What You Need to Rent a Car in the US: Documents Checklist

Showing up at the counter missing one document can derail your whole trip. Here is a clean checklist of what US rental companies expect in 2026, for both domestic renters and international visitors.

The essentials

• A valid driver's license. It must be current and, at many locations, held for at least one year. Bring the physical card — a photo on your phone is usually not accepted.
• A credit card in the renter's name. This is used for the security hold. Many locations do not accept debit cards, especially for younger renters or premium vehicles. A debit card also typically disqualifies credit-card damage coverage.
• You must meet the minimum age — usually 20 or 21 (18 in New York and Michigan), with an under-25 surcharge on top.

For international visitors

• Your home-country license is generally accepted for short visits if it is in English.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended — and sometimes required — if your license is not in English. Get it in your home country before you travel.
• Your passport may be requested as a second form of ID.
• Check insurance carefully. Foreign auto policies and some travel cards exclude US rentals, so confirm coverage or budget for the counter's CDW and liability.

Smart things to bring even if not required

• Your reservation confirmation (printed or on your phone).
• Proof of insurance if you are declining the counter waiver.
• Any membership or discount that waives fees (auto club, military ID, corporate code).
• A second payment card as a backup for the hold.

About the security hold

The company places a temporary authorization hold on your card — often the rental cost plus a cushion of $200–$500. It is not a charge, but it reduces your available credit until a few days after return. Make sure your card has room for it.

Quick pre-counter checklist

1. Physical driver's license (and IDP if needed) ✔
2. Credit card in the renter's name ✔
3. Reservation confirmation ✔
4. Insurance decision made in advance ✔
5. Enough available credit for the hold ✔

Requirements vary by company, state and vehicle. Confirm your specific location's license, age and payment rules before you travel — especially as an international visitor.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to rent a car in the US?

A valid driver's license, a credit card in the renter's name, and you must meet the minimum age (usually 20–21). Bring your reservation and insurance details too.

Can I rent a car with a debit card?

Sometimes, but many locations restrict debit cards, especially for younger renters or premium vehicles — and a debit card usually disqualifies credit-card damage coverage.

Do foreign visitors need an International Driving Permit?

If your license is not in English, an IDP is recommended and sometimes required. Carry your passport as secondary ID and check that your insurance covers US rentals.

What is the security hold?

A temporary authorization on your card — often the rental cost plus $200–$500 — that reduces your available credit until a few days after return.

Related guides

• Renting a Car Under 25: Fees, Rules, and How to Pay Less
• Do You Need Rental Car Insurance? CDW vs. Credit Card Coverage
• The Best Time to Book a Rental Car for the Lowest Price

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