Hiring a car when you’re under 25 in the UK can be complicated. Let’s look at the minimum age to hire a car, typical under‑25 car hire fees and how to save.
Good to know:
What is the minimum age to hire a car in the UK?
In the UK, most companies set their minimum age to hire a car at 21, though many only allow standard categories (economy, compact) until you reach 23 or older.
Some firms treat drivers under 25 as “young drivers” and restrict luxury, large or premium vehicles. Here are some policies of the larger care firms:
Avis UK states that a young driver surcharge will be charged when hiring under 25.
Budget UK’s young driver surcharge starts at £32.50 per day (including VAT), capped at 10 days.
Leasys UK estimates the surcharge for young drivers in the UK is circa £35 per day, depending on the provider.
Another catch: You’ll often be required to have held a full driving licence for at least one year. Some companies might impose stricter tenure for certain vehicle categories.
In short: If you're under 25, the options are more limited and you'll likely face extra fees and restrictions—yes, even when you meet the age minimum.
Learn more about the fees, charges and payment options for hiring cars in our guide.
How much is the under‑25 car hire surcharge?
The “young driver surcharge” is a daily fee added to your hire cost. In the UK, expect typical surcharges from £30 to £40 per day (again, depending on company, car group and location).
These charges vary widely but are still a bit dear, all the same. For premium or airport locations, surcharges may be higher or capped differently.And because the surcharge can dramatically impact cost, it’s crucial to compare total prices, not just the base hire rate.
Can you hire a car under 25 without paying extra?
Occasionally. Some firms or membership programmes may waive or reduce the surcharge under specific conditions:
Student discounts: For example, Sixt UK offers up to 15% off via student accounts, though the surcharge may still apply.
Promotions & special codes: Some local or regional firms occasionally run offers to reduce young driver fees, especially in low-demand seasons.
Group hire allocation: If a higher-age driver in your group holds the main driver role (if allowed), you may avoid some surcharges.
Ask directly: Because policies vary by branch, it’s worth asking the hire desk if a waiver or reduction is possible.
Note: These waivers are rare and usually only partial.
Why do companies charge under‑25 fees?
It comes down to insurance and risk. Insurance claims statistics show that younger drivers have a higher likelihood of accidents, so hire companies add surcharges to young drivers to offset that risk.
Younger drivers are also often limited to smaller, lower-risk categories (economy, city cars). Premium, sports or luxury vehicles are typically restricted until you’re 25 or older.
How to reduce or avoid the surcharge
Even if you don’t qualify for a waiver, you can use strategies to lower the cost:
Use non-airport pick-up locations: airport locations often carry premium surcharges.
Hire smaller cars: compact or economy group cars often carry the lowest restrictions.
Book with free cancellation: reserve early to lock a rate, then recheck prices closer to your date.
Set alerts: Skyscanner will notify you if rates drop.
Check credit cards/insurance cover: some credit cards or policies may cover excess or reduce costs.
Student or membership deals: student programmes can help offset surcharges.
What to check before you hire
Before you confirm a booking under 25, scan these policy details:
Insurance coverage: Are you forced to accept more coverage or a higher excess?
Licence tenure: Did you hold your licence long enough?
Mileage and fuel policy: Some surcharges relate to heavy use or going above mileage caps.
Vehicle restrictions: Double-check that premium or large models are allowed for young drivers.
Extra driver & cancellation rules: See how fees or conditions apply if someone else drives or you cancel.
Reading these terms carefully before you book can prevent nasty surprises at the desk.
Some final guidance
Can you hire a car under 25 in the UK? Yes. Is it more complex? Definitely. The trick is knowing where the extra fees hide—and how to reduce them.
Younger drivers now have more options, especially with compact cars and regional firms. Planning ahead, comparing total costs (not just base rates), and using tools like Skyscanner to see all your options side by side can make a big difference. Choose wisely, and you’ll trade stress for smart savings.
