Tips for renting a car with an additional driver

When renting a car, follow these tips to make sure you register an additional driver at the best rate you can, with the flexibility you need.

The fun of the open road is greatly reduced when you’re exhausted from doing all the driving. Adding an additional driver to your car rental can help you share driving duties, and also give you some time to enjoy the scenery. Here are some tips for renting a car with an additional driver, to make sure you get the best opportunity you can.

It probably goes without saying, but you’ll want to make sure you know the person you’re adding to the car rental contract as an additional driver. Because you’ll both be liable should anything happen, it’s important to make your driving partner someone you trust to reduce the chance of mishaps.

Most rental outlets have regulations about who can rent a car, and these extend to the additional driver as well. For the most part, these are related to driving record and trying to ensure that anyone who gets behind the wheel is a responsible driver.

Your additional driver will:

• Need a valid driver’s licence
• Have a driving record clean of a DUI, DWI or reckless driving charges for at least 36 months
• Have fewer than three accidents in the last 36 months
• Not own a stolen vehicle , or one that was used in a crime

Each rental outlet will have specific information that they require, so be sure to ask before vetting your potential additional driver.

Different outlets have different pricing structures for additional drivers, so remember to ask the rental agency for specific information as it relates to your situation, to make sure you get the best deal you possibly can.

Consider this a basic guideline:

• Additional drivers are free if they’re co-workers and the car rental is paid for by your company
• Your spouse or domestic partner is usually free
• An additional driver who assists you if you have a disability is usually free
• Promotional offers can also reduce or remove additional driver charges

In most other cases there is a fee for additional drivers, but it can be quite nominal. As well, it changes from company to company and can vary in each situation. Just make sure you ask about yours!

Finally, there are some car rental agencies that allow you to have as many additional drivers as you have seats in the car. This can be a great option if you’re taking a road trip with friends, are renting a heavier vehicle for moving purposes, or are taking a car out to the cottage and plan for trips to town for supplies. This can be a great option if you want flexibility in your travel plans.

Getting an additional driver when you’re renting a car used to be a complicated and expensive venture. Now there are a more options available to renters. Follow these tips for renting a car with an additional driver and you’ll be on your way to making sure you get the trip you want, with the flexibility you require.