My son and I are taking a long road trip this summer, and I'd like him to help me drive. He's 18 years old and a really good driver. As long as he's covered under my own personal automobile insurance, is it ok to let my 18 year old drive my rental car?
My Response:
When you go to pick up the vehicle, you will be asked by the car rental company to list all of your additional drivers. They will have to meet the minimum age requirements of the car rental company. For some car rental companies, all additional drivers must be 25 years of age or older, some companies do allow additional drivers between the ages of 21-24 as well.
As well as age requirements, there are also licensing requirements as well as credit card requirement for additional drivers as well. These requirements vary by company.
Unfortunately, your son's ability to drive the rental is not based on his coverage under your insurance policy, but by the requirements of the rental company. If you allow an unauthorized (and underaged driver) to drive the rental, you will be violating the terms of your rental agreement.