Planning the perfect Hawaiian vacation involves turquoise waters, stunning hikes, and the freedom to explore the islands’ hidden gems. But for many younger travelers, one question creates a major roadblock: how old to rent a car in Hawaii? The conflicting information online about age limits, hidden fees, and company policies can turn excitement into confusion, leaving you wondering if you’ll be stuck relying on rideshares instead of cruising down the Kamehameha Highway.
Yes, you can rent a car at 18 in Hawaii, but it comes with conditions. Most major companies set their minimum age at 20 or 21 and will charge a significant daily “young driver surcharge” if you are under 25.
This comprehensive guide, updated for 2025, cuts through the noise. Leveraging a detailed analysis of rental company policies and state regulations, we’ll unpack the exact age requirements, the true cost of underage fees, and the proven strategies that can help you get behind the wheel without breaking your budget. This guide unpacks proven approaches and critical insights to help you effectively navigate renting a car in Hawaii.
Key Facts
- Legal vs. Company Age: While Hawaiian state law permits car rentals from age 18, the vast majority of major rental companies like Enterprise and Avis enforce their own minimum age policies, typically requiring renters to be 20 or 21 years old.
- The Under-25 Surcharge is Significant: Drivers under the age of 25 should expect a mandatory daily “Young Driver Surcharge” ranging from $25 to as high as $45, a fee that is added on top of the standard rental rate and can dramatically increase the total cost.
- A Fee-Free Alternative Exists: Data highlights Hui Car Share as a primary cost-saving option, as it does not charge any underage fees for drivers 18 and older, and the rental price includes both gas and insurance.
- Military & Government Personnel are Exempt: U.S. government employees and military personnel aged 18 and over are typically exempt from young renter fees when renting for authorized, official travel and can present their orders.
- Vehicle Options are Limited: Renters under 25 are almost universally restricted from renting certain vehicle classes, including luxury cars, premium SUVs, large passenger vans, and other specialty vehicles.
Hawaii Car Rental Age Requirements: The Definitive 2025 Guide
Figuring out the minimum age to rent a car in Hawaii can be tricky because there’s a difference between what the law allows and what rental companies actually do. While you might be legally old enough, company policies often add another layer of rules and fees.
Here’s the bottom line.
Yes, you can rent a car at 18 in Hawaii, but it comes with conditions. Most major companies set their minimum age at 20 or 21 and will charge a significant daily “young driver surcharge” if you are under 25.
Let’s break down the three key factors you need to understand:
- Legal Age vs. Company Policy: Hawaii state law says you can rent a car at 18. However, this just gives companies the option to rent to you. Most major national chains choose to set their own, higher minimum age of 20 or 21 to mitigate risk.
- The Under-25 Surcharge: If you are under 25, you will almost certainly pay an extra daily fee. This “Young Driver Surcharge” is a standard practice across the industry and is one of the biggest extra costs for young renters.
- Key Exceptions: There are ways around the high fees. Services like Hui Car Share and special exemptions for U.S. military personnel provide fantastic alternatives for younger drivers.
So, while you can legally rent a car at 18, what does it actually cost you? Let’s dive into the main expense you’ll face: the surcharge.
Understanding the “Young Driver Surcharge”: What to Expect
The Young Driver Surcharge is a mandatory daily fee for renters under 25, typically ranging from $25 to $45. Companies like Hertz and Alamo average around $25 per day, significantly increasing the total rental cost. This fee, also called an “Underage Fee,” is the rental company’s way of covering the statistically higher risk associated with younger, less experienced drivers.
It’s critical to remember this is an additional charge on top of your daily rental rate, taxes, and any insurance you purchase.
Expect to pay an extra $25 to $45 per day on top of your rental rate.
This fee can quickly add up. A $25 daily surcharge on a one-week rental means an extra $175 on your final bill. To give you a clearer picture, here’s how some of the major players stack up based on available data:
| Rental Company | Average Young Renter Fee |
|---|---|
| Hertz | Approx. $25 per day |
| Enterprise | Approx. $25 per day |
| Alamo | Approx. $25 per day |
Pro Tip: Remember, this daily fee can sometimes double the total cost of your rental. Always factor it into your budget!
