We all have those times where we need to travel at the last minute. Whether it is an unplanned road trip or an early bird flight, hiring a car may be a part of your last minute plans. But what if your license has expired? Will you be able to still hire a car?
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Can I Rent a Car with an Expired License?
Unfortunately, you cannot rent a car with an expired license. According to Budget, anyone that rents a car is required to have a valid driver’s license.
Those who have had their license suspended are also ineligible to hire a car. This ruling is also for additional drivers, not just the main renter.
The only exception is for members of the United States Armed Forces who are returning from service. According to Alamo, they are able to use their expired license in their home state.
So what are some of the other guidelines around renting a car in the United States.
Can I Rent a Car with a Temporary License?
A temporary license is a paper license issued when you have renewed your license, obtained a license in a new state or replaced a lost or stolen license. You are able to rent a car with this temporary license, however you will be required by the rental company to provide another sufficient form of photo identification, such as a passport.
What Forms of ID are Needed for International Travelers to Rent a Car?
When arriving in the US by plane, you will be able to hire a car from a variety of rental companies at the airport of arrival. Providing you have a valid driver’s license from your home country, hiring a car will not be a problem as an international traveler.
The license will need to be the same class as the hire vehicle, as well as be valid for the duration of your hire period. The name will need to also match your passport and feature a photo.
Both forms of identification will be required to rent a car. For more information, including what type of translation is required if your license is not in English, enquire with your rental company such as National.
How Old do you Have to be to Rent a Car?
The minimum age requirements for renting a car differs from state to state, and it can differ between rental car companies as well.
Budget requires you to be 21 in the majority of states (New York and Michigan you are required to be 18). Hertz minimum age is 20 years old. Keep in mind that if you rent a car under the age of 25, your insurance premium is often higher and additional fees may apply.
Will the Rental Car Company Check my Driving History?
A rental car company does reserve the right to check with the DMV about your driver history to ensure that what you have told them is accurate. If you do have a traffic infraction, this does not mean you are ineligible to rent a car. Make sure you read the rental car company driver policy and ask any questions before you travel, so you don’t find yourself stuck.
Final Thoughts
Make sure you do your research before traveling as rental companies vary in vehicles offered, credit cards accepted as well as rules and regulations about additional drivers. It is easy to forget that when you rent a car, that you are actually entering into a legal contract.
Make sure you read all the fine print before signing for the car. There is nothing worse than being charged extra fees when you return the car. As always, research before travel is the key to a stress free car rental.
