It’s not really a legal requirement for rental car companies to run driver record checks. That’s why some rental companies let you drive their rental cars as long you present them with a valid driver’s license. Basically, this helps to absolve the rental company from responsibility should your driving result in a legal mess.
But some rental companies such as Budget do run these driver record checks, just to make sure. While the good news is that the overwhelming majority of drivers tend to pass this record check, there are still some rare risks.
You may end up being rejected by a rental car company for the following reasons:
- You don’t have a valid driver’s license. It must not be revoked, expired, or even suspended.
- There’s a breathalyzer requirement on your driver’s license. This is a clear sign you’re a repeat DUI offender. Even car rental companies who don’t normally do record checks will ban you if you have this on your license.
- You’ve been convicted of reckless driving. This may lead to your ban if the conviction is within the last 36 months.
- You’ve been convicted for DUI. These can include similar charges like driving while alcohol-impaired or driving while intoxicated, especially within the last 2 years.
- You’ve been charged with leaving the scene of an accident (or failure to report). Usually, there should be no such charges for the last 36 months.
- You’ve been convicted for moving violations 3 times during the last 24 months. These violations include not wearing your seatbelt.
- You’ve been in 3 accidents within the last 36 months. Even if none of those accidents are your fault, that’s just too suspicious.
- You’ve been in possession of a stolen vehicle. Even if this charge was 20 years ago, this may still be enough to get you banned!
The moral of the story is simple—follow the rules and you can rent a car without issues.
