Car Hire
We will be booking a car with my wifes credit card,will I still be ok to drive it shes a non driver?
Yes, in most cases, you should be able to drive the rental car even if the car is booked with your wife's credit card, as long as you meet the rental company's requirements. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Rental Policies
Rental car companies generally allow the primary renter to have a different driver as long as that person is listed as an additional driver on the rental agreement. This is common for spouses or family members. The fact that the credit card used for booking is your wife's doesn't typically prevent you from driving as long as you meet the following conditions:
- Age Requirements: You must meet the rental agency’s age requirements, which typically mean being at least 21 years old (some companies may require drivers to be 25, or charge extra fees for younger drivers).
- Valid Driver’s License: You will need to present a valid driver’s license at the time of rental. Your wife, as a non-driver, would not be expected to have a license in this case.
- Additional Driver Fees: Some rental companies may charge a fee for adding an additional driver to the agreement, so you should check if this applies. However, many agencies waive this fee for spouses.
2. Adding You as an Additional Driver
If you are not the primary driver on the reservation, you will need to be added as an additional driver. This can typically be done at the rental counter when you pick up the car, and it may require an extra fee (which can sometimes be waived for spouses). Make sure to bring your valid driver’s license, and they may ask for proof of identification.
3. Credit Card Use
While your wife’s credit card will be used for the payment, this doesn’t usually prevent you from being able to drive the car. However, make sure that the car rental company is aware that the payment is being made by a third party (if your wife won’t be present) as some agencies may require authorization from the cardholder.
4. Potential Issues
In rare cases, if the rental company’s policy requires the credit card holder to also be the primary driver, they may not allow you to drive the vehicle unless your wife is present to sign the contract. This is something you should verify with the rental company beforehand to avoid any confusion or complications at pickup.
5. International Rentals
If you are renting the car abroad or in another state, the policies may vary slightly, and it’s a good idea to confirm the specific rules with the rental agency to ensure that your wife’s credit card is sufficient for booking, and that you are eligible to drive the car.
Conclusion: As long as you meet the general requirements and are added as an additional driver, you should be good to go. Just make sure to confirm the details with the rental agency when you make the reservation or when you pick up the vehicle, especially regarding the additional driver fee and any special requirements about the credit card holder. Safe travels!