Age & Fee Policies: A Comparison of Major Rental Companies in Hawaii
Major rental companies have different rules: Hertz’s minimum age is typically 20, while Enterprise and Avis require 21. All charge a daily fee and restrict young drivers from renting luxury cars, large SUVs, and specialty vehicles. Knowing the specific policies before you book can save you time and prevent surprises at the rental counter.
Hertz in Hawaii
Hertz is one of the more accommodating major companies for younger drivers, often allowing rentals to start at age 20. This can make them a go-to option for college students and other young adults visiting the islands.
- Minimum Age: 20 years old.
- Surcharge: Approx. $25 per day.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Economy to full-size cars are generally available; access to Dream Cars, Prestige, Adrenaline, and certain specialty vehicles is restricted.
Enterprise in Hawaii
Enterprise is another major player, but their policy in Hawaii is slightly stricter, requiring renters to be at least 21. However, they offer a good selection of standard vehicles for those who meet the age requirement.
- Minimum Age: 21 years old (for Hawaii).
- Surcharge: Approx. $25 per day.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Limited to economy, compact, intermediate, standard, full-size cars, cargo/minivans, pickup trucks, and compact/small/standard SUVs.
Avis in Hawaii
Avis follows the industry standard of requiring renters to be at least 21 years old. They also have some of the most specific restrictions on the types of vehicles that young drivers are not allowed to rent.
- Minimum Age: Typically 21 years old.
- Surcharge: Yes, a daily fee applies.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Excludes full-size SUVs, luxury vehicles, minivans, passenger vans, premium SUVs, and specialty cars.
How to Rent a Car in Hawaii Under 25 Without a Surcharge
Paying an extra $25 or more per day is a tough pill to swallow, especially on a vacation budget. The good news? There are proven ways to get around it.
Avoid underage fees by using services like Hui Car Share (for ages 18+) which has no young driver surcharge, or if you are U.S. military or government personnel (18+) renting for official travel.
Quick Fact: Using an alternative like Hui Car Share could save you over $175 on a week-long rental just by avoiding the average young driver fee! Let’s explore these game-changing options.
Alternative 1: Use Hui Car Share
Hui Car Share is a top choice for 18-24 year olds as it has no underage fees and includes gas and insurance; 18-year-olds must provide college enrollment verification. This Honolulu-based service operates with a simple, all-inclusive pricing model that makes it incredibly appealing for budget-conscious young travelers.
Here are the key benefits that make Hui a standout choice:
* No Underage Fees: You pay the same hourly or daily rate as any other driver, regardless of your age.
* Age 18+ Welcome: Drivers as young as 18 can rent, though they are required to provide verification of college enrollment.
* Gas & Insurance Included: The price you see is the price you pay. There’s no need to worry about filling up the tank before you return or debating costly insurance add-ons.
* Military Friendly: Hui also waives any potential fees for military members under 25, making it a great option for service members stationed in or visiting Hawaii.
Alternative 2: U.S. Military & Government Exemptions
Military and government employees 18+ can avoid underage fees from major rental companies when renting on official travel orders. This is a long-standing exception offered by companies like Enterprise, Avis, and others as a courtesy to service members.
To qualify for this exemption, you must meet specific criteria:
1. Eligibility: Must be U.S. military personnel or a government employee aged 18+.
2. Purpose: Rental must be for authorized, official government travel. Vacation or leisure travel does not qualify.
3. Proof: You must present your official orders at the time of rental. The rental agent will need to see this documentation to waive the fee.
Pro Tip: Always confirm this policy with the specific rental location when booking, even with official orders.
Essential Checklist for Young Renters in Hawaii
You’ve figured out the age requirements and how to handle the fees. Now what? Getting the keys requires having the right documents and understanding the process. Think of this checklist as your pre-flight inspection; getting it right on the ground ensures a smooth journey.
Prepare for your rental with a valid driver’s license, a credit card for the security deposit, and consider booking in advance. Also, check your personal auto or credit card insurance for rental coverage.
Here’s everything you need to have ready:
- Valid Driver’s License
- You must have a current, valid driver’s license with a photo. Learner’s permits are not accepted.
- For International Renters: If your license is not in English, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to accompany your original, valid license from your home country. You’ll likely need to show your passport as well.
- A Major Credit Card
- Virtually all rental companies require a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover) in the primary renter’s name.
- This is for the security deposit, which covers potential damages or incidental charges. The amount held can be several hundred dollars.
