Age requirements for renting a car in Ontario
4 minute read Published on Aug 3, 2024 by BrokerLink Communications
Whether you’re visiting the province or need a car while waiting on repairs, renting a car can come in handy. However, you might wonder how old you have to be to rent a car in Ontario. Car rental companies have their own policies, but there are some general guidelines that everyone has to follow. If you require a rental car, follow these tips from BrokerLink, and you will have no trouble.
Minimum age to rent a car in Ontario
Let’s address the elephant in the room. How old do you have to be to rent a car in Ontario? To rent a car in Ontario, you must be at least 21 years old. However, there are conditions that come with renting a car when you’re under the age of 25, including the following:
- A young renter fee
- Limits on the type and size of vehicle that can be rented (e.g. no SUVs and minivans)
Requirements to rent a car
In addition to the restrictions on young renters, car rental companies have a few general rules. Anyone who’s renting a car in Ontario must meet the following requirements, including:
Valid driver’s licence
In order to rent a car in Ontario, you need a valid class “G” driver’s licence. It has to be valid for the rental period as well. You cannot rent a car if you have a learner’s permit (a G1 or G2 licence). However, you may be able to rent a car if you have a driver’s licence from another country or province.
Meet the age requirements
As mentioned earlier, the majority of car rental companies in Ontario only rent to those 21 years old or older. Even when you meet the minimum rental age requirement, you will have to pay a young renter fee if you are under the age of 25. This is usually outlined in the rental agreement and may restrict you from renting luxury cars, minivans and SUVs.
Clean driving record
Your car rental options may be limited if you don’t have a good driving record. Having years of safe driving experience will benefit you in the long run. The car rental company will often screen driving records before renting a car to someone.
Authorized driver
When renting a vehicle, the company may only allow one driver to operate the vehicle. However, this driver does not have to be present when renting the car. If you need to add additional drivers to the rental agreement, you will have to pay additional fees.
Car insurance
Did you know you need car insurance when renting a vehicle? It doesn’t matter if you rent luxury cars or regular ones, you will need it. Your rental company will ask you to sign a liability waiver to cover damages or if you are injured in a car accident. However, you can also use your own car insurance to provide coverage even if you don’t own the car. The other option is your credit card, which can sometimes provide coverage. Ask your providers before choosing this option. Always have travel insurance if you are travelling out of the country in your car.
Having a credit card
Most of the time, you will have to use a credit card to pay for a car rental in case the car gets damaged. It also allows the rental company to put a hold on your credit card for a certain amount of money while you are driving the rental car. Debit cards and cash are less commonly accepted forms of payment.
Always speak to your rental company before renting a vehicle. This will help you understand their coverage policies, additional fees, vehicle options, and contract details. Shop around at your rental location to compare your options.
Insurance required for a rental car
In Ontario and other parts of Canada, drivers must meet the minimum age to rent. Additionally, drivers need car insurance to rent a car. Even if you don’t have your insurance policy, which is common for those who have a licence without a car, you will need one to drive a rental car. You have three options to insure a rental car. Here are the requirements:
Rental company insurance
Car rental companies can provide car insurance for an additional fee. However, you have to sign a collision damage waiver beforehand. This will make the car rental company responsible for paying for the majority of the damage in the event of an accident. However, you should watch out for exclusions. Depending on where you rent a vehicle, this option is available at a daily rate.
Credit card
Sometimes, using your credit card can provide collision coverage for a rental car. In this case, you need to pay attention to the fine print. It may not cover everything, so it’s wise to speak to your credit card provider before choosing this option.
Personal auto insurance policy
The majority of car insurance companies in Ontario offer liability coverage for damaging a car you don’t own. This is called Legal Liability for Damage to Non-Owned Automobiles. It’s an endorsement added to your current policy that compensates you if you damage a rental car anywhere in Canada or the United States. The policy for Canadians renting cars in the United States is called S.E.F 27. If you have your own car insurance, comprehensive or collision insurance coverage may pay for your car rental costs. Ask your insurance provider about your options before renting a car.
No matter how you insure your rental, you should follow our safe driving tips. They will not only save you money on the costs of damage but also keep you safer on the road.
Contact BrokerLink for all your insurance needs!
Whether purchasing a new car or renting one, BrokerLink is here for all your insurance needs. We offer all types of mandatory car insurance in Ontario, including:
Now that you know the minimum rental age in Ontario, you have everything you need to rent a vehicle without worry. If you need car insurance for your current vehicle and find yourself renting cars often, contact us today.