Fees & International 6 min read
Under-25 Car Rentals: Young Driver Surcharges & Fee Waivers
How drivers aged 18–24 can rent a car in the US: age requirements, daily young driver fees, and fee waiver tricks.
Written byNathaniel Grant
Senior Travel Editor & Aviation Specialist
Fact-checked by Marcus Vance
Updated September 2026
AI Travel Summary & Overview
Guide Key Takeaways & Overview
How drivers aged 18–24 can rent a car in the US: age requirements, daily young driver fees, and fee waiver tricks.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Minimum rental age is 21 with most major US rental companies
- New York and Michigan require rentals to 18-year-olds by state law
- AAA membership or corporate discount codes frequently waive under-25 fees
Age Requirements & Daily Surcharges
While most major US car rental companies rent to drivers aged 20–24 (and 18 in NY/MI), they impose a daily Young Driver Fee ranging from $15 to $35 per day.
- Minimum rental age is 21 with most major US rental companies
- New York and Michigan require rentals to 18-year-olds by state law
- AAA membership or corporate discount codes frequently waive under-25 fees
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I waive the under-25 young driver fee?
Joining AAA or using specific USAA / corporate AWD discount codes often waives the daily young driver fee with Hertz, Avis, and Budget.