A group of three friends at a car hire desk, presenting a driving licence and a passport as a second form of ID to an agent.

Do you need a second ID to rent a car in the United States

Not sure whether you need a passport or another document in addition to your licence. This article explains when supp...

4 min read

Quick Summary

  • Most US locations are happy with a valid driving licence and a payment card in the main drivers name.
  • Some suppliers and locations also ask for a second photo id, especially for international visitors or local renters using a debit card.
  • Hola Car Rentals spells out identification rules on every deal so you can pack the correct documents with confidence.

What documents are normally checked

At the desk the agent wants to know who you are, that you are legally allowed to drive and that there is a reliable card to hold the security deposit. A full, in date driving licence that matches the name on your booking and payment card will usually satisfy the basic requirements.

For visitors who are not resident in the United States, a passport is often requested as well. This lets the supplier confirm your nationality and date of birth and can be helpful if there are questions about an international driving permit or translation of your licence.

Examples of when a second id is requested

Some companies use tighter checks for guests who live close to the branch, often called local renters. In that situation you might be asked for a recent utility bill or another document that shows your home address. If you are paying by debit card rather than credit card, the agent may also want extra proof that you are who you say you are.

If you arrive on a long haul flight you may find that airport locations are more used to handling passports and extra documentation. Guests landing at Chicagos main airport and arranging car hire can expect the staff to glance at a passport as well as the licence, especially if the booking has been made for a higher value vehicle group.

Similar routines apply on the West Coast. When you plan San Francisco vehicle pick up through Hola Car Rentals, the confirmation email will highlight if a passport or second photo document is needed alongside your licence at the counter.

Planning your documents with Hola Car Rentals

Hola Car Rentals works with major brands across the country and lists their identification requirements under the terms and conditions section of each offer. Before you confirm, you can see whether the supplier needs a passport, proof of address or simply a licence and card in the same name. That makes it much easier to decide what to put in your hand luggage.

If you prefer to travel light, choosing a branch with simpler requirements may suit you better. For instance, some city locations for Dallas driving breaks are happy with a licence and payment card if you meet the age rules and pass a routine check. Other branches add extra identification steps when guests use a debit card or book larger vehicles.

Families heading away for a week or more may like to carry a small folder with passports, licences and booking printouts for every named driver. For example, a weekend escape from Boston branches is much smoother when each person can show matching documents without searching through bags at the counter.

Hola Car Rentals makes the rest of the process straightforward with clear pricing and an All Inclusive plus rate that includes maximum coverage on many deals. Free cancellation up to forty eight hours before pick up and no additional fees mean you can secure a vehicle now and adjust your plans later if your travel documents change. In some states you can even receive cashback on tolls, which keeps costs predictable when you are exploring new routes.

FAQs

Is a second id always compulsory?

No. Many guests collect their vehicle with only a driving licence and suitable payment card. However some suppliers do make a second identity document compulsory, so it is important to read the specific rules shown in your Hola Car Rentals booking.

What counts as a second form of id?

A passport is the most widely accepted option, especially for international visitors. Other possibilities include a national identity card or, for local renters, an official letter that shows your name and current address. The exact list depends on the supplier.

Do I need a passport if I am a US resident?

Most US residents do not need to show a passport for domestic rentals. A state issued driving licence and payment card in the same name is usually enough. Some branches may still ask for extra id if you pay with a debit card or book at short notice.

Should I carry copies of my documents?

Copies are useful as backup but do not replace originals. Always bring the physical licence and any passport or identity card that the supplier requests in the Hola Car Rentals conditions, then keep copies in a separate place in case anything is lost during the trip.

By checking the identification section of your chosen deal and packing one extra document just in case, you can step up to the desk confident that everything is ready for a relaxed pick up with Hola Car Rentals.