Originally Posted by AutoSlash

The answer is that it depends and that the rules may vary by company. Let's take Hertz as an example:

There are two types of additional drivers as it pertains to Hertz locations in the state of CA:
.

• Authorized Operators
• Additional Authorized Operators

Authorized Operators are the employer, employee or fellow employee of renter on company business, (when booking includes company Corporate Discount Number), or the renter's spouse. Authorized Operators do not have to be present at time of rental.

Additional Authorized Operators (AAOs) are individuals not automatically covered on the rental agreement as Authorized Operators (noted above). AAOs must be present and may be signed on to the rental agreement at the time of rental or during the rental at any US corporate location.