Receiving a DUI means having your license suspended, paying heavy fines and possible jail time. This can prove troublesome if you’re looking to rent a car for work or travel since car rental companies require proof you have a driver’s license and some may want to look into past driving records.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re looking to rent a car:
Not all car rentals have the same policies
Standard car rentals typically have a series of policies listed on or around their webpage. You can ask someone at the dealership if they aren’t initially listed. These policies may require more than just showing your ID. Some companies may look into your driving records for any misdemeanors that might endanger their vehicles. As much as they would like to rent to people, they have the right to protect their assets. Car rental policies are not so cut-and-dry for every rental company.
Places like Budget may deny a rental because of “a DUI, DWI, or DWAI conviction within 48 months.” This policy is not uncommon for rental companies. You’ll have no problem renting a car after four years if this is your first conviction. However, companies like Dollar don’t have explicit policies regarding DUI’s or other driving convictions. Taking a car off their lot could be in your best interest if you have a DUI.
These are all larger companies and don’t reflect the policies of smaller companies. Smaller dealerships may have lax policies that both support a variety of customers and make profits from their location.
A drunk driving conviction can affect your life in big and small ways for years to come. This is just one more reason you need an experienced defense.
