You generally need to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Illinois, although the minimum age varies by rental company and location. Some companies offer exceptions for younger drivers. For example, Hertz generally allows drivers aged 20 and older to rent vehicles at most U.S. locations. However, being eligible to rent a car does not necessarily mean you can access every vehicle category or avoid additional fees.
Drivers under 25 face different rental conditions than older customers. Many car rental companies charge a young driver surcharge, restrict access to certain vehicles, or require additional documentation. These policies can significantly affect the total cost of renting a car, especially for drivers aged 18–20 and 21–24.
Understanding Illinois car rental age requirements before making a reservation helps you avoid unexpected charges and booking restrictions. This guide explains the minimum rental age in Illinois, compares age policies at major rental companies, and covers young driver fees, license requirements, insurance, and vehicle restrictions. Whether you are 18, 21, or approaching 25, you will learn what to check before booking a rental car in Illinois.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Illinois?
You generally need to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Illinois, although the minimum rental age depends on the company’s policies and pickup location. Most major rental companies, including Enterprise, Avis, Alamo, and SIXT, set 21 as their standard minimum age for regular rentals. Hertz is an exception because it generally accepts renters aged 20 and older at most U.S. locations.
Drivers aged 21–24 can rent vehicles from eligible companies, but they often pay an additional young driver surcharge. This fee is separate from the standard daily rental rate and increases the total booking cost. Rental companies may also restrict younger customers from renting luxury cars, premium SUVs, and specialty vehicles. Drivers aged 25 and older generally have access to more vehicle categories and face fewer age-related restrictions.
The minimum rental age is a company policy rather than a universal statewide requirement. Illinois law establishes requirements for operating a motor vehicle and holding a valid driver’s license, while rental businesses determine the minimum age they accept for their vehicles. Therefore, someone who legally holds an Illinois driver’s license at 18 does not automatically qualify to rent a car from a commercial rental company.
Before making a reservation, check the minimum age, young driver fees, and vehicle restrictions at the exact pickup location. Policies can differ between airport branches and neighborhood rental offices, even when they belong to the same rental brand.
Can You Rent a Car in Illinois at 18?
Most 18-year-olds cannot rent a car through standard personal rental programs in Illinois because major rental companies set their minimum age above 18. Enterprise, Avis, Alamo, and SIXT generally require renters to be at least 21, while Hertz accepts drivers from age 20 at most U.S. locations, including Illinois. Therefore, an 18-year-old with a valid driver’s license will generally need to wait until reaching the rental company’s minimum age before booking a standard vehicle.
However, certain exceptions exist for specific rental arrangements. For example, Alamo allows eligible U.S. military personnel and government employees aged 18 or older to rent vehicles for authorized government travel without the standard youthful surcharge. Renters must provide official travel orders and satisfy the applicable rental conditions. This exception does not mean that all 18-year-old customers qualify for personal rentals.
Illinois House Bill 3351, known as the proposed Rental Age Protection Act, also addressed rental access for individuals aged 18 and older. However, the bill was re-referred to the House Rules Committee on April 17, 2026, and should not be treated as an enacted statewide rental requirement.
If you are 18 and need transportation in Illinois, check alternative options such as rideshare services, public transportation, or rental arrangements specifically available through an eligible government or business program.
Can You Rent a Car in Illinois Under 21?
Drivers under 21 face stricter car rental requirements in Illinois because most major rental companies set 21 as their minimum age for standard reservations. However, some rental companies accept drivers aged 20, giving eligible young adults an opportunity to rent a vehicle before turning 21. Hertz is one example, as its general U.S. policy allows rentals from age 20 at most locations.
For drivers aged 18–19, standard personal rental options are significantly more limited. Most major providers do not accept reservations from this age group unless the renter qualifies for a specific exception, such as an eligible government or military rental program. A valid driver’s license alone does not override a rental company’s minimum age policy.
Drivers aged 20 should compare rental providers before booking because age eligibility, additional fees, and vehicle restrictions vary. Even when a company accepts 20-year-old renters, it may limit the available vehicle categories or require specific payment methods. Some locations may also impose additional conditions based on the renter’s driving history and documentation.
