How to Avoid Paying Extra for Second Drivers on Rental Cars

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Understand rental company policies regarding additional drivers.
• Book through third-party sites or directly with rental companies during promotions.
• Leverage credit card benefits for potential waivers or discounts.
• Consider off-airport rental locations and alternative rental options like Turo.
• Negotiate with the rental company and plan your driving schedule strategically.

Introduction

When renting a car, adding a second driver often comes with additional fees that can quickly inflate your budget. However, with the right strategies, you can avoid these extra costs and still enjoy the convenience of sharing the driving responsibilities. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and insider tricks to help you save money on second driver fees.

Why Add a Second Driver?

Traveling with a partner, friend, or family member often makes it necessary to share driving duties. A second driver can provide relief on long journeys or allow you to switch roles in unfamiliar driving conditions. However, rental companies charge extra for this convenience, which can add up.

The Hidden Costs of Second Drivers

Many travelers underestimate how much adding a second driver can cost. Rental companies typically charge a daily fee, which can range from $10 to $30 per day. Over a week-long rental, this could mean an additional $70 to $210. Fortunately, there are ways to bypass these fees.

Understand the Rental Company Policies

Before booking your rental car, it’s crucial to understand the policies of different rental companies regarding additional drivers. Some companies are more lenient than others, and knowing their rules can help you make informed decisions.

Research Rental Company Policies

Start by researching the policies of major rental companies such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis. Some companies offer free second driver options for spouses or domestic partners, while others charge a flat fee. Knowing these details can help you choose the best provider for your needs.

Club Memberships and Discounts

If you’re a member of a loyalty program or a club like AAA, you may be eligible for discounts or waived fees for additional drivers. Always check for available perks before booking.

Book Through the Right Channels

Where and how you book your rental car can significantly impact the fees you incur. Certain booking methods and platforms offer advantages that can help you avoid extra charges for second drivers.

Use Third-Party Booking Sites

Platforms like Expedia, Kayak, or Rentalcars.com often negotiate deals with rental companies that include free second driver options. Always compare offers to find the most cost-effective solution.

Direct Booking with Rental Companies

Sometimes, booking directly through a rental company’s website can yield better deals, especially during promotions or sales. Look for special offers that include free additional drivers.

Leverage Credit Card Benefits

Many credit cards offer rental car insurance and other perks that can help you save money. Some even include free additional driver benefits as part of their rewards programs.

Check Your Credit Card Perks

Review the benefits of your credit card to see if it includes free additional driver options. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or American Express Platinum often provide such advantages.

Use Credit Card Insurance

If your credit card offers rental car insurance, you may be able to decline the rental company’s insurance, which can reduce overall costs. This can indirectly help you save on second driver fees.

Choose the Right Rental Location

Where you pick up your rental car can also influence the fees you pay. Some locations are more lenient with additional driver policies, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Airport vs. Off-Airport Locations

Airport rental locations often have stricter policies and higher fees. Consider renting from an off-airport location, where fees for additional drivers may be lower or waived.

International vs. Domestic Rentals

If you’re renting a car abroad, policies may differ. In some countries, additional driver fees are less common or even non-existent. Research the local policies before booking.

Negotiate with the Rental Company

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the rental company. Sometimes, simply asking for a waiver or discount can yield positive results.

Ask for a Waiver

When picking up your rental car, politely ask if the additional driver fee can be waived. If you’re a loyal customer or renting for an extended period, the company may be willing to accommodate your request.

Bundle Services

If you’re purchasing additional services like GPS or insurance, ask if the rental company can bundle these with a free additional driver. This can sometimes lead to savings.

Consider Alternative Rental Options

Traditional rental companies aren’t your only option. Peer-to-peer car rental platforms and other alternatives may offer more flexibility with additional driver policies.

Peer-to-Peer Car Rentals

Platforms like Turo allow you to rent cars directly from individuals. These rentals often have more flexible policies regarding additional drivers, and fees may be lower or negotiable.

Car Sharing Services

Services like Zipcar or Car2Go may include multiple drivers in their standard rates. These options are particularly useful for short-term rentals in urban areas.

Plan Your Driving Schedule

If adding a second driver isn’t absolutely necessary, consider planning your driving schedule to minimize the need for an additional driver. This can help you avoid extra fees altogether.

Share Driving Responsibilities Strategically

If you’re traveling with a group, plan your driving shifts so that only one person drives at a time. This can eliminate the need for a second driver on the rental agreement.

Limit Long Drives

If possible, plan your itinerary to minimize long drives. This reduces fatigue and the need for a second driver.

Read the Fine Print

Before signing your rental agreement, carefully read the terms and conditions. This can help you avoid unexpected fees and ensure you’re not overpaying for additional drivers.

Check for Hidden Fees

Some rental companies may include hidden fees for additional drivers in the fine print. Make sure you understand all charges before finalizing your rental.

Verify Driver Eligibility

Ensure that the second driver meets all eligibility requirements, such as age and license validity. Non-compliance can result in additional fees or even the cancellation of your rental agreement.

Use Corporate or Group Discounts

If you’re traveling for business or as part of a group, you may be eligible for corporate or group discounts that include free additional drivers.

Corporate Rental Programs

Many rental companies offer corporate programs that include perks like free additional drivers. Check with your employer to see if you qualify.

Group Travel Discounts

If you’re traveling with a large group, inquire about group discounts. These may include waived fees for additional drivers.

Opt for Longer Rental Periods

Renting a car for an extended period can sometimes result in waived fees for additional drivers. This is particularly true for weekly or monthly rentals.

Weekly vs. Daily Rentals

If your trip spans several days, consider renting the car for a full week. Many rental companies offer better rates and may waive additional driver fees for longer rentals.

Monthly Rental Discounts

For extended trips, monthly rentals often come with significant discounts and perks, including free additional drivers. This can be a cost-effective option for long-term travelers.

Conclusion

Adding a second driver to your rental car doesn’t have to break the bank. By understanding rental company policies, leveraging discounts, and exploring alternative options, you can avoid paying extra fees and enjoy a stress-free driving experience. Plan ahead, do your research, and don’t hesitate to negotiate to get the best deal possible.

Final Tips

Always compare multiple rental companies and booking platforms to find the best deal. Don’t forget to check for hidden fees and read the fine print before signing your rental agreement.

Stay Informed

Rental policies and discounts can change frequently. Stay informed about the latest offers and trends to ensure you’re always getting the best value for your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Can a spouse drive a rental car for free?

  A: Some rental companies offer free second driver options for spouses or domestic partners. Check the specific policies of the rental company.

• Q: What credit cards offer free additional driver benefits?

  A: Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and American Express Platinum often provide such advantages.

• Q: Is it cheaper to rent a car off-airport?

  A: Yes, off-airport locations often have lower fees for additional drivers and other services.

• Q: Can I negotiate the additional driver fee?

  A: Yes, politely ask if the fee can be waived, especially if you’re a loyal customer or renting for an extended period.