocean_menu_social_hover_links_color":"","ocean_disable_title":"default","ocean_disable_heading":"default","ocean_post_title":"","ocean_post_subheading":"","ocean_post_title_style":"","ocean_post_title_background_color":"","ocean_post_title_background":0,"ocean_post_title_bg_image_position":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_attachment":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_repeat":"","ocean_post_title_bg_image_size":"","ocean_post_title_height":0,"ocean_post_title_bg_overlay":0.5,"ocean_post_title_bg_overlay_color":"","ocean_disable_breadcrumbs":"default","ocean_breadcrumbs_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_separator_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_links_color":"","ocean_breadcrumbs_links_hover_color":"","ocean_display_footer_widgets":"default","ocean_display_footer_bottom":"default","ocean_custom_footer_template":"0","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"ocean_post_oembed":"","ocean_post_self_hosted_media":"","ocean_post_video_embed":"","ocean_link_format":"","ocean_link_format_target":"self","ocean_quote_format":"","ocean_quote_format_link":"post","ocean_gallery_link_images":"on","ocean_gallery_id":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[38,39],"class_list":["post-854","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-car-rental-tips","tag-additional-driver","tag-rental-car-gets-stolen","entry","has-media"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/WHY-CAR-RENTAL-RESERVATIONS-MUST-BE-I-1.webp?fit=1280%2C720&ssl=1","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/854","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=854"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/854\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1712,"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/854\/revisions\/1712"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/carandrentals.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1710"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c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