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14 September 2026 · SunnVio

Additional Driver on a Rental Car: What You Need to Arrange

Traveling as a couple or family and want to take turns driving? Then adding an additional driver to your rental car is not an unnecessary luxury. Here's why this matters, what it involves, and how to arrange it properly.

Why register an additional driver?

When renting a car, only one driver is listed on the contract by default: the person who books and picks up the car. If you want to switch off driving with a partner, friend, or family member during the trip, that person must be officially registered as an additional driver. If you don't do this, that second person is effectively driving without valid coverage, with all the risks that entails in case of damage or an accident.

What does an additional driver cost?

Most rental companies charge a daily surcharge for an additional driver, although some providers sometimes offer this for free, for example for a partner or with certain rental packages. The exact terms and costs vary by rental company and country, so always check this in advance when booking rather than assuming it's included.

Requirements for an additional driver

An additional driver usually must meet the same requirements as the main driver: a valid driver's license, a minimum age, and often a minimum number of years of driving experience. For younger drivers, a young driver surcharge may also apply. Make sure everyone who will be driving has their driver's license (and, if necessary, an international driving permit) physically with them during the trip.

How do you add an additional driver?

You can usually register an additional driver online during the booking process, but in many cases this can also be done at the counter when picking up the car. Keep in mind that the additional driver must then be present in person with a valid driver's license and ID, as the rental company needs to verify and register these details directly.

What if you let an unregistered driver drive?

If someone who is not listed on the rental agreement drives the car and something happens, the insurance may refuse to cover the damage. In that case, you'll be responsible for the costs yourself, regardless of any additional insurance you've taken out. For most travelers, this risk simply isn't worth it, especially since adding an additional driver is relatively easy to arrange.

Watch out for family members and longer trips

With some rental companies, a spouse or cohabiting partner can be insured as a driver free of charge under certain conditions, but this is not a fixed rule and varies by provider and country. If you're planning a long road trip where switching drivers is beneficial for safety, it's wise to check this thoroughly in advance rather than finding out on the road that it hasn't been properly arranged.

Tips to avoid surprises

When booking, don't just compare the rental price, but also look at the terms and any costs for an additional driver, so you don't run into surprises when picking up the car. If in doubt, always contact the rental company or read the rental terms carefully, so that everyone who will be driving is actually allowed to do so.