Wellesley Inn & SuitesHotel policies, rooms and travel, explained for guests

How Old Do You Have To Be To Get a Hotel Room in Missouri?

Policies · By The Wellesley Inn & Suites Team · 5 min read

hotel clerk and young customer talking - featured image
Contents

hotel clerk and young customer talking - featured image

If you’re wondering how old do you have to be to get a hotel room in Missouri, most hotels require you to be at least 18 to book and stay without an adult. Some properties set the minimum at 21.

Missouri law doesn’t set one hotel age, but it does let hotels require a parent to accept liability for a guest under 18.

Some hotels might have their own age rules or require a credit card for check-in. Knowing the age requirements ahead of time can save you from any surprises during your trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Most hotels require you to be 18 or older to book a room in Missouri by yourself.
  • Hotel policies can sometimes add extra rules beyond state law.
  • Checking age and payment requirements helps ensure a smooth hotel stay.

A person at a hotel front desk checking in and showing identification

You need to meet certain age rules and have the right ID to book a hotel room in Missouri. These rules can change depending on the hotel and your situation.

Minimum Age to Rent a Hotel Room

In Missouri, the minimum age to rent a hotel room is generally 18 years old. IHG says most of its US hotels use 18 as the minimum to check in without an adult. Some hotels set a higher minimum, like 21.

If you are under 18, you usually cannot rent a room alone. You will need an adult to book or stay with you. It’s important to check the hotel’s policy before you book to avoid issues at check-in.

Exceptions and Special Circumstances

Some hotels make exceptions if you are under 18 but have a parent or guardian with you.

Missouri law addresses this directly. Under Missouri Revised Statutes section 315.069, a hotel may require the parent or guardian of a guest under 18 to accept written liability for room charges and any damage.

The parent must then either authorize charges to a credit card the minor uses or pay in advance plus a damage deposit. Hotels are allowed to require this, not required to accept minors, so contact the hotel directly.

Identification and Documentation Needed

You must show a valid photo ID to book and check into a hotel in Missouri. Acceptable IDs include a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport.

Hotels may also require a credit card for incidentals. Without a proper ID, you may be denied the room.

Hotel Policies Affecting Age Restrictions

Front desk in a hotel lobby

Photo by prayitno, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Age rules for booking hotel rooms vary by brand and type of hotel. Some places set firm age limits, while others may allow younger guests if an adult signs for the room. Knowing these differences helps you plan your stay better.

Motel 6 and Chain-Specific Policies

Motel 6 usually requires guests to be at least 18 years old to book a room, though some locations set a higher age. The 18 floor matches the age at which guests can sign a binding rental agreement.

Major hotel chains often have similar rules, but individual properties may raise the minimum age to 21. Always check the hotel’s website or call ahead to confirm.

Independent Hotels and Boutique Accommodations

Independent hotels and boutique spots may have their own age rules. Many require guests to be 18 or older, but some might accept younger guests if a parent or guardian is present.

Their rules often depend on the owner or manager, so ask about age limits before making a reservation.

If you are under 18, some hotels allow booking with a parent or legal guardian’s consent. In Missouri, that usually means the adult signs for charges and damage under section 315.069, as described above.

Many hotels simply won’t rent to a minor alone, so check the hotel’s specific rules first.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age requirement to check in at hotels in Missouri?

Most hotels in Missouri set the minimum check-in age at 18. Some properties require guests to be 21.

Are there hotels in Missouri that allow 18-year-olds to check in?

Yes, many hotels in Missouri allow 18-year-olds to check in. Check the property’s policy page or call the hotel directly to verify.

What identification do I need to book a hotel room in Missouri if I am 18?

If you are 18 years old, you will need to present a valid government-issued ID at check-in to verify your age. Many hotels also want a card for incidentals.

Card issuers generally can’t open a credit card for anyone under 21 without independent income or a co-signer, so ask whether a debit card works.

Can I book a hotel room in Missouri without a credit card?

Many hotels require a credit card at the time of booking or check-in for incidentals. However, some may offer alternatives for those without a credit card, so it is best to check with the specific hotel.

What are some alternatives to hotels for 18-year-olds in Missouri?

Alternatives to hotels for 18-year-olds include Airbnb rentals, hostels, and vacation rentals. Airbnb’s Terms of Service allow anyone 18 or older to register, though hosts can set higher minimums.

Are there any exceptions to the minimum check-in age at hotels?

Some hotels make exceptions, most often when a parent or guardian accepts responsibility for the room. Always check with the hotel for their specific policies.

How can I find hotels near me that allow 18-year-olds to check in?

Booking sites rarely let you filter by check-in age. Check each property’s policy section or call the front desk before you book.

What should I do if I am looking to book a hotel as an 18-year-old and cannot find any options?

If you are having trouble finding hotels that allow 18-year-olds, consider calling hotels directly to inquire about their policies or look for alternative accommodations like Airbnb.

Do hotels for 18-year-olds have different amenities compared to standard hotels?

No. Hotels that accept 18-year-olds are ordinary hotels with a lower age policy. It’s a good idea to read reviews and check the hotel’s website for a list of amenities before booking.

Sources

More in Policies