Car Rental Under 25 San Diego Zero Young Driver Fee
Enterprise charges $35/day if you're under 25. Hertz: $29/day. CMW: $0 — same rate as everyone else, from age 18 upward.
Does CMW Charge An Under-25 Fee?
No. CMW Car Rentals does not charge an under-25 or young-driver surcharge. Eligible drivers 18 and older pay based on vehicle category, rental length, season, and availability, not simply age.
Policy last updated May 14, 2026. Call 858-560-1919 for current rates and pickup requirements.
Renting Under 25 Without the Penalty
Many San Diego renters discover the real price of a rental only after the young driver surcharge is added at the counter. CMW keeps the policy simple: renters age 18 and older can reserve a vehicle, and drivers under 25 are not charged a separate young driver fee.
That matters for students, military members, visiting family, workers between vehicles, and local drivers who need transportation for a few days or a few weeks. Instead of paying a daily age surcharge on top of the rental rate, you can put that money toward the actual trip.
Our Kearny Mesa location is central to San Diego, with quick access to Mission Valley, Clairemont, Linda Vista, Pacific Beach, downtown, and the major freeways. You can call ahead, confirm availability with a real person, and pick up a car without navigating airport counter policies.
What to Bring When You Pick Up
Bring a valid driver's license and your preferred payment method. CMW accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards, which gives younger renters more flexibility than many national chains that require a major credit card.
- Minimum rental age is 18 with a valid driver's license.
- No added daily surcharge for ages 18 through 24.
- Economy cars, sedans, and SUVs are available based on current fleet availability.
- Daily, weekly, and monthly rental options are available.
- Unlimited mileage is included for approved driving areas.
If your schedule may change, tell us when you reserve. We can explain extension options, deposits, insurance requirements, and vehicle availability before you arrive, so the rental is clear from the start.
For under-25 renters, the biggest advantage is knowing the age policy before you make plans. You do not need to wait until pickup to learn whether the rate changed because of your birthday. CMW gives you a local San Diego rental option with clear age rules, flexible payment methods, and a team you can reach by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't CMW charge young driver fees when most rental companies do?+
CMW is an independent, family-owned operation. We set our own policies and have chosen not to penalize younger drivers. As long as you're 18+ with a valid license, you pay the same rate as any other renter.
Is there a different deposit amount for drivers under 25?+
The deposit for cash and debit rentals is based on the vehicle category and rental duration — not the driver's age. Under-25 renters pay the same deposit as older renters.
What is the absolute minimum age to rent at CMW?+
18 years old. There is no exception below this age — state law and our insurance require drivers to be at least 18.
Do I need to show proof of age when picking up the vehicle?+
Your valid government-issued driver's license serves as proof of both identity and age. No separate age verification document is needed.
Are there any vehicle restrictions for younger drivers?+
No. All vehicle categories — economy cars, sedans, and SUVs — are available to drivers 18 and older at no additional surcharge.
How much can I save by avoiding a young driver fee?+
National rental companies often add a daily young driver surcharge for renters under 25. CMW does not add that fee, so the savings depend on your rental length and the fees you would have paid elsewhere. Call for current vehicle rates and availability.
Can college students rent if they are under 25?+
Yes. Students age 18 and older can rent with a valid driver's license and required payment or deposit. CMW accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
Do under-25 renters need special insurance?+
Under-25 renters follow the same insurance requirements as other renters. You can use qualifying personal auto insurance or ask about available coverage options when you reserve.
Are weekly or monthly rentals available for young drivers?+
Yes. Eligible drivers under 25 can reserve daily, weekly, or monthly rentals based on current fleet availability and rental terms.
Do under-25 renters pay a higher deposit?+
Deposit requirements are based on factors like payment method, vehicle category, and rental length, not simply age. Call CMW before pickup for the current deposit requirement.
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