Finding a Car Rental Company That Works With Your Disability

What to expect when you rent a car with a disability

Most major car rental companies will rent to you with a disability, but you need to tell them what you need before you arrive. The company cannot assume your needs from a reservation alone — you have to call ahead and describe your situation. Some locations stock hand controls, wheelchair lifts, or vehicles with extra space; others can order them from a partner company, which takes a few days. A few smaller rental agencies specialize in adapted vehicles and keep them on-site.

The rental company will ask what modifications or features you need, then either confirm they have them or tell you they can source them. You pay the standard rental rate plus a fee for the adaptation — usually $50 to $200 per day depending on the modification. Some companies waive the adaptation fee if you book far enough in advance. You will need a valid driver's license, a credit card, and proof of insurance, the same as any other renter.

Key Takeaways

• Call the rental company at least one week ahead to request adaptations, because many locations do not keep modified vehicles in stock.
• Hand controls, steering wheel spinners, and wheelchair lifts are the most common modifications, and most major companies can source them.
• Adaptation fees range from $50 to $200 per day on top of the standard rental rate, though some companies waive the fee for advance bookings.
• Specialty rental agencies that focus on adapted vehicles often have more options on-site and may offer lower fees than mainstream companies.
• You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card — the same documents required for any car rental.

Hand controls and steering modifications

Hand controls let you operate the gas and brake pedals using your hands instead of your feet. The accelerator and brake are mounted on a lever that extends from the steering column or floor, and you push or pull it with your hand. Most hand control systems are removable, so the car can be returned to standard operation when you are done. Steering wheel spinners (also called steering knobs) attach to the wheel and let you turn with one hand or with reduced grip strength.

Nearly all major rental companies — Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and National — can source hand controls if you request them. The fee is typically $75 to $150 per day. Some locations keep them in stock; others order from a local mobility equipment supplier and have them installed before your rental period begins. If you are renting for more than a few days, ask whether the company offers a discount for longer rentals with adaptations.

Wheelchair lifts and vehicle access

A wheelchair lift is a mechanical platform that lowers from the side or rear of a vehicle, allowing you to drive your wheelchair directly into the car. The lift then raises, securing your chair in place. Vans are the most common vehicles equipped with lifts because they have the space and weight capacity. Some rental companies stock one or two lift-equipped vans at larger locations; others can order them from a partner company within a few days.

Wheelchair lift rentals cost more than hand controls — typically $150 to $250 per day — because the vehicle itself is more expensive and the modification is permanent. You will need to book well in advance, especially if you are renting during peak travel season. When you call, describe your wheelchair's dimensions and weight so the company can confirm the lift will accommodate it. Ask whether the lift is manual or powered; powered lifts are easier to operate but are less common in rental fleets.

Specialty rental agencies for adapted vehicles

Some rental companies focus exclusively on vehicles with disabilities in mind. These agencies typically keep adapted cars and vans on-site, so you do not have to wait for installation. Examples include Wheelchair Getaways, which operates in multiple states and rents wheelchair-accessible vans, and some local mobility rental services in larger cities. These companies often have staff trained in explaining how the adaptations work and troubleshooting problems during your rental.

Specialty agencies may charge more per day than mainstream companies, but the fees are sometimes lower when you factor in the adaptation cost. They also tend to have more variety — multiple lift types, different hand control configurations, and vehicles in various sizes. If you are renting in a major city or near a tourist area, search online for "wheelchair accessible car rental" or "adapted vehicle rental" plus your location to find local options. Call several companies to compare prices and availability before you book.

How to book and what to tell the rental company

Call the rental company directly rather than booking online, because the reservation system cannot capture your adaptation needs. When you call, have this information ready: the type of adaptation you need (hand controls, lift, spinner, etc.), the dates and location of your rental, and your vehicle preference (sedan, van, SUV). Tell them your wheelchair dimensions and weight if you need a lift. Ask whether they have the adaptation in stock or need to order it, and confirm the total cost including the adaptation fee.

Request a confirmation number and ask the company to note your adaptation request in the reservation. Call again two days before your rental to confirm the vehicle and adaptation are ready. When you arrive, inspect the adaptation before you drive away — test the hand controls, operate the lift, or check the spinner. If something does not work or feels unsafe, tell the rental agent immediately so they can address it or provide a different vehicle.

Insurance and liability for adapted vehicles

Your personal auto insurance may not cover a rental car, and rental company insurance does not always cover damage to the adaptation itself. Before you rent, call your insurance company and ask whether your policy covers rental vehicles. If it does, ask whether adaptations are included. If your policy does not cover rentals, the rental company will offer you a damage waiver — usually $15 to $30 per day — that covers the car and the adaptation.

Read the rental agreement carefully, especially the section on what damage is your responsibility. Some companies charge you for any damage to the adaptation, even minor wear. Others include normal wear and tear in the rental fee. If you are unsure, ask the agent to clarify before you sign. Take photos of the vehicle and adaptation before you leave the lot, so you have proof of its condition if a dispute arises later.

Renting across state lines and at airports

Airport rental locations are often busier and less likely to have adapted vehicles in stock, so book even further in advance if you are renting at an airport. Call the specific airport location, not the company's general number, because each location manages its own inventory. Some airports have a separate counter for specialty requests; ask whether yours does.

If you are renting in one state and returning in another, tell the company at the time of booking. Some adaptations cannot leave the state where they were installed, and some companies charge a higher fee for out-of-state returns. Confirm the return location and any additional fees before you finalize your reservation. If you are traveling a long distance, ask whether the company offers a one-way rental with adapted vehicles, or whether you will need to return to the original location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the rental company does not have my adaptation available?

Ask how long it takes to source the adaptation and whether you can delay your rental start date. If the delay does not work for you, ask for a referral to another company in the area that might have it in stock. Some companies will waive the adaptation fee if they cannot provide it on time, though this is not may provide — ask.

Can I rent an adapted vehicle for a one-way trip?

Some companies offer one-way rentals with adaptations, but availability varies by location and adaptation type. Call ahead and ask. One-way rentals with adaptations usually cost more than round-trip rentals because the company has to transport the vehicle back to its home location.

Do I need a special driver's license to rent a car with hand controls?

No, a standard driver's license is sufficient. However, some states require a notation on your license if you use hand controls. Check your state's rules before you rent, and bring any documentation the rental company requests. The company may ask you to demonstrate that you can operate the hand controls safely before you leave the lot.

What happens if the adaptation breaks during my rental?

Contact the rental company immediately. If the adaptation fails and you cannot drive safely, they should provide a replacement vehicle or arrange a tow. Do not attempt to repair it yourself. Document the problem with photos and get a written statement from the rental agent about what happened, in case there is a dispute about who pays for the repair.

Are there rental companies that specialize in specific disabilities?

Most major rental companies serve people with various disabilities and can source common adaptations. Specialty agencies like Wheelchair Getaways focus on wheelchair accessibility. For other disabilities — deaf drivers, drivers with low vision, or drivers with cognitive disabilities — call mainstream companies and describe your specific needs; they may have options you are not aware of.