Can You Rent a Car With a Temporary License?

You typically need the following to rent a car:

1. Valid driver's license: You must have a valid driver's license that is recognized in the country or region where you plan to rent the car. Make sure your license is not expired and meets any age requirements set by the rental company. More about temporary licenses below. 

2. Age requirement: Most car rental companies have a minimum age requirement, which is usually between 21 and 25 years old. Some rental companies may also add additional fees for drivers under a certain age or restrict certain types of vehicles.

3. Credit card or payment method: You will generally need a credit card in your name to make the reservation and pay for the rental. The rental company will place a hold on your credit card for the estimated rental charges, and the actual amount will be charged when you return the car. 

4. Rental car insurance: You may be required to provide proof of insurance coverage, either through your personal auto insurance policy or by purchasing the rental company's insurance. Check with the rental company about their specific insurance requirements.

5. Reservation: It's a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure the availability of the vehicle you want. You can usually make a reservation online, through a mobile app, or by contacting the rental company directly.

6. Additional drivers: If you want to add an additional driver, they will need to meet the same requirements as the primary driver and provide their driver's license information at the time of rental. Additional fees may apply for each extra driver. With FINN, you can add an additional driver free of charge. Browse cars today.

7. Other documentation: Depending on the rental company and the country you're renting in, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport, proof of address, or international driver's license if you're renting in a foreign country.

A temporary driver's license is a document  that allows someone to legally drive for a limited period of time while they wait for their permanent driver's license to be processed and issued. It serves as a temporary identification and driving permit until the official license is received. Typical situations where you might have a temporary license are:

1. New drivers: If you’ve  recently passed a  driver's test and met all the requirements for obtaining a driver's license, the DMV may issue you a  temporary license that you can use while you wait for a  permanent one to be printed and mailed.

2. License renewal: When you renew your driver's licenses, a temporary license may be issued if your current license has expired, but you’ve already applied for a renewal.

3. Lost or stolen licenses: If you lose your driver's license or it gets stolen, you may be issued a temporary license as a replacement until you can get a new permanent license.

4. Address or name change: When you update your address or change your name, a temporary license reflecting the updated information could be issued while waiting for the permanent one.

To get a temporary license, go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or website to learn what your state’s process is to apply. 

Yes, you can rent a car with a temporary license. While waiting for your permanent license, it is possible to rent a car with these steps. 

How to rent a car with a temporary license 

1. Check with the rental company: Start by contacting the rental company directly and inquire about their specific policies regarding temporary licenses. Not all rental companies may accept temporary licenses, so it's important to confirm their requirements beforehand.
2. Valid identification: Even if you have a temporary license, you will still need to provide additional forms of identification. This could include a valid passport, a government-issued identification card, or another form of identification that the rental company accepts.
3. Age requirement: Ensure that you meet the rental company's age requirements. Typically, you need to be a certain age (e.g., 21 or 25) to rent a car, regardless of the type of license you hold.
4. Insurance coverage: Check if your temporary license is covered under your personal auto insurance policy or any other insurance coverage you may have. Additionally, some rental companies offer their own insurance options that you can purchase. With FINN, a rental car alternative, car insurance is included in your monthly fee. 
5. Pre-booking: Make a reservation in advance to ensure availability and to notify the rental company about your temporary license. This allows them to provide you with any specific instructions or requirements.
6. Provide necessary documents: When picking up the rental car, bring all the required documents, including your temporary license, additional identification, proof of insurance, and any other documents requested by the rental company.

Rental car companies that allow temporary licenses

• Budget
• Enterprise
• Hertz
• Alamo
• Avis
• Dollar
• Thrifty

Many of these companies may have stipulations such as the license not having any restrictions or having to provide other government forms of identification. Be sure to check with the company before renting to ensure you do not have any issues in the process. 

If you are undecided whether you should rent a car or not while you do not have a driver’s license, consider an alternative: a car subscription. This is a solution that affords you flexibility and a lower commitment. Browse the many models offered to see which vehicle meets your needs with FINN.