Car hire age requirements, country by country.

Guide

The basics — minimum age

The minimum car hire age is 21 in most countries worldwide. That single number covers the majority of rental companies across Europe, North America, and Australasia. But the rule is set by each rental company, not by law, so it varies.

Some countries allow rentals from 18 — notably Ireland, Iceland, Israel, and parts of Scandinavia. If you’re under 21, these are the easiest places to hire a car without restrictions, though the vehicle selection is usually limited to smaller models.

In parts of the USA, the effective minimum can be 25 for certain car classes or companies. While most major brands rent to drivers aged 21 and over, premium categories — SUVs, convertibles, luxury vehicles — are often restricted to 25+.

The key takeaway: the minimum age is set by the rental company, not by local law, in almost every country. That means it can differ between brands at the same airport.

Young driver surcharges (ages 21–24)

If you’re between 21 and 24, most rental companies will charge a “young driver surcharge” on top of the standard rental price. This is the single biggest extra cost for younger travellers.

The surcharge typically runs £10–£30 per day, depending on the country and the company. Over a 7-day hire, that adds £70–£210 to your total — a significant cost that can sometimes exceed the base rental price itself.

Some companies have no surcharge for drivers aged 23 or older in certain countries, particularly in Northern Europe and the UK. It’s worth comparing total prices (including the surcharge) rather than just the base rate, because a company with a higher base rate but no surcharge can be cheaper overall.

Minimum age by region

Europe

Most European countries set the minimum hire age at 21, with a young driver surcharge applying until you turn 25. Ireland and Iceland are the notable exceptions — both allow rentals from 18, though vehicle selection is limited and a surcharge still applies for under-25s.

In the UK, most companies require you to be at least 21, though a few accept drivers aged 19–20 for small cars. Luxury and premium categories almost universally require age 25 or older across the continent.

North America

In the USA, the minimum age is 21 in most states. Some companies and car classes require 25, and a young driver surcharge applies for those aged 21–24. The surcharge can be waived in some states for members of certain loyalty programmes or corporate accounts.

Canada follows a similar pattern: 21 minimum, surcharge until 25. Mexico generally requires 21, though some companies insist on 25.

Asia-Pacific

Australia and New Zealand both set the minimum at 21 with a surcharge until 25. Thailand varies by company, with minimums ranging from 21 to 23. Japan is an outlier — you can hire a car at 18 provided you hold a valid international driving permit.

Middle East

The UAE sets the minimum at 21 for most vehicles, though some companies require 22–25 for larger or luxury cars. Oman follows the same 21-minimum pattern.

Maximum age restrictions

Some rental companies set an upper age limit, typically between 70 and 80. This is more common in Southern Europe and parts of Asia than in Northern Europe or North America.

In practice, the restriction is often not enforced if you hold a valid driving licence and can present a medical certificate confirming fitness to drive. The policy varies by company — some have no upper limit at all.

If you’re 70 or older, always check the specific company’s age policy before booking. Comparison sites will show you which companies accept your age, so you can filter out those that don’t.

Tips for young drivers

• Compare total prices including the surcharge — some companies have lower base rates but higher surcharges, so the cheapest headline price isn’t always the cheapest total.
• Check which car classes are available for your age — premium and SUV categories often require 25+.
• Book through comparison sites where the surcharge is included in the displayed price, so you can compare fairly.
• Consider hiring in countries with lower minimum ages and surcharges, such as Ireland or Iceland, if your itinerary is flexible.
• Some companies waive the surcharge for loyalty programme members — worth checking if you hire frequently.