Young-driver and additional-driver fees
In short: drivers under 25 (sometimes under 30) usually pay a daily young-driver surcharge, and the minimum rental age is typically 21. Extra drivers may cost a small per-day fee - though many all-inclusive bookings include an additional driver for free. Whatever your age, all-inclusive cover with the excess refunded removes the excess-risk side of the equation.
Young-driver surcharge
Most rental companies add a per-day fee for drivers below a threshold age - commonly 25, occasionally 30. It reflects the higher claims risk insurers attach to younger drivers, and it’s usually collected locally at the desk rather than in the online price. The amount varies widely by country and car category, so check the conditions on your quote before you travel.
Minimum (and maximum) age
The usual minimum is 21, but some destinations allow 18-20 with supplementary cover and additional fees, and certain categories (large or premium cars) set a higher minimum. A few locations also apply a surcharge or restrictions for senior drivers. The age limits and any fees are shown in the rate conditions for your specific booking.
Additional-driver fees
If more than one person will drive, each extra driver normally needs to be named on the contract. Some desks charge per additional driver per day; many all-inclusive rates include one additional driver at no charge. Naming every driver matters - if an unnamed driver has an incident, cover can be void.
How all-inclusive helps younger drivers
- The excess is waived or refunded, so a higher young-driver excess isn’t your problem.
- Glass, tyres, undercarriage and roof are covered - common first-rental knocks.
- An additional driver is often included, so partners can share the wheel.
- No deposit option means no large hold on a card a younger traveller may not have.
The young-driver surcharge itself is set by the local fleet and still applies where relevant, but everything around it - the excess, the exclusions, the deposit - is handled by your all-inclusive rate.
Cover that doesn’t punish your age
Search all-inclusive cars with the excess refunded - and set your driver age in the search.
Search all-inclusive carsFrequently asked questions
What is the young-driver fee for a rental car?
A daily surcharge applied to drivers under 25 (sometimes under 30). It varies by country and car category and is usually paid locally at the counter.
What is the minimum age to rent a car?
Usually 21, though some destinations allow 18-20 with extra cover and fees. The exact minimum depends on the country and car category.
Is the additional-driver fee included?
It depends on the rate and destination. Many all-inclusive bookings include an additional driver at no extra cost; otherwise it is a small per-day fee.
Do under-25s pay more for insurance?
Younger drivers often face a higher excess or surcharge. Choosing all-inclusive cover with the excess refunded removes the excess risk regardless of age.