If you want more than one person to be able to drive the rental car, know that there is an option to add an additional driver to your reservation. This service allows people other than the renter (main driver on the reservation) to also drive the vehicle. However, if the additional driver service is not selected, only the renter will be authorized to drive the vehicle.
Rental companies offer this option for an additional fee, which is set according to each company’s policies. It’s a practical solution for those who want to share driving responsibilities while ensuring safety and compliance with the rental agreement.
What you should know about the additional driver
When choosing this service, it’s important to know the following:
How to add the additional driver: if you choose this service, you can add it through the website when booking (if available) or directly at the rental counter when picking up the vehicle. The additional driver must be present and meet the rental requirements, except for the credit card.
You may also add more than one additional driver. A fee will be charged for each driver added to the contract.
Costs involved: To include an additional driver, rental companies usually charge a daily fee. The exact cost is determined at the rental desk and therefore cannot be confirmed in advance. However, if the service was already included in your reservation, it will appear on your confirmation voucher and does not need to be added again at the rental counter.
What the additional driver fee covers: When this service is added, the rental car insurance will also cover the additional driver. This means that if something happens while the additional driver is operating the vehicle, the insurance will cover the damages. If someone drives without being added as an additional driver, the rental company may charge the full damage costs to the primary renter.
If you opt for this service, remember that the additional driver must be present at the time of vehicle pickup, meeting the requirements set for the renter, except for the credit card.