Key Takeaways
- U-Haul will not rent to you without a government-issued photo ID, and a driver's license is the standard form they accept.
- Your license must be valid on the rental date — expired licenses are not accepted, even if the expiration is recent.
- U-Haul checks your driving record and may deny the rental if you have serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving convictions, or multiple at-fault accidents within the past three to five years.
- If you do not have a driver's license, a passport or state ID card may work, but you should call your local U-Haul location to confirm before showing up.
- The person whose name is on the rental agreement must be present with ID at pickup — you cannot rent under someone else's license.
What ID U-Haul Will Accept
A valid driver's license is U-Haul's preferred form of identification. It must be government-issued, include a photo, and be current — not expired. U-Haul staff will scan or photograph your license at the rental counter and verify the information matches your reservation.
If you do not have a driver's license, U-Haul may accept other government-issued photo IDs in some cases. A state ID card, passport, or passport card can sometimes work, but acceptance varies by location. Call the specific U-Haul location where you plan to rent and ask whether they will accept your ID type before you arrive. Do not assume — policies differ between franchises and company-operated locations.
Your ID must be in your legal name, and that name must match the name on your rental reservation. If your name has changed since your ID was issued, bring documentation of the name change along with your current ID.
Why U-Haul Checks Your Driving Record
U-Haul runs a background check using your license number and personal information. This check looks at your driving history and criminal record. The company uses this information to assess risk — they are insuring the vehicle against damage and liability, and they want to know whether you have a pattern of violations or accidents.
Certain violations will disqualify you from renting, even if your license is valid and not suspended. These typically include DUI or DWI convictions, reckless driving convictions, hit-and-run charges, and multiple at-fault accidents. The lookback period is usually three to five years, though serious felonies may go back further. U-Haul does not publish an exact list of disqualifying offenses, so if you have concerns about your record, contact the location directly before reserving.
If you are denied a rental because of your driving record, U-Haul will tell you the reason. You can request a copy of the background report used in the decision and dispute any errors with the reporting agency.
What Happens at Pickup
When you arrive to pick up your truck, bring your ID and your reservation confirmation. The U-Haul employee will verify that you are the person named on the agreement, check that your ID is valid, and may ask follow-up questions about your driving record if anything flagged during the background check.
You will also need to provide a credit card for the security deposit and rental charges. The card must be in your name. Some locations accept debit cards, but credit cards are preferred because the hold is easier to release after you return the vehicle.
If the background check revealed something that requires clarification, be honest and direct. Lying or providing false information can result in when ready denial and may affect your ability to rent from U-Haul in the future.
If Your License Is Suspended or Expired
U-Haul will not rent to you if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired. An expired license means you are not legally authorized to drive, so U-Haul treats it the same way a police officer would — as invalid identification.
If your license is suspended, you cannot legally operate a rental vehicle anyway, so no rental company will rent to you. If your license has expired but you have applied for renewal and received a temporary permit, check with your local U-Haul location about whether they will accept the temporary document. Policies vary, and some locations may not.
If you are in this situation, the only solution is to renew your license before your rental date. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out how long the renewal process takes in your area.
Renting Under Someone Else's Name
The person whose name appears on the rental agreement must be the person who picks up the truck. That person must present their own valid ID. U-Haul will not rent a truck to one person and allow a different person to drive it away.
If you need someone else to pick up the truck on your behalf, some U-Haul locations allow an authorized driver to be added to the agreement before pickup. This person must also present valid ID and pass the background check. Call ahead to ask whether your location offers this option and what documentation you need to provide.
The primary renter (the person whose name is on the agreement) remains responsible for the vehicle and any damage or violations, regardless of who actually drives it.
International Drivers and Visitors
If you are visiting the United States and have an international driver's license, U-Haul may rent to you, but requirements vary. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually accepted alongside your passport and your home country's driver's license. Some U-Haul locations are stricter than others.
Call the specific location where you plan to rent and describe your documentation. Bring your passport, your home country's license, and your IDP if you have one. Be prepared to show proof of your U.S. address during your stay (a hotel confirmation or friend's address works). U-Haul may also require a larger security deposit for international renters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a U-Haul truck if my license is valid but I have a DUI on my record?
It depends on how recent the DUI is and your location. Most U-Haul locations will deny a rental if the DUI conviction is within the past three to five years. Some may go back further. Contact the specific location where you want to rent and ask directly — they can tell you whether your record will disqualify you before you make a reservation.
What if I lost my driver's license and don't have time to replace it?
U-Haul will not rent to you without a valid government-issued photo ID. If you have lost your license, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles about expedited replacement options. Some states offer same-day or next-day replacement at certain locations. A temporary paper license may not be accepted — call U-Haul to ask first.
Do I need to bring my physical license card, or can I show it on my phone?
U-Haul requires a physical ID card. They will scan or photograph it at the counter. A digital copy on your phone is not sufficient. Bring the actual card.
Can someone else pick up the truck if I add them as an authorized driver?
Some U-Haul locations allow you to add an authorized driver to your agreement before pickup, but not all do. That person must present their own valid ID and pass a background check. Call your local U-Haul location to ask whether they offer this option and what you need to do to set it up.
Will U-Haul rent to me if I have multiple traffic tickets?
Traffic tickets alone usually do not disqualify you. U-Haul is more concerned with serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving convictions, and at-fault accidents. Minor speeding tickets or parking violations typically will not prevent a rental. If you are unsure, call the location and describe your record.