If you’re over 75 and thinking about hiring a car, you might be wondering if you can still get car hire excess insurance, or what the rules might be for older drivers. You’re definitely not alone; lots of older drivers ask these questions. After all, wanting to have the convenience of a hire car when visiting your favourite tried-and-tested destination or exploring an exciting new country doesn’t stop when you reach a certain age. Alternatively, you may have a second home abroad that you regularly visit, which is becoming increasingly common. Hiring a car when you visit your second home makes more sense than buying a car and leaving it parked for long stretches of time, which is risky.
We believe hiring a car should be as easy, seamless, and hassle-free as possible so below, we will walk you through exactly what you need to know about the whole car hire excess insurance process and, crucially, how you can make it just that little bit easier.
What is Car Hire Excess Insurance?
Before we get into why the age of potential drivers can matter, let's talk about the basics. When you rent a car, the rental company typically holds a deposit on your card, which is called the excess. This is the maximum amount you’d be responsible for if the car gets damaged or stolen during your rental period, whether that’s for minor damage like a scratch or more challenging situations like an accident. Situations like these are never pleasant to think about but they do happen, and it can be very helpful to think ahead so you are as prepared as you can be.
Think of the excess like a financial safety buffer. The rental company wants to make sure you’re serious about looking after the car, so they hold this amount just in case. But, if something does happen, you could be on the hook for that excess and that can be a hefty surprise.
That’s where car hire excess insurance comes in. This insurance helps cover or reimburse that excess fee, so you’re not left with a big, unexpected bill. It’s peace of mind, wrapped up in a neat little policy.
Why Age Matters for Car Hire Excess Insurance Companies
Now, here’s the truth: when you’re over 75, things can get a bit more complicated when trying to hire a car, regardless of the reason you’re doing so. Why? Because car rental companies and insurers view senior drivers as a higher risk. This is mostly because studies suggest reaction times and physical abilities can change with age, namely that they can decrease. This could potentially increase the risk of an older driver being involved in some kind of accident. That doesn’t mean older drivers are suddenly unsafe on the road; in fact, the wealth of experience on the road that they have can be a huge advantage. But annoying as this can be, it does mean car hire firms and insurers might have extra rules for them.
If you’re wondering about car hire excess insurance as an older driver, you’ll want to bear in mind that age can influence:
- Whether you’re allowed to rent certain types of vehicles
- How much your insurance premiums might be
- What documentation you’ll need to provide
- Possible surcharges or restrictions
Challenges Older Drivers Face When Booking Car Hire Insurance
If you're over 75 and planning to drive, it's important to ensure your driving licence is up to date. In the UK, once you reach 70, you must renew your licence every three years, confirming that you meet the necessary health and eyesight standards. This renewal process is free and can be completed online through the DVLA's official website.
When it comes to hiring a car, age restrictions can vary between rental companies. Some may impose upper age limits or require additional documentation for senior drivers. Therefore, it's advisable to check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen rental company in advance to ensure a smooth hiring experience
Below are a few other things to bear in mind:
- Insurance Restrictions and Costs: Some insurance providers don’t cover drivers over a certain age, or they might charge higher premiums to cover the increased risk.
- Additional Documentation: Older drivers may need to provide a recent medical certificate or proof of fitness to drive. This extra paperwork helps rental companies feel confident that you’re still able to drive with no medical issues.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Some firms limit the types of cars seniors can rent, which usually means no sports cars or high-performance vehicles. If you were dreaming of a flashy convertible, you might need to adjust your plans.
While the above might be a little disheartening, the good news is that these challenges aren’t deal breakers! They just mean you need to be a little more prepared upfront to mitigate and avoid any last-minute surprises or disappointments. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely road trip near you or are looking to hire a car across the Channel, understanding the rules around car hire excess insurance for older drivers lets you enjoy your journey with confidence and peace of mind.
How Gigasure Can Help
At Gigasure, we believe insurance should be straightforward, no matter your age. We believe that, regardless of why you’re hiring a car (maybe you’re visiting your second home, maybe you’re visiting an exciting new place), hiring a car shouldn’t be a big hassle. Our Car Hire Excess Insurance is designed to give you the protection you need without the confusing jargon so common in insurance policies or sneaky exclusions. We work to make sure that older drivers, like any other driver, can get reliable cover that fits their needs and gives them the peace of mind they need for their trip.
We know many rental companies charge excess fees that start at over £500, and in some cases, they can go as high as £2,000. Our Car Hire Excess insurance is a more budget-friendly but reliable, high-quality alternative. While the typical car hire desk policy can cost around £9 a day, our cover is usually lower in price and includes protection for parts that are often excluded, like tyres, windows, roof, and undercarriage.
If you're hiring a car in the USA, Canada, the Caribbean, or anywhere in Central or South America, the policy includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW).
In short, we endeavour to help you avoid high excess fees and save money on insurance, all while making the experience of renting a car smoother and less stressful.
Tips for Older Drivers Hiring a Car
To make your car hire experience as smooth as possible, here are a few extra tips:
- Book early: Some rental companies reserve their best cars and policies for early bookers.
- Check age restrictions in policies: Always read the fine print for age limits or surcharges.
- Have your documents ready: A recent medical certificate might be needed.
- Choose the right car: Choose a comfortable, reliable vehicle rather than something flashy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get car hire excess insurance if I’m over 75?
Yes! Many insurers do indeed offer car hire excess insurance over 75. Just be sure to check the policy terms, as coverage can vary depending on your age and the car hire location. Being over 75 does mean you need to be slightly more prepared in advance, however, so do bear this in mind.
Are there car hire age limits I should know about?
Some rental companies have car hire age limits, often around 75 or 80 years old. Beyond this, you might face restrictions or extra fees. It’s always best to check with the car hire company before booking; most companies will have an FAQ section or similar that will contain this information. At Gigasure, our age limit is 85.
Do I need a medical certificate to rent a car or get insurance if I’m over 75?
Sometimes, yes. Car hire companies or insurers might ask for proof that you’re medically fit to drive, especially if you’re over 75. It’s a way to keep everyone safe and ensure your insurance remains valid. If you want to make the process as smooth as possible, it may be useful to have one of these prior to making an inquiry as it may help speed up the process for you.
How does car hire excess insurance work?
Car hire excess insurance works as a financial safety net when you’re renting a car. Most car rental companies include a basic level of insurance in the booking, but it usually comes with a hefty excess, the amount you’d have to pay out of pocket if the car is damaged or stolen, even if it’s not your fault. This can often be hundreds, sometimes even thousands of pounds. Car hire excess insurance steps in to cover that cost. So, if something does go wrong, you pay the rental company the excess upfront and then claim that amount back through your excess insurance provider. It’s a way to protect yourself from unexpectedly large bills and travel with a bit more peace of mind.
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