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2 June 2026 · SunnVio

Renting a car under 25: how the young-driver surcharge works

Between 18 and 25 and want to rent a car on holiday? It's possible — but rental companies apply age limits and a young driver fee. Here is how it works, and how not to overpay.

From what age can you rent a car?

Most rental companies in Europe rent from age 21; with SunnVio you can book from 21 up to 99. Nearly all companies also require you to have held your licence for at least 2 years. 21 but freshly licensed? Then you usually cannot rent yet — not even with a fee.

What is the young driver fee?

For drivers aged 21 to 25, companies charge a young driver fee, often around €10 per day (varies by company and country). Statistically younger drivers cause more damage; the fee covers that risk. Over two weeks that is roughly €140 extra — something you want to know upfront, not discover at the desk.

How to avoid surprises

• Enter your age honestly when booking. Our request form asks for it as standard; the fee is then already included in your quote. Hide your age and you pay the fee at the desk anyway — at the company's rate.
• Mind category restrictions. Young drivers often cannot rent luxury cars, SUVs or vans. A small or compact class is nearly always available — and the best value anyway.
• Compare the total price, not the daily rate. The fee differs per company. Sometimes a slightly higher rental price with a lower fee is cheaper overall. That comparison is exactly what we do for you.
• Remember the credit card. Young renters too need a credit card in their own name for the deposit. Arrange it well before departure.

Full cover, also under 25

Good news: the fee says nothing about your cover. As a young driver you are fully insured with SunnVio and the excess is completely bought off — exactly the same protection as any other driver.

Adding a second (young) driver?

Travelling with friends and want to share the driving? A second driver usually costs around €40 per rental, plus the young driver fee if that driver is under 26 as well. Only registered drivers are insured — never let an unregistered friend drive, as that voids the cover entirely.

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent a car at 18, 19 or 20?

With most European rental companies no; the minimum is usually 21 plus 2 years of licence. With SunnVio you rent from 21.

How high is the young driver fee exactly?

Usually around €10 per day for drivers aged 21 to 25, depending on company and country. Your SunnVio quote always states the fee upfront — never a surprise at the desk.

Do young drivers face a higher excess?

With some companies yes, but not when booking through SunnVio: our excess buy-off applies in full at every age.