Can I Rent a Car with a DUI?

At some point in your life, it’s likely that you may need to rent a vehicle. It could be due to car troubles, a business trip, or just to use during a vacation. Either way, you might be wondering if you can rent a car with a DUI record. In recent years, rental companies have been checking customers’ records because it helps to reduce any possible losses and to avoid liability for damages. Most companies conduct a background check background before allowing customers to rent a vehicle.

What to Expect?

When renting a car, you will most likely have to sign a form to acknowledge the company’s policies. Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and Thrift all check customers’ driving history at some point. They do this by checking Department of Motor Vehicle databases. Keep in mind that there is a difference between criminal records and driving records. Check the DMV website to read about the effect of expungement concerning criminal and driving records.

Factors that might prevent a person from renting include:

• Operating a vehicle without a license
• Driving under the influence of alcohol (D.U.I.)
• Driving while intoxicated (D.W.I.)
• Being involved in any recent car accidents
• Unpaid parking tickets

However, Enterprise is one of the few companies that does not perform a DMV record check. The company instead requires a valid driver’s license but may collect personal information. Still, it can be difficult to obtain a valid driver’s license with a DUI record, depending on the state.  It’s best to check with your states DMV for a full list of requirements. You can check the DMV website to request a copy of your driving record.

If you have a suspended driver’s license, your state may require you to:

• Refrain from driving for a period of time
• Enroll in a defensive driving courseor traffic school
• Get an SR22 from your insurance company
• Pay a reinstatement fee

What to Do?

To find out if you are qualified to rent a vehicle with a DUI or any other record it would be best to contact the rental company directly. In some cases, relying on Uber, Lyft or a taxi may be the best option. Renting a car shouldn’t be a stressful situation. Fortunately, Texas recently passed a new ‘Second Chance’ law, making it possible to seal a DWI record. Take our free, confidential eligibility test to see if you qualify for criminal record removal services.