Most cars on our site require the driver to be at least 21, with a licence held for at least a year. Drivers aged 21–24 usually pay a daily young-driver surcharge (shown before you book), and some larger, premium or sports cars are restricted to drivers 25 and over.
The standard minimums
- Age 21 is the usual floor for economy and compact cars, though some suppliers set 22–23 for certain car groups.
- Licence held 12 months — most desks require at least a year of driving history, regardless of your age.
- Age 25 and over is common for premium saloons, larger SUVs and sports models.
Young-driver surcharges
If you're between 21 and 24, expect a daily young-driver surcharge on top of the rental rate. It's not hidden: the fee appears in the rate details before you confirm, so the total you see is the total you'll pay. The exact amount varies by supplier and car class and is always shown at the time of booking.
Search with your age entered
The simplest way to avoid surprises is to enter your age when you search cars on our site. Prices then include any applicable surcharge, and cars you can't book at your age are filtered out — no wasted comparisons, no awkward conversation at the desk.
Before you book
Double-check the driver requirements in the rate's rental conditions, especially for premium models where age floors run higher. For documents, deposits and everything else the desk will ask for, see car rental help.