Can I Rent a Car With a New York Conditional License?

Because a New York conditional driver's license is only issued to those convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI), it is unlikely that you will find an agency that is willing to rent a car to you.

Rental Policy

  • Most rental agencies will refuse to rent to anyone who has been convicted of a DWI in the last one to three years.

Insurance

  • Even if you find a rental agency that will rent to you, you will probably be forced to provide your own insurance. The agency is unlikely to be willing to accept the potential liability.

Limitations

  • With a conditional license, you will not be able to use a car for recreational purposes, limiting the circumstances under which a rental car can be used.

Another Driver

  • If you have another person with a clean driving record drive the car, most rental agencies will let you pay for the rental car.

Alternatives

  • Talk to someone at New York State's Drinking Driver Program. They may know of alternative solutions to your dilemma.