Age Requirements & Young Driver Surcharge
Many international car rental companies in Aruba and the Caribbean refuse to rent to drivers under 21, or charge very high surcharges that make the rental unaffordable. At Hermanos, we take a different approach. We believe young adults deserve the same freedom to explore Aruba independently, with a modest surcharge that reflects the actual insurance cost, not a cash grab.
| Driver Age | Daily Surcharge | Available Categories |
|---|---|---|
| 18–20 years | +$10 / day | Economy, Sedan |
| 21–24 years | +$5 / day | Economy, Sedan, SUV, Jeep |
| 25+ years | None | All categories |
Surcharges are in addition to the base vehicle rental rate. All rentals include standard CDW. Super CDW upgrade available at standard rate.
Documents You Need to Bring
The documents required are the same as for any adult rental, with one extra rule: your driving licence must have been valid for at least 12 months before the rental date. A brand-new licence holder cannot rent. You need demonstrable driving experience.
- Valid driving licence: held for at least 12 months; full/unrestricted licences only
- Passport or national ID: must match the name on the licence
- Credit or debit card in your name: for the security deposit; amount varies by vehicle category
- International Driving Permit (if applicable): required if your home licence uses a non-Latin script
Tips for First-Time Rental Car Drivers
If this is your first time renting a car, or your first time driving abroad, here are the things that make the difference between a smooth experience and a stressful one:
Do the walkaround at pickup
Before you drive away, walk around the car with our team and inspect for any existing scratches, dents, or damage. Make sure everything is noted on the rental agreement. Photograph the car from all angles with your phone, takes 2 minutes and saves potential disputes.
Understand your fuel policy
Most rentals are on a full-to-full basis: you receive the car with a full tank and return it full. If you return it below full, a fuel charge applies. Fill up at the petrol station nearest to our office before returning.
Save our number immediately
As soon as you get into the car, save our WhatsApp number in your phone. If anything happens, whether a flat tyre, lockout, or minor accident, we are your first call. You should never feel stranded.
Respect the insurance limits
Do not drive on unpaved roads unless you have the correct vehicle and add-on. Do not let friends who are not listed as additional drivers take the wheel. These are the most common ways young renters end up with unexpected charges.
Aruba Driving Tips for Young Visitors
Drive on the right
Aruba drives on the right side of the road, the same as the USA. If you are from the UK, Australia, or South Africa, give yourself 10 minutes to adjust on a quiet road before hitting the main traffic.
Watch for drempels (speed bumps)
Speed bumps are extremely common throughout Aruba, including on major roads. They are often unmarked or have faded paint. Going over them too fast can damage the undercarriage, particularly important to know if you are driving an economy car at speed.
Road signs are in Dutch and English
Main signs are bilingual. Distances are in kilometres. Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour. The maximum speed on the highway is 80 km/h; in residential areas it is typically 40 km/h.
Roundabouts give way to traffic in the circle
At roundabouts in Aruba, vehicles already in the roundabout have priority. Yield to traffic from the left when entering.
Parking in Oranjestad
The main shopping street (Caya G.F. Betico Croes) has metered parking on nearby side streets. Economy cars are much easier to park in the city than larger vehicles, a genuine benefit for young drivers exploring Oranjestad.
Fuel stations close early
Most petrol stations close by 9pm or 10pm. Fill up before the evening, especially if you plan to explore the more remote east coast or Arikok area.
A Note on Responsible Driving
Aruba has strict drink-driving laws. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, lower than in many US states. Police conduct roadside checks particularly around the Palm Beach resort corridor at night. We take no position on your holiday choices, but we do strongly recommend always having a designated driver or using a taxi after a night out. The island is small and taxis are readily available through any hotel or WhatsApp.
Young Driver FAQ
What is the minimum age to rent a car at Hermanos?
The minimum age is 18 years old. Drivers aged 18–20 pay a young driver surcharge and are limited to certain vehicle categories. Drivers aged 21–24 pay a reduced surcharge. Full standard rates apply from age 25 onwards.
What documents do I need as a young driver?
You need a valid driving licence (held for at least 1 year), your passport or national ID, and a credit or debit card in your name for the security deposit. If you hold a non-Latin-script licence (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Japanese), you will also need an International Driving Permit.
How much is the young driver surcharge?
The surcharge for drivers aged 18–20 is $10 per day. For drivers aged 21–24, the surcharge is $5 per day. These are added to the base rental rate and include the same CDW coverage as standard adult rentals.
Can I take an additional young driver?
Yes. Additional drivers are added to the agreement for a small daily fee. All additional drivers must be present at pickup with their own licence and ID. Young driver surcharges apply per driver based on their individual age.
Which car categories are available to under-21 drivers?
Drivers aged 18–20 can rent economy and sedan categories. SUVs are available from age 21. Jeeps and 4x4s require the driver to be at least 21. This is a standard industry policy related to insurance requirements.
I have a provisional licence. Can I rent?
No. You must hold a full, unrestricted driving licence. Provisional or learner licences are not accepted. Your licence must have been held for at least 12 months.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Don't let your age stop you from exploring Aruba independently. WhatsApp us with your licence details and travel dates and we will sort everything out.