Most car rental companies require drivers to be 25 or older to rent a car. Some allow 21- to 24-year-olds to rent cars but charge them more. In almost all cases, drivers must be at least 21. In several states, the minimum age is 18, but companies that rent to drivers this young require additional deposits. Regardless of age, drivers must provide proof of insurance and usually must make a credit card deposit to cover potential damage to the rental car.
E-Z Rent-A-Car
E-Z Rent-A-Car is one of the few national car rental companies that rents cars to drivers who are 18. States where 18-year-olds can rent cars, according to the company's website, include Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and Texas. The surcharge is $25 per day.
Avis
In New York, 18-year-old drivers can rent cars from Avis but must pay an additional $52 per day. Drivers must also have a credit card on file with Avis.
Budget
Budget rents cars to drivers 18 and over in New York and Michigan. In New York, the surcharge is $52 per day; in Michigan, the surcharge is $41 per day.
National
In New York, the surcharge for 18-year-old drivers is $60 per day; in Michigan, it is $28 per day.
Alamo
At certain locations in New York and Michigan, Alamo rents to drivers who are at least 18. In New York there is a $52-per-day surcharge. In Michigan, the surcharge is $41 per day.
Rent-A-Wreck
Rent-A-Wreck rents to drivers who are 18, but this minimum age requirement is set by location; check specific Rent-A-Wreck locations for details.