Which Rental Car Companies Allow Spouse To Drive Free?
Article March 31, 2026 6 mins read

Which Rental Car Companies Allow Spouse To Drive Free?

Howard Page
Howard Page
Author

Most car rental companies in the United States allow adding an extra driver. Furthermore, you can add your spouse for free with Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and more. For others, you will need to pay a fee of USD 10 to USD 20 per day.

You can also have the cheapest additional driver fee car rental options by using AAA and loyalty program memberships. Besides, contact your preferred rental agency to know if they offer adding a driver for free or at the lowest rates.

Which Rental Car Companies Allow Spouses to be Added?

Many rental car companies allow spouses to drive for free. Some of these names include the following:

  • Avis

  • Hertz

  • Enterprise

  • Alamo

  • Thrifty

  • Budget

  • Hola

  • Advantage

  • Fox

  • SIXT

How Much Do Rental Companies Charge for Additional Drivers?

Adding a spouse as a driver is free, but you will need to pay a fee for others. The additional driver car rental fee is tabulated here:

Car Rental Company

Estimated Fees Per Day

Budget

USD 13

Dollar

USD 10 to USD 15

Alamo

USD 10 to USD 15

Hertz

USD 13.50

Avis

USD 10 to USD 15

SIXT

USD 12 to USD 15

Enterprise

USD 15

Note: This fee is approximated and may vary by company, vehicle type, location, and demand.

What are the Key Rules for Adding a Driver to Your Car Rentals?

Many car rental options with additional driver facilities are available, but company-to-company rules vary. However, some common ones are listed here:

  • The domestic partner or the legal spouse should have a valid driving license without DUI convictions.

  • For a spouse, you may need to submit the marriage certificate for car rentals in California and other regions.

  • Being married or having a valid driving license does not allow that person to drive.

  • You will need to inform the car rental company to add drivers officially to the rental contract.

  • This is mandatory to keep rental car insurance coverage, i.e., Collision Damage Waiver, valid.

  • For corporate rentals (if available), rules for adding a driver will vary.

  • Loyalty programs, such as Avis Preferred and Enterprise Plus, allow free addition of a spouse as a member benefit.

Tip: Always confirm with the concerned rental company before booking to know the daily fee for additional drivers. Also, check if they offer this facility for free or not.

How to Add a Driver to Car Rentals?

Adding a spouse and others to your car rental is easy and quick. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Primary renter and spouse/legal/domestic partner should be present during pickup to sign agreements.

  • Everyone should carry a driver's license, photo ID, and other relevant documents.

  • While adding a spouse, bring the copy or original marriage certificate.

  • Adding a spouse is free, but a fee will be levied for others.

  • The age should be 25 years old, or the young renter fee will also be added.

  • Before signing the contract, make sure it has the additional driver’s name on it.

  • State-specific policies may vary. So, go through everything to avoid penalties and extra fees.

Closure,

Never let your spouse or legal partner drive the rental car without being legally authorized by the rental company. Along with this, you must also check the additional driver fee for a car rental, as only the spouse is allowed to add and drive for free. Lastly, inquire about other aspects to have a smooth driving experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do all car rentals come with an additional driver option?

Almost every car rental agency in the United States offers this facility at no to a minimal fee.

Can my legal spouse be added to drive rental cars without a fee?

Legal partners or spouses are accepted as additional drivers to drive the rental car, but you will need to notify the rental agency.

Which rental car companies allow spouses to drive free?

Many names are on the list, some prominent ones include Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and more.

What is the average fee for adding a driver?

Even though fees vary, on average, you will need to pay USD 10 per day.

What is required for adding a spouse as a driver to the rental car?

They must own a valid and active driving license, must be at least 25 years of age (other young renter fees will be applied), and have a marriage certificate.

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.