- Debit cards are rarely accepted for renters under 25, and prepaid cards are almost never allowed.
- Proof of Insurance
- The rental company will offer you insurance, like a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Before accepting, check if you’re already covered.
- Many personal auto insurance policies extend coverage to rental cars.
- Premium travel credit cards often include primary or secondary rental car insurance as a benefit. A quick call to your card issuer can clarify your coverage.
- Book Well in Advance
- Hawaii is a top travel destination, and rental cars, especially for specific classes, can sell out.
- Booking ahead not only secures a vehicle but often locks in a much better rate than you’d get as a walk-up customer.
To make your Hawaiian road trip even smoother, consider packing a few essentials. Having the right gear, like a reliable phone mount for navigation and a portable charger, can make a world of difference when exploring the islands.
FAQs About Renting a Car in Hawaii Under 25
Can an 18-year-old legally rent a car in Hawaii?
Yes, Hawaiian state law permits 18-year-olds to rent a car. However, most major rental agencies impose their own policies and will not rent to anyone under 20 or 21. For 18 and 19-year-olds, the most reliable and cost-effective option is a car-sharing service like Hui Car Share, which has no underage fees but requires college enrollment verification for 18-year-olds.
Can you rent a car at 19 or 20 in Hawaii?
At 19, your options are very similar to an 18-year-old, with Hui Car Share being the best choice. Once you turn 20, your options open up. Hertz, for example, typically rents to drivers aged 20 and over in Hawaii. You will still be required to pay the daily Young Driver Surcharge, which is approximately $25 per day.
Does Hertz charge an under 25 fee in Hawaii?
Yes. For renters between the ages of 20 and 24, Hertz charges a daily “Young Renter Fee.” This fee is consistently reported to be around $25 per day. This is in addition to the base rental rate and any other taxes or fees. The fee is designed to cover the higher statistical risk associated with younger drivers.
Are car rental age requirements different on Maui or Oahu?
No, the age requirements and policies for major rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis are generally consistent across all Hawaiian islands, including Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. A policy that applies at the Honolulu airport (HNL) on Oahu will almost always be the same at the Kahului airport (OGG) on Maui.
What is the cheapest way for someone under 25 to rent a car in Hawaii?
The cheapest way is to avoid the Young Driver Surcharge entirely. The top method is using Hui Car Share, as their rates are the same for all ages and include gas and insurance. The second method is to qualify for the U.S. military or government exemption if you are 18+ and traveling on official orders.
Can I use a debit card to rent a car if I’m under 25?
It is extremely difficult. The vast majority of major rental companies require a credit card in the primary renter’s name for the security deposit. Some locations may accept a debit card, but this usually comes with strict requirements like being 25 or older, providing proof of a round-trip airline ticket, and undergoing a credit check. For renters under 25, a credit card is essentially mandatory.
Are there vehicle restrictions for every driver under 25?
Yes, this is a universal policy. All major rental companies restrict young renters from accessing their high-end vehicle classes. This means you will not be able to rent luxury cars (like from the Hertz Dream Car Collection), premium or full-size SUVs, large passenger vans, or other specialty and performance vehicles. You will generally be limited to economy through full-size sedans and some smaller SUVs.
Final Summary: Key Takeaways for Young Drivers in Hawaii
Navigating the rules for how old to rent a car in Hawaii is straightforward once you understand the key principles. While the state law is permissive, company policies, surcharges, and vehicle restrictions are the real factors that will shape your experience. By planning ahead and choosing the right rental strategy, you can secure the freedom of a rental car for your island adventure.
The most critical thing to remember is that while most major rental companies require you to be 20-21 and will charge a hefty daily fee if you’re under 25, there are excellent ways to avoid these costs.
- Age is a Two-Part Question: Legally you can rent at 18, but practically, you need to be 20 or 21 for most major agencies.
- The Surcharge is Real and Costly: Budget for an extra $25-$45 per day if you’re under 25 and renting from a traditional company.
- Alternatives are Your Best Bet: Services like Hui Car Share are game-changers, eliminating underage fees and including extras like gas and insurance.
- Preparation is Everything: Arrive with the right documents—a valid license and a credit card in your name—to ensure a smooth pickup process.
Now that you have all the details for 2025, you can confidently budget and book the right vehicle for your Hawaiian adventure
Last update on 2025-10-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
