Washington is a great state to visit, with plenty of things to see and do. If you’re planning on renting a car while you’re there, it’s important to know the age requirements. In this blog post, we’ll answer the question: “How old do you have to be to rent a car in Washington?” We’ll also provide a few tips for renting cars in Washington State. Let’s get started!
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Car In Washington?
The minimum age to rent a car in Washington is 21 years old. Most of US states have a minimum age requirement of 21 years old, with a few exceptions.
Here is a list of rental car companies in Washington and their young driver’s fee policy:
- Alamo: $25 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Avis: $27 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Enterprise: $25 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Fox Rent A Car: $20 to $30 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Hertz: $19 to $35 per day (ages 20 to 24)
- National: $20 to $30 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Sixt: $15 to $35 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Thrifty: $25 to $35 per day (ages 21 to 24)
- Dollar: $25 to $35 per day (ages 21 to 24)
If you’re under the age of 21, you may still be able to rent a car in Washington if you meet one of the following criteria:
- To rent a car at 18, you must be military personnel or a government employee with official government documentation.
- In certain instances, corporate contracts allow people aged 18 and older to rent.
If you’re looking to rent a car and are 21 years of age or older, in most cases you will need either a valid college student ID card, a valid driver’s license with a photo ID, a passport, or an international driver’s license. If not, then securing a rental car may be difficult.
Renting A Car Under 25 In Washington
If you’re under the age of 25, you may be charged an additional daily surcharge, also known as a “young driver surcharge.” This fee is typically around $25 per day. In some cases, it may be possible to avoid this fee by providing proof of full coverage insurance.
Keep in mind that even if you’re over the age of 21, you may still have trouble renting a car if you don’t have a major credit card. Most rental car companies require customers to have a major credit card in order to rent a vehicle. This is because they may need to charge additional fees, such as for gas or damages.
As you can see, there is a wide range in prices for the young driver’s fee. It’s important to do your research ahead of time so that you can find the best deal.
What is the maximum age to rent a car in Washington?
There is no maximum age limit to rent a car in Washington State. As long as you have a valid driver’s license and meet the other requirements, you should be able to rent a car.
For renter over the age of 70, some companies may require additional documentation. This is typically in the form of a doctor’s note or an insurance policy.
Tips For Renting Cars In Washington
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when renting cars in Washington:
- Be sure to compare rates from multiple rental car companies.
- Ask about the young driver’s fee before you book.
- Make sure you have a major credit card in order to avoid any issues.
- Check to see if your hotel or resort offers any discounts on car rentals
- You can prepay for a rental car and usually get a better rate.
- Be aware of fees that drive up the price
- Rent from an off-airport location
- Try flying to a big city, then rent a car to get into a far destination
- Find seasonal sales
- Just go with it
Be sure to compare rates from multiple rental car companies.
This is always a good idea, no matter where you’re renting a car. By comparing rates, you can be sure that you’re getting the best deal possible.
There are a few different ways to compare rental car rates. You can use an online travel agency, such as Expedia or Priceline. Or, you can go directly to the rental car company’s website.
Another option is to use a car rental search engine, such as CarRentals.com. This can be a helpful way to compare rates from multiple companies at once.
Once you’ve found a few different options, it’s time to start comparing rates. Be sure to look at the total cost of the rental, not just the daily rate.
You should also look at what’s included in the rate. For example, some companies may include taxes and fees, while others may not.
It’s also a good idea to read the fine print. Some companies may charge additional fees for things like young drivers or fuel.
##Ask about the young driver’s fee before you book.
This is an important fee to be aware of, especially if you’re under the age of 25. As we mentioned before, the young driver’s fee can range from $19 to $30 per day.
If you’re renting a car for multiple days, this fee can really add up. That’s why it’s important to ask about it before you book.
You can either ask the rental car company directly, or you can use a car rental search engine. CarRental.com, for example, includes the young driver’s fee in the total cost of the rental.
Make sure you have a major credit card in order to avoid any issues.
As we mentioned before, most rental car companies require customers to have a major credit card. This is because they may need to charge additional fees, such as for gas or damages.
If you don’t have a major credit card, you may still be able to rent a car. However, you may have to put down a larger deposit. Or, you may be required to purchase additional insurance.
Check to see if your hotel or resort offers any discounts on car rentals.
If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, be sure to ask about any discounts they offer on car rentals. Many hotels and resorts have partnerships with rental car companies and can offer their guests special rates.
You can prepay for a rental car and usually get a better rate.
While you’re able to pay for your rental car when you pick it up, in most cases it’s cheaper to prepay. This is because rental car companies will offer discounts for customers who prepay. Be sure to compare rates before you decide whether or not to prepay.
Be aware of fees that drive up the price
Rental car companies will often try to add on extra fees that can drive up the price of your rental. Be sure to ask about any potential fees before you agree to rent a car. Some common fees include:
- Gasoline charges
- Damage fees
- Toll charges
- Late return fees
Rent from an off-airport location
If you’re looking to save money on your rental car, consider renting from an off-airport location. Rental car companies typically charge higher rates for customers who rent from airport locations.
Try flying to a big city, then rent a car to get into a far destination
Flying into a big city and renting a car is often cheaper than flying directly to your destination. This is because big cities have more competition among rental car companies, which drives down prices.
Find seasonal sales
Rental car prices tend to be lower in the off-season. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider searching for deals during the off-season.
Just go with it
Sometimes the best way to find a great deal on a rental car is to just go for it. If you’re flexible with your travel plans, you may be able to find a last-minute deal that’s too good to pass up.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car can be a great way to see more of Washington. Just be sure to do your research and know the ins and outs before you book.
By following the tips above, you’ll be sure to find a great deal on your rental car. And, you’ll be able to hit the road and explore all that Washington has to offer.
Happy travels!
