Young driver car rental (18–25)
You can usually rent from age 21 (sometimes 18–19), but drivers under about 25 often pay a young-driver surcharge per day, and some car groups require 23 or 25. Because younger drivers face higher excess on standard rentals, an all-inclusive booking with zero excess is the safest way to keep costs predictable.
Minimum age and car groups
The minimum rental age is usually 21, but it depends on the supplier and country - some accept 18–19, while vans and larger or premium cars often need a driver of 23 or 25. The exact minimum, and any car-group limits, are shown for each pick-up location, so check them before you book.
The young-driver surcharge
Many suppliers add a per-day fee for drivers under about 25 (sometimes under 23). It is a supplier charge shown in the booking conditions, separate from the headline rental price - so factor it in when comparing options. You may also need to have held your licence for at least one or two years.
Why zero excess matters most when you’re young
On a standard rental, younger drivers face the same high excess as everyone - often €800–2,000 - plus the surcharge. An all-inclusive Cardamar booking, handled by Sunny Cars, includes comprehensive cover with zero excess, so a minor scrape never turns into a large bill. For a young driver, that certainty is worth more than a slightly cheaper basic rate that exposes you to the full excess.
Young driver car rental - FAQ
What is the minimum age to rent a car?
It is usually 21, though it varies by supplier and country - some accept 18–19, and certain car groups (vans, larger or premium cars) require 23 or 25. The minimum age and any conditions are shown for each pick-up location.
What is a young-driver surcharge?
A per-day fee that many suppliers add for drivers under about 25 (sometimes under 23). It is set by the supplier and shown in the booking conditions. Budget for it separately from the rental price.
How long must I have held my licence?
Often at least one year, sometimes two. If you passed your test recently, check the minimum licence-held period for your pick-up location before booking.
Is zero-excess cover worth it for a young driver?
Especially so. Younger drivers face higher excess and surcharges on standard rentals, so all-inclusive cover with zero excess removes the largest financial risk if anything goes wrong.
Can I add a younger additional driver?
Yes, but a young additional driver may also trigger the young-driver fee. Add all drivers when booking so the price and conditions are confirmed in advance.