How old do you have to be to rent a car?

[Jessica♦☮]

I'm 21 and I am going to California (by plane), but I want to do some traveling around myself. Also, if it is 21 (by any chance), can you pay with a debit card? If not, does it have to be MY credit card?

I asked this question before but didn't get very many responses.

 

[Lemon Twirl Girl]

i believe you have to be 21 or 22

 

[~Brownie~]

i've heard you have to be 25 to rent a car

 

[pbleek]

Most agencies require that you at least be the golden age of 25. Exceptions: The good news is if you are under 25, but over 21 years of age, you may be allowed to rent at some locations. The bad news is that you will be charged an additional daily fee. Alamo, Dollar, Enterprise and Thrifty are some agencies that follow this policy at many of their locations. Other agencies may require that you are in the government, military or have a special corporate account to qualify under the age of 25. Many smaller local rental car companies allow drivers 21 years or older and some even allow drivers 18 years or older. Most require a young driver surcharge in these cases. Check first!