How to rent a car in Denver under 25

Are you interested in a Denver car rental, but under 25 years old? If you’re reading this, you’re likely already aware that, typically, you can still rent a car, but most rental agencies add extra hurdles for young drivers. A daily surcharge is common, but sometimes there are additional restrictions you’ll want to look out for, too. Here are three things you need to know if you want a car rental under 25 years old in Denver.

3 things to know about Denver car rental under 25

The extra hurdles and fees to get a car rental when you’re under 25 can be annoying. But if you know what to look out for, then the process can be smoother and less stressful. Here are three important details to check for when you start looking to rent a car in Denver.

1. You’ll likely encounter extra fees

Most car rental companies charge an extra fee if you’re under 25 years old. Typically called a “young driver fee,” it’s often charged on a daily basis. Depending on the company, rental location and your exact age, you could end up paying an additional $19-$84 each day of your trip. On a three-day weekend rental, that could add as much as $252 to your total cost. 

In some cases, you may not be able to rent a car at all if you’re too young. Start by researching requirements on how old you have to be to rent a car in Colorado. Then, check with the specific rental car company for its minimum age requirement. It’s often 21 years old, but some rent to drivers as young as 18. That’s why it’s not a good idea to spontaneously show up at a car rental counter when you’re under 25 and need a reservation on the fly. Make a plan in advance to ensure you can both qualify to rent a car and afford it with any potential additional fees as well.

2. There may be car class restrictions

Another consideration for your under-25 car rental in Denver is the type of car you need. When you go to make your reservation, you may be limited to certain car classes. Any type of luxury vehicle or specialty class, for example, is likely to be off limits. You may also encounter issues if you’re looking for something sporty or recreational that can get you to your favorite mountain hikes. Find out if there are car class restrictions based on your age so you can select the right type of vehicle from those that are available to you, such as economy or full-size.

3. Be prepared with the right documents

Like a car renter of any age, you’ll need a few key documents to solidify your reservation: a valid driver’s license, a credit card and personal auto insurance, if you have it. Most traditional rental car companies require a credit card to secure the reservation, even if you have enough cash in your checking account that’s attached to a debit card. 

If you have a personal auto insurance policy, contact the company to find out if your coverage extends to rentals. The agent at the rental car counter might try to upsell additional coverage that you may not need. If you don’t have a personal policy, your credit card’s benefits might extend rental insurance to you if you book and pay with that specific credit card. Check the fine print or give them a call to understand what is and isn’t covered. It might be in your best interest to opt for the coverage offered by the rental agency, but do some research first so you go in informed. You can save a lot of money by declining insurance that you don’t need, especially if you’re already paying a daily young driver surcharge.

Hit the road with Avail

As long as you’re 21 or older and meet Avail’s borrower requirements, you can rent a car at any of our neighborhood locations around Denver. And if you’re coming with a friend or partner, you can add a second driver for free. If you think that’s convenient, then you’ll love our self-service lots. After you book your car online, just head to the lot, grab the key from the on-site key box and hit the road. Returning the car is just as easy. Make your trip to Denver a smooth — and affordable — one by booking with Avail.