You generally need to be at least 18 years old to rent and drive a U‑Haul truck, and at least 16 years old to rent just a U‑Haul trailer.

Basic age rules

  • Minimum 18 years old to rent a U‑Haul moving truck, pickup, or van.
  • Minimum 16 years old to rent a U‑Haul trailer (pulled by a qualifying vehicle and licensed driver).
  • Unlike many car rental companies that require 21–25, U‑Haul allows 18-year-olds to rent trucks without a “young driver” surcharge.

Other requirements besides age

Even if you meet the age rule, you still need:

  • A valid, government‑issued driver’s license that is valid on the rental day (temporary licenses are usually accepted if valid).
  • A credit or debit card in your name for the reservation, deposit, and final charges.
  • A vehicle that can safely tow, if you’re renting a trailer (and it must meet U‑Haul’s hitch and weight specs).

Nuances and local variations

  • Some locations or franchise operators may apply stricter internal policies (for example, being more cautious with very young drivers or larger trucks).
  • Your driving record can matter: multiple recent accidents or serious violations can lead to a denial even if you’re old enough.
  • Insurance options (damage waiver, supplemental coverage) are often recommended more strongly for younger renters due to higher risk.

Quick example scenario

If you’re 18 with a valid license and card, you can typically rent a 10–20 ft U‑Haul truck for a local move, while your 17‑year‑old friend could not be the renter but might ride along as a passenger if allowed by the location’s policy.

Mini FAQ

  • How old to rent a U‑Haul truck?
    18 or older in most standard cases.
  • How old to rent just a trailer?
    At least 16 years old.
  • Is there a “under‑25” fee like car rentals?
    No typical young‑driver surcharge is listed for 18–24 year‑old U‑Haul renters, unlike most car rental brands.
  • Can rules change by state or location?
    Core minimums (16 for trailers, 18 for trucks) are company‑wide, but local practices and risk checks can add extra conditions, so it’s smart to call the exact location first.

Do you want this broken down for a specific state (like California or Washington) or just general U.S. rules?