What Avis accepts for international renters
Avis will rent to you with an international driver's license, but only if you also have your valid driver's license from your home country. Avis does not accept the international license alone. You need both documents together — the international license serves as a translation and verification tool, but your original national license is what proves you are legally licensed to drive.
The international driver's license is issued by your home country's motor vehicle authority and is valid for one year from the date of issue. It translates your driving privileges into multiple languages, which helps rental staff and police officers in other countries understand your license status. Avis recognizes this document as legitimate identification, but the company's policy requires the original license as well.
Key Takeaways
- Avis requires both your international driver's license and your original home country driver's license — neither one alone is enough.
- Your international license must be valid (not expired) and must have been issued by your home country's official motor vehicle authority.
- You will also need a passport or national ID card, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance coverage that extends to the rental vehicle.
- Rental rates and insurance requirements for international drivers vary by location, so contact your specific Avis branch before you arrive.
- Some countries have additional restrictions on who can rent from Avis, so check with the branch in the country where you plan to rent.
What documents to bring when you rent
Bring your passport or national ID card along with both your international and home country driver's licenses. Avis staff will check all three documents. The passport or ID establishes your identity, and the two licenses together prove you have legal driving authority in your home country and that this authority has been officially translated.
You will also need a valid credit card in your own name — Avis uses this to hold a security deposit, which is separate from the rental charge. The amount varies by location and vehicle type. Bring proof that your personal auto insurance or a separate travel insurance policy covers rental vehicles in the country where you are renting. Some policies exclude rentals, so check before you arrive. If your insurance does not cover rentals, Avis offers collision damage waiver and liability coverage, which you can purchase at the rental counter.
Age requirements and additional fees
Avis rents to drivers as young as 18 in most locations, but charges a daily underage driver fee for renters under 25. This fee is not the same everywhere — it depends on the country and the specific rental location. Some Avis branches outside the United States have higher minimum age requirements, so confirm the policy at the branch where you plan to rent.
The underage fee is added to your daily rental rate. If you are under 25, ask about this cost when you contact Avis to reserve your vehicle. Some credit cards or travel insurance policies cover this fee, so check your benefits before you pay.
Insurance and liability coverage for international renters
Avis requires you to carry liability insurance that covers you while driving a rental vehicle in the country where you are renting. Your personal auto insurance from your home country may not extend to rentals abroad — many policies exclude them entirely. Contact your insurance company before your trip to confirm whether your coverage applies.
If your personal insurance does not cover rentals, you have two options. You can purchase a separate travel insurance policy that includes rental car coverage before you leave home, or you can buy collision damage waiver and liability coverage from Avis at the rental counter. Avis coverage is more expensive but requires no advance planning. Travel insurance is usually cheaper if you purchase it before your trip, but you must research and buy it yourself.
How to reserve a car as an international driver
Reserve your vehicle through Avis's website or by calling the specific branch where you plan to pick up the car. When you make the reservation, tell Avis that you are an international driver and will be presenting an international license. This alerts the branch to check for any location-specific restrictions and to confirm that your rental dates fall within your license's validity period.
Provide your email address during the reservation so Avis can send you a confirmation with the exact documents you need to bring and any location-specific requirements. Print this confirmation and bring it with you, along with all your documents. Arrive at least 30 minutes early on your rental day — international rentals take longer because staff must verify your licenses and insurance coverage.
What happens if your international license has expired
Avis will not rent to you if your international driver's license has expired. The license is valid for one year from the date of issue, and Avis checks the expiration date before handing over the keys. If your license expired, you cannot rent from Avis, even if your home country license is still valid.
If you are traveling and discover your international license has expired, you have limited options. You cannot renew it while abroad — you must return to your home country to explore for a new one through your motor vehicle authority. Some car rental companies outside the United States may rent to you with only your home country license, but Avis's policy requires the international license as well. Contact Avis at your rental location to ask whether an exception is possible, though exceptions are rare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent from Avis with just my international driver's license and no home country license?
No. Avis requires both documents. The international license alone is not enough because it is a translation and verification tool, not proof of your original driving authority. You must present your valid home country license along with the international license.
Do I need an international driver's license if I am renting in my home country?
No. If you are renting in the country where your license was issued, bring only your valid home country driver's license. The international license is meant for travel to other countries.
What if my home country does not issue international driver's licenses?
Contact Avis at the branch where you plan to rent and ask about alternative documents. Some countries do not participate in the international licensing system, and Avis may accept other official translations of your license or may have a different process for your situation.
Will Avis accept a digital or mobile version of my international driver's license?
Avis policy requires physical, printed documents. Digital versions are not accepted. Bring printed copies of both your international and home country licenses.
How far in advance should I book if I am an international driver?
Book at least one week ahead so Avis has time to confirm that your licenses are valid and that no location-specific restrictions explore. International rentals require extra verification, and booking early gives the branch time to prepare.