U-Haul's age requirement is 18 years old, but you'll need a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name

U-Haul requires renters to be at least 18 years old to rent any truck, trailer, or moving equipment. You must present a valid driver's license issued by your state or country at the time of rental. The license doesn't have to be a commercial license — a standard passenger license works. You'll also need a credit card in your own name to complete the reservation and pay the rental fee.

If you're 18 or 19, U-Haul may charge you an additional young renter fee on top of the standard rental rate. This fee varies by location and truck size, so ask about it when you book. Some U-Haul locations have stricter policies and may not rent to drivers under 21, so call ahead if you're in that age range to confirm availability at your specific location.

Key Takeaways

  • U-Haul's minimum age is 18 with a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name.
  • Renters aged 18 or 19 may pay an additional young renter fee that varies by location.
  • Some U-Haul locations will not rent to anyone under 21, so confirm with your local branch before booking.
  • You must be the person driving the truck — you cannot rent it and have someone else drive it.
  • A commercial driver's license is not required unless you're renting a truck over a certain weight threshold, which varies by state.

What happens if you're under 18

U-Haul will not rent to anyone under 18, regardless of whether a parent or guardian co-signs. This is a firm policy across all U-Haul locations. If you need to move before you turn 18, you'll need to hire a moving company or rent from a competitor that may have different age policies — though most major rental companies (Penske, Home Depot, Budget) also set their minimum at 18.

Some smaller local moving truck rental companies may rent to 16 or 17-year-olds with parental permission, but these are rare and often limited to specific regions. Call rental companies in your area directly to ask about their policies if you fall into this age group.

Young renter fees and insurance costs

If you're 18 to 20 years old, U-Haul charges a young renter fee that typically ranges from $15 to $25 per day, though this varies by location and truck size. This is separate from the base rental rate. The fee applies whether you're renting for one day or a week.

Insurance and damage waivers also cost more for younger renters. U-Haul's Damage Waiver (which covers most accidental damage to the truck) may be unavailable to renters under 21 at some locations, or it may carry a higher daily rate. Ask about the total cost of insurance when you call to book, because the young renter fee plus insurance can add significantly to your final bill.

Commercial driver's license requirements

You do not need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to rent most U-Haul trucks. A standard passenger license is sufficient for trucks under a certain weight threshold. In most states, that threshold is 26,001 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). U-Haul's largest moving trucks (like the 26-foot box truck) typically fall just under this limit, so a regular license works.

However, CDL requirements vary by state, and some states have lower thresholds. If you're renting a very large truck or a specialty vehicle, ask U-Haul directly whether your state requires a CDL for that vehicle. You can also check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for the exact weight threshold in your area.

How to book as a young renter

Book online at uhaul.com or call 1-800-GO-UHAUL (1-800-468-4285) to reserve your truck. When you book, you'll be asked for your age. If you're under 21, the system will flag you and show the young renter fee before you confirm. You can also ask about the fee when you call — the representative can tell you the exact amount for your location and truck size.

At pickup, bring your valid driver's license, the credit card you used to book, and a second form of ID (passport, state ID, or military ID). Some locations may ask for proof of insurance, though U-Haul's damage waiver can cover this. Arrive early on your pickup day, because processing takes longer for younger renters due to additional paperwork and fee verification.

What you cannot do as a young renter

You must be the person driving the truck at all times. U-Haul does not allow you to rent a truck and have someone else drive it, even if that person is older and has a valid license. The person whose name is on the rental agreement is the only person authorized to operate the vehicle.

If you need someone else to drive part of the way, you can add an additional driver to your rental agreement at pickup. That person must also present a valid driver's license and may be subject to their own age-related fees if they're also under 21. Adding a driver typically costs $5 to $10 per day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my parent rent the truck and let me drive it?

No. The person whose name is on the rental agreement must be the primary driver. Your parent could rent the truck and add you as an additional driver, but you'd still need to be at least 18 with a valid license. Your parent would be responsible for any damage or violations.

Do I need a credit card if I'm 18?

Yes. U-Haul requires a credit card in your name to complete any reservation, regardless of age. Debit cards are not accepted. The card is used to hold the reservation and process payment at pickup.

Will U-Haul rent to me if I have a learner's permit instead of a license?

No. U-Haul requires a valid, unrestricted driver's license. A learner's permit is not sufficient. You must have passed your driving test and received your full license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

What's the difference between U-Haul's young renter fee and the damage waiver?

The young renter fee is a daily charge U-Haul adds to your base rental rate if you're under 21. The damage waiver is optional insurance that covers accidental damage to the truck. Both cost extra, but they're separate charges. You can decline the damage waiver, but you cannot avoid the young renter fee.

Can I rent a U-Haul trailer instead of a truck if I'm under 21?

Yes, U-Haul's age and fee policies explore to trailers as well. You'll still need to be 18, have a valid license and credit card, and may pay a young renter fee depending on your location. Trailers are often cheaper to rent than trucks, so this can be a cost-saving option if you only need to move a small amount.