Can I Rent A Car For Someone Else?
Article February 20, 2026 5 mins read

Can I Rent A Car For Someone Else?

Howard Page
Howard Page
Author

In general, companies do not allow people to rent a car for someone else in their name. This is because the rental agencies often require a valid license of the primary driver at the time of booking. Furthermore, the primary driver’s credit card is needed for security deposits.


However, it is possible to add a driver while reserving a rental car, as some car rental companies may offer free addition of the legal spouse. However, go through the rules and other relevant aspects to make this process easy.

Do All Companies Not Allow Car Rental Bookings for Others?

Every agency is different, and so is the policy when it comes to booking a rental car for someone else. It is recommended to go through the policies carefully to avoid last-minute hassles.

  • Enterprise: This company does not allow you to reserve a rental car for someone else. Instead, a rental agreement can be signed to add a driver.

  • Hertz: It has separate rental agreement rules. Although one cannot book a rental car for someone else, it is possible to add a driver.

  • Avis: You cannot reserve a car from this agency for others. Nevertheless, additional drivers can be added. Before going forward, check the applicable fees and documents required.

  • National: Although it does not offer the facility to rent a car for someone else using your own documents, you can definitely check the ‘reserve for someone else’ or additional driver options.

Note: Other prominent service providers also have different rules for adding drivers to rental cars in New York. So, check with them before or while renting a car.

How to Rent a Car for Someone Else?

To book a car rental for someone else, there are a few rules that one will need to keep in mind. As per the additional driver policy, the following should be understood:

  • Make That Person the Primary Driver: This is the most straightforward method to book a rental car for someone else. Use their credit card and other details to make them the primary driver.

  • Add Them as Additional Drivers: Fill out an additional form at the time of pick-up or beforehand to add more drivers to the booking.

  • Opt for a Specialized Company: Some car rental companies, specifically local ones, may help people rent a car for someone else. But it is suggested to go through the policy before booking.

  • Arrange Documents: Make sure the primary driver has the necessary documents, such as a valid driving license, credit cards or debit card, and others.

Remember: When booking car rentals for someone else (if the company allows), you will be responsible for all accidents and damages.

Conclusion

Since you cannot reserve a rental car for someone else, in general, using your name, credit card, and driver's license or driving permit for rental cars, check the alternatives to resolve the issue. For instance, add them as a driver or simply seek assistance from the respective car rental agency.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car for someone else?

No, rental car agencies do not allow this in general. However, you can check the additional driver policy to add others.

Is there any company that allows booking for someone else?

Most rental companies do not allow the reservation of rental cars using your name because a license and a credit card of the primary are mandatory.

What is ‘additional driver policy’?

This policy allows the primary driver to add authorized drivers to drive the car. But certain documents will be needed for this.

What is needed to add a driver while renting a car?

The secondary driver will need a valid driving license, a clean driving record with no DUIs, a credit card, and government-issued IDs

Do I need to pay for adding a driver, or is it free?

Generally, legal spouses or domestic partners can be added for free. To add others, you will need to pay a fee, which varies from one company to another and from state to state.

Howard Page

About Howard Page

Howard Page is a U.S.-based travel journalist with more than 10 years of experience. He has worked on guidebooks, documentaries, and reports across more than 20 countries. He’s driven by discovering new places. When he encounters something outside the everyday, his curiosity kicks in, his focus sharpens, and his mind feels more alert than usual.