Yes, renting a car is a good option, but unexpected fees often increase the total cost. One common hidden charge is the fee for adding an additional driver, usually around $10–$15 per day.
Fortunately, several rental companies allow spouses, domestic partners, or members of specific programs to add an additional driver at no extra cost. So, in this article, we are going to know about:
- Which rental companies offer free additional drivers
- Who qualifies for the benefit
- How to save money using memberships and loyalty programs
- Practical tips before adding a second driver
Quick Comparison Table
| Car Rental Company | Who Qualifies for a Free Second Driver? | Availability | Usual Fee Without Benefit |
| Alamo | Spouse/domestic partner | Most U.S. locations | $10–15/day |
| National | Emerald Club members, spouse/domestic partner | U.S. locations | $10–15/day |
| Enterprise | Spouse/domestic partner | Most U.S. locations | $10–15/day |
| Hertz | AAA members, spouse/domestic partner | U.S. & Canada | $13.50/day |
| Avis | AAA members, spouse/domestic partner | U.S. & Canada | $13–15/day |
| Budget | AAA members, spouse/domestic partner | U.S. & Canada | $13/day |
| Thrifty | AAA members | U.S. locations | $12/day |
| Dollar | AAA members | U.S. locations | $12/day |
| Sixt | Loyalty members (Gold, Platinum, Diamond), corporate accounts | Select locations | $12–15/day |
| Costco Travel | Booking through Costco includes free second driver | Approved locations | Varies |
Best Car Rental Companies for a Free Additional Driver
Alamo:
At most U.S. rental locations, spouses or domestic partners can be added as a second driver for free. If you book through Costco Travel, you may also get a free second driver included. These customer-friendly policies make renting a car more convenient and affordable for couples and families.
National:
Emerald Club members get a free second driver, and joining the program doesn’t cost anything. Spouses and domestic partners always qualify as free additional drivers, making this a great option for frequent travelers who want extra benefits from a loyalty program.
Enterprise:
Most locations allow spouses or domestic partners to be added as a free second driver. Some corporate and membership accounts may also qualify for this benefit. The company is known for being reliable and offering clear, upfront pricing.
Hertz:
In the U.S. and Canada, AAA members and their spouses or domestic partners can be added as free second drivers. This makes it an excellent choice for road trips and family travel.
Avis:
This company offers the same benefit as Hertz, giving AAA members and their spouses or domestic partners a free second driver in the U.S. and Canada. It also has a strong reputation for smooth and reliable service.
Budget:
AAA members and their spouses or domestic partners can add a free additional driver with most rentals in the U.S. and Canada. This company is also known for offering affordable rates, making it a budget-friendly option.
Thrifty:
AAA members can add a free second driver at U.S. locations. This makes it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to save on rental costs.
Dollar:
At U.S. locations, AAA members can add a free additional driver. Combined with the company’s budget-friendly rates, it’s an appealing choice for travelers looking to keep costs low.
Sixt:
Gold, Platinum, and Diamond loyalty members, along with some corporate account holders, can add a free second driver. While this perk isn’t as widely available as others, it’s a valuable benefit for business travelers with qualifying memberships.
Costco Travel:
When you book through Costco Travel, a free second driver is included with rental partners like Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise. It’s a smart option for Costco members who want extra savings and bundled discounts.
Tips Before Adding a Second Driver-New
- Bring ID and a driver’s license for both drivers at pickup.
- Confirm insurance coverage applies to all drivers.
- Check age restrictions (some companies charge extra for drivers under 25).
- Always book with your memberships (AAA, Costco, loyalty programs) to maximize savings.
Why Add an Additional Driver?
Adding a second driver makes trips much easier and safer. It helps reduce tiredness on long drives, gives flexibility if one person needs a break, and allows you to share driving responsibilities.
For families or groups, it also makes the journey more enjoyable, since everyone can relax and take turns behind the wheel.
How to Avoid Paying for an Additional Driver
You can avoid paying extra for a second driver in simple ways. Many car rental companies let your spouse or domestic partner drive free, so always ask first.
Joining loyalty programs like National’s Emerald Club or Sixt’s membership tiers also gives free driver benefits, and these programs usually cost nothing to join.
If you have an AAA membership, you can often add a second driver at no charge with companies like Hertz, Avis, or Budget.
Another smart option is booking through Costco Travel, where rentals from partners like Enterprise or Alamo automatically include a free additional driver.
Which Company Is Best for You?
- Best for Couples/Families: Alamo, Enterprise
- Best for AAA Members: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Thrifty, Dollar
- Best for Frequent Travelers: National (Emerald Club perks)
- Best for Business Travelers: Sixt (corporate accounts + loyalty status)
- Best for Costco Members: Book through Costco Travel
Check also: What Happens If You Return an Enterprise Car Late?
Conclusion
Adding a second driver can save you stress and make road trips more enjoyable. Instead of paying $10–15 per day, you can take advantage of free options through spouse/domestic partner policies, AAA membership, loyalty programs, or Costco Travel bookings. By choosing the right company for your needs, you can avoid unnecessary fees and enjoy a more flexible car rental experience.
FAQs
Enterprise doesn’t charge for a spouse or domestic partner at most U.S. locations. Other drivers usually pay $10–15 daily unless covered by corporate or membership accounts.
Hertz waives the fee for AAA members and spouses/domestic partners in the U.S. and Canada. Show your membership card or partner’s ID when picking up.
Most big rental companies, including Enterprise, Alamo, Hertz, Avis, and Budget, allow spouses or domestic partners to drive free. Always confirm with your rental location first.
Yes, Avis offers free second drivers for AAA members and spouses/domestic partners at U.S. and Canadian locations. Other additional drivers usually pay a daily fee.
AAA members enjoy free additional drivers with Hertz, Avis, Budget, Thrifty, and Dollar. This benefit applies only when booking using your AAA discount code.
Yes, Costco Travel rentals often include a free second driver. Partners like Alamo, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget automatically honor this benefit at approved rental locations.
Yes, National’s Emerald Club members get one free additional driver. Spouses or domestic partners also drive free at all U.S. locations without paying extra.
Sixt usually charges, but Gold, Platinum, or Diamond loyalty members and corporate account holders can add a free second driver at select locations.
Rental companies typically charge $10–15 per day for an extra driver. Over a week, this can add $70–$100 in extra costs.
Both drivers must show valid licenses. If using benefits like AAA, Costco, or loyalty programs, proof of membership may also be required at pickup.
