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Hertz · United States

Does Hertz require an IDP in United States?

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United States lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Hertz still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Hertz in United States
Hertz IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
Hertz footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age16+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Hertz in United States: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for licences not printed in the Roman alphabet, and for non-EU renters in much of Europe. One of the largest global rental networks, operating in 150+ countries.

Foreign visitors may drive on a valid home licence; an IDP provides an official translation many rental desks and police prefer.

In United States specifically, united States lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Hertz still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Budget and National recommend an IDP for non-English licences.

Hertz runs a global network; at its United States desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. United States drives on the right, uses the USD, and sets a minimum driving age of 16; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the Hertz counter in United States

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the USD deposit; United States drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in United States Hertz renters should know

  • Traffic laws vary by state.
  • Right turn on red generally permitted after stopping.
  • School-bus stop laws strictly enforced.
  • Alcohol limit 0.08% (lower for commercial/under-21).

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Hertz in United States?
United States lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but Hertz still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Hertz desk in United States?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. United States drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 16+.
03
What is Hertz's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for licences not printed in the Roman alphabet, and for non-EU renters in much of Europe. One of the largest global rental networks, operating in 150+ countries.