Before reserving a vehicle, enter your actual age and pickup location on the rental company’s booking platform. Review the final rental agreement to confirm that the reservation includes the correct young driver surcharge and does not contain restrictions that could prevent vehicle collection.
What Is the Minimum Rental Age at Major Car Rental Companies in Illinois?
The minimum rental age at major car rental companies in Illinois is generally 21, although Hertz offers an exception for drivers aged 20 at most U.S. locations. Enterprise, Avis, Alamo, and SIXT generally follow a 21-year minimum for standard rentals. Drivers aged 21–24 may also face additional charges and vehicle restrictions, depending on the provider.
The following comparison summarizes the general age policies and young driver requirements of five major rental companies:
| Rental company | General minimum age | Young driver policy |
|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | 21 | Surcharge for ages 21–24 |
| Hertz | 20 | Young renter fee for drivers under 25 |
| Avis | 21 | Underage surcharge |
| Alamo | 21 | Young renter surcharge |
| SIXT | 21 | Young driver fee under 25 |
Enterprise Rent-A-Car generally requires renters to be at least 21 at its Illinois locations. Drivers aged 21–24 pay a young renter surcharge, which is listed as $25 per day at the Chicago O’Hare location. The company also applies restrictions to certain vehicle categories for younger renters.
Hertz generally accepts drivers aged 20 and older at most U.S. locations. Its young renter policy applies additional charges to eligible drivers under 25. The general published young renter fee is $19 per day, although the applicable amount should be confirmed during booking.
Avis generally requires renters to be at least 21 in most U.S. states. Drivers aged 21–24 may pay an additional underage surcharge and face restrictions on premium and specialty vehicles.
Alamo generally sets its minimum rental age at 21. Drivers aged 21–24 are subject to a youthful surcharge, while eligible government and military renters may qualify for specific exceptions.
SIXT generally requires renters at Illinois locations to be at least 21. Drivers under 25 may pay a young driver fee, and certain vehicle categories have higher minimum age requirements.
These policies are not interchangeable across every branch. Airport locations, neighborhood offices, vehicle categories, and special rental programs can have different conditions. Always check the specific Illinois pickup location and final booking price before making a reservation.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car Under 25 in Illinois?
Renting a car under 25 in Illinois generally costs more than renting the same vehicle at age 25 or older because rental companies often charge a young driver surcharge. This additional fee applies to eligible drivers aged 21–24 and is added to the standard daily rental rate. The surcharge varies by company and pickup location, so young renters should compare the total booking price rather than looking only at the advertised vehicle rate.
For example, Enterprise lists a $25 daily young renter surcharge at its Chicago O’Hare location, while Hertz publishes a general young renter fee of $19 per day at participating U.S. locations. These amounts illustrate how rental costs differ between providers. The actual fee may change according to the branch, rental agreement, and applicable taxes.
Consider a driver aged 22 renting a vehicle for five days at a base rate of $50 per day. If the rental company charges a $25 daily young driver surcharge, the cost calculation is:
| Cost component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base rental rate | $50/day |
| Young driver surcharge | $25/day |
| Rental duration | 5 days |
| Base rental cost | $250 |
| Young driver fees | $125 |
| Subtotal | $375 |
The $375 subtotal excludes taxes, insurance, optional protection products, and other applicable charges. This example demonstrates why young renters should review the complete price breakdown before confirming a reservation.
To reduce rental expenses, compare multiple providers, check eligible membership discounts, and review special rental programs. Some companies offer exceptions to young driver fees for qualifying government employees, military personnel, or corporate customers. However, these benefits require eligibility verification and do not automatically apply to every renter under 25.
What Are the Requirements for Renting a Car Under 25 in Illinois?
Drivers under 25 must meet the rental company’s minimum age requirements and provide the documents and payment methods required for the reservation. A valid driver’s license is the primary requirement, but rental providers may also request a credit card, additional identification, and a security deposit. These conditions help rental companies verify the driver’s identity, payment ability, and eligibility before releasing a vehicle.
A valid driver’s license must meet the rental company’s acceptance criteria. Most standard rental programs require a full driver’s license rather than a learner’s permit or temporary driving authorization that does not satisfy their policy. International visitors may need to present their original license and, depending on its language and the rental company’s requirements, an International Driving Permit.
Payment requirements differ between rental providers and locations. Credit cards are widely accepted for vehicle reservations and security deposits, while debit card acceptance may involve additional conditions. Some airport branches require proof of a return flight or additional identification when customers pay with debit cards. Young renters should confirm these conditions before arriving because an accepted reservation does not guarantee that every payment method will be approved at the counter.
Driving experience and vehicle eligibility are additional considerations for younger customers. Certain companies or vehicle categories may impose requirements beyond the standard minimum age. Luxury cars, premium SUVs, and specialty vehicles can have higher age thresholds. Renters should therefore check both the general rental policy and the specific vehicle restrictions.
Finally, review the rental agreement for the young driver surcharge, deposit amount, insurance options, mileage restrictions, and additional driver conditions. Preparing these details before pickup reduces the risk of unexpected costs or a rejected rental.
What Types of Rental Cars Can Drivers Under 25 Rent in Illinois?
Drivers under 25 can generally rent economy cars, compact cars, and standard sedans in Illinois when they meet the rental company’s minimum age requirements. However, vehicle eligibility depends on the rental provider and vehicle category, not just the renter’s age. Luxury vehicles, premium SUVs, sports cars, and specialty models often have higher minimum age requirements because rental companies apply stricter eligibility policies to more expensive vehicles.
Economy and compact cars are among the most accessible options for younger renters. These vehicles generally have lower rental rates and fewer age-related restrictions than premium models. Standard sedans and midsize cars may also be available to drivers aged 21–24, depending on the company’s fleet and location policies.
SUVs and minivans require additional verification. Some rental providers allow drivers under 25 to book standard SUVs, while others restrict larger or premium vehicle categories. These restrictions can affect customers who need additional passenger capacity or luggage space for family trips.
Luxury and specialty vehicles typically have stricter age requirements. Rental companies may require drivers to be at least 25 or older before allowing them to rent premium vehicles, sports cars, or high-value models. Some providers also restrict certain vehicle groups regardless of whether the renter agrees to pay an additional surcharge.
Before selecting a vehicle, enter your age and pickup location into the rental company’s booking system. Review the eligible vehicle categories and rental conditions rather than assuming that every vehicle displayed online is available to younger drivers.
Does Illinois Law Require Drivers to Be 25 to Rent a Car?
No. Illinois does not establish a universal statewide requirement that every car renter must be at least 25 years old. The minimum rental age is primarily determined by individual rental company policies, while state law establishes separate requirements for operating motor vehicles and holding a valid driver’s license.
Illinois Vehicle Code Section 6-305 addresses the responsibilities of rental companies concerning driver licensing and vehicle rental agreements. It should not be interpreted as a law requiring all renters to reach age 25. A person who legally holds a valid driver’s license may still be ineligible to rent a vehicle because the rental company applies a higher minimum age.
The distinction between legal driving eligibility and commercial rental eligibility is important. Illinois permits qualified young drivers to obtain driver’s licenses before age 21, but rental companies can establish additional contractual requirements for customers using their vehicles. For example, Enterprise, Avis, and Alamo generally require renters to be at least 21, while Hertz generally accepts eligible drivers from age 20 at most U.S. locations.
Illinois House Bill 3351, known as the proposed Rental Age Protection Act, also addressed rental access for younger adults. However, the bill was re-referred to the House Rules Committee on April 17, 2026. It should therefore be described as proposed legislation rather than an enacted statewide rental age law.
For renters, the practical rule is straightforward: check the rental company’s minimum age, location-specific conditions, and vehicle restrictions. Turning 25 is not a universal legal requirement for renting a car in Illinois, although it generally provides access to more rental options and fewer age-related restrictions.
Do You Need Rental Car Insurance to Rent a Car in Illinois Under 25?
Drivers under 25 must meet the same basic insurance requirements as other eligible renters in Illinois, but their rental costs may be higher because of young driver surcharges and vehicle restrictions. A young driver surcharge is not the same as rental car insurance. The surcharge compensates the rental company for accepting younger drivers, while insurance and protection products address financial risks associated with accidents, vehicle damage, and liability.
Rental companies offer several types of protection products. A Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) can reduce or waive the renter’s financial responsibility for damage to or theft of the rental vehicle, subject to the agreement’s exclusions and conditions. These products are generally optional unless a particular rental arrangement requires specific coverage.
Personal auto insurance may also extend to rental vehicles. Drivers should check their existing policy to determine whether it covers rental car damage, liability, and eligible drivers under 25. Coverage varies by insurer, policy type, vehicle category, and rental duration. A personal policy that covers an older driver’s rental does not automatically establish that every young driver is covered.
Credit card rental protection is another potential source of coverage. Some credit cards provide collision or theft protection when the cardholder pays for the rental using the eligible card. However, these benefits may exclude certain vehicle categories, rental periods, or drivers who do not satisfy the card’s conditions.
Before purchasing additional protection, compare the rental company’s coverage with your existing auto insurance and credit card benefits. Confirm that the policy covers the actual driver and vehicle. Drivers under 25 should also verify whether the rental company accepts their age for the selected vehicle category because insurance coverage does not override minimum rental age restrictions.
Read more: How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Car in Arizona?
How Can You Rent a Car in Illinois If You Are Under 25?
To rent a car in Illinois before turning 25, choose a rental company that accepts your age, verify the vehicle restrictions, and prepare the required documents and payment method. Drivers aged 21–24 generally have more options than those aged 18–20, but they should compare young driver surcharges before confirming a reservation.
Start by comparing the minimum rental age at companies such as Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and SIXT. Hertz generally accepts eligible drivers aged 20 and older at most U.S. locations, while the other providers generally require renters to be at least 21. Check the specific Illinois branch because individual locations and special rental programs may have different conditions.
Next, select a vehicle category that matches your age eligibility. Economy cars, compact cars, and standard sedans are generally more accessible to younger renters than luxury vehicles or specialty models. Enter your actual age and pickup location during the booking process to view eligible vehicles and applicable charges.
Compare the complete rental price before making a reservation. Include the base daily rate, young driver surcharge, taxes, insurance products, and potential additional driver fees. A company advertising a lower daily rental rate may become more expensive after its age-related charges are included.
Prepare your valid driver’s license, accepted payment card, and any additional identification required by the rental location. Review the security deposit policy and insurance conditions before pickup. Finally, inspect the vehicle for existing damage, document its condition, and review the rental agreement before signing.
Following these steps helps younger drivers avoid booking problems, understand their financial obligations, and select a rental vehicle that meets their needs in Illinois.
What Should You Check Before Booking a Rental Car in Illinois?
Before booking a rental car in Illinois, verify the minimum age requirement, young driver surcharge, vehicle eligibility, payment conditions, and insurance coverage. These five factors determine whether a rental company will approve your reservation and how much you will pay. Checking them in advance helps prevent unexpected charges, booking cancellations, and problems when collecting the vehicle.
1. Minimum rental age: Confirm that the rental company accepts your age at the exact pickup location. Most major providers in Illinois require renters to be at least 21, while Hertz generally accepts eligible drivers aged 20 and older at most U.S. locations. Do not assume that every branch follows identical conditions.
2. Young driver surcharge: Check whether the company charges an additional daily fee for drivers under 25. Compare this surcharge across rental providers and calculate the total cost for your entire rental period. A lower advertised daily rate does not necessarily mean a cheaper reservation.
3. Vehicle restrictions: Confirm that your age qualifies you for the selected vehicle category. Standard economy cars and sedans generally have fewer restrictions than luxury vehicles, premium SUVs, and specialty cars. Review the vehicle eligibility rules before paying for your reservation.
4. Payment and security deposit: Verify whether the pickup location accepts your credit or debit card and determine the required security deposit. Some branches impose additional identification or payment conditions, particularly for customers using debit cards.
5. Insurance and cancellation policy: Review available protection products, personal insurance coverage, and credit card rental benefits. Also, check the cancellation deadline, refund conditions, mileage limits, and additional driver fees before signing the rental agreement.
By confirming these five factors, younger drivers can make informed rental decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses. The most reliable approach is to compare the complete rental terms at several Illinois locations rather than choosing a provider based solely on its advertised daily rate.