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When most of us rent a vehicle, we use a credit card that offers bonus points and primary rental car coverage. However, not everyone has a credit card in their wallet or sometimes emergencies happen that leave us without a credit card. If you find yourself in one of these situations, you can breathe a sigh of relief because you can rent a car without a credit card.
You’ll face a few hurdles -- additional ID requirements, limitations on the cars you can book and even a credit check -- but it is possible. Here’s everything you need to know about renting a car without a credit card.
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Rental car companies that accept debit cards
Most of the major rental car companies will accept debit cards in place of a credit card. There are a few caveats to be aware of. For starters, many of them require you to be at least 25 years old and will run a credit check before allowing you to rent a car. Companies such as Avis also restrict the type of vehicle you can rent, with high-end options being off limits. Be sure to check the individual rental company requirements before booking with a debit card.
Related: Renting a car? These are the cards you need to get now
Alamo
Alamo accepts debit cards at airport rental counters if you provide proof of return travel and agree to pay a $200 refundable deposit.
Avis
Avis has quite a few restrictions when it comes to renting a car with a debit card. While you can pay for the rental with a debit card, some locations will still require you to present a credit card to secure a rental. For example, Avis locations in the Tri-State area, Philadelphia, Mississippi, Louisiana and Hartford, CT do not accept debit cards. Other restrictions include the following:
- Renters must be at least 25 years old
- Credit check required
- No rentals from the Avis Select Series
Related: Your points, miles and loyalty guide to Avis
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Budget
Budget accepts debit cards for reservation if you’re at least 25 years old. There are some locations that won’t allow debit payment, so be sure to confirm this ahead of time. As with other rental agencies, you’ll need to account for a refundable security deposit of at least $100 when paying with your debit card.
Dollar
Dollar car rental has slightly more lax rules for renting a car without a credit card. You won’t undergo a credit check and the company accepts debit cards for non-premium or luxury rentals as long as you book your car 24 hours before pick-up. However, you can get around this requirement by presenting a valid ID and proof of return travel. Just keep in mind that you will be charged the entire cost of your rental upfront, along with a $200 deposit.
Enterprise
Enterprise allows you to rent a car with a debit card at airport locations, assuming you have proof of return travel and are able to cover the entire cost -- plus a $200 deposit. You won’t be able to add additional drivers, although your spouse or partner is allowed to drive the vehicle.
At non-airport locations, you’ll face some stringent requirements if you’re paying with a debit card. For starters, not all locations accept debit cards; and the ones that do may ask for copies of your utility bills, a recent paystub, proof of insurance and references. You’ll also need to pay the full cost of the rental, along with a deposit that can take up to 20 days to refund.
Hertz
Hertz allows you to rent a car with your debit card if it’s saved to your profile. The rental location may also run a credit check. At airport locations, you’ll also need to provide two forms of valid ID and proof of return travel. If you don’t meet this criteria, you can still pay for your rental with a debit card if you present a credit card at check-in. Considering Hertz charges a deposit ranging from $900-$2,000, it’s probably best that these funds aren’t (temporarily) coming out of your checking account.
National Car Rental
National only accepts debit cards for rentals made at airport locations and only if you’re able to provide proof of return travel. A $200 deposit will be required, along with the cost of the entire rental. When renting with a debit card, National won’t allow you to add additional drivers to the reservation, which can be an inconvenience if you’re taking a long road trip.
Related: Your points, miles and loyalty guide to National Car Rental
Sixt
Sixt accepts debit cards for car rentals under 28 days if you choose the “Pay Later” option during booking and present two forms of ID. If you’re a non-local, you won’t be able to rent premium and luxury cars and you must provide proof of return travel at airport locations. If you’re a local renter, Sixts requires you to present a copy of a recent utility bill that matches the information on your driver’s license.
Thrifty Car Rental
Like Avis, Thrifty accepts debit cards if you book your reservation at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll need two forms of ID, proof of travel plans and a $200 refundable deposit plus the entire rental cost. If you’re a member of Thrifty’s Blue Chip rewards program, the $200 deposit is waived, assuming you’ve added your debit card to your online profile.
Related: Rental car promotions that will save you money
rent a car with a prepaid card
Enterprise and Hertz both allow you to use a prepaid card to pay for your rental car. Some Enterprise locations accept cash and money orders for final payments only, while others allow you to secure a rental this way. Hertz accepts prepaid cards for final payment only. You still need to provide a credit or debit card at check-in to secure your rental. Keep in mind that this may not work abroad, where prepaid card acceptance is extremely limited.
Related: How AutoSlash can save you up to 77% on car rentals
FAQ
Which rental car company does not require a credit card?
Most of the major rental car companies allow you to book and pay for your rental car without a credit card. Accepted payment methods include debit cards, while a few will allow cash and money orders for payment. All of the following accept debit cards:
- Alamo
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- National
- Sixt
- Thrifty
Related: 9 rental car rewards programs you need to know about
Can you use a prepaid card to book a rental car?
Some rental car companies accept prepaid cards. Hertz accepts prepaid cards for final payments only while some Enterprise locations allow you to secure a rental car booking this way.
Related: 10 best ways to redeem your points and miles for a car rental
Can I use cash for a rental car?
A few rental car companies allow you to pay with cash, though you’ll still need a debit or credit card to make the reservation. Some Enterprise locations allow you to do this and Dollar accepts cash for car rentals in most states if you’re at least 20 years old, complete the Cash Deposit ID Card application and pay a $15 processing fee. It can take 30 days to process this application, so you’ll want to plan way in advance if you’re choosing this option.
Should you use a debit card to rent a car?
While you can use a debit card to rent a car, there are some significant trade-offs. For starters, you’ll often be liable for a security deposit that may take a few weeks to be refunded. You will also undergo a credit check in some instances and be required to provide at least two forms of ID.
Most importantly, you’ll forego primary rental coverage, which is something you normally have to pay for but you get as a benefit with a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. If you decide not to and end up in an accident, you’ll have to process the claim through your own insurance and risk a higher premium. This trade-off is not worthwhile. I wouldn’t recommend renting a car with a debit card unless it’s your only option.
Related: Tuesday Travel Tip: The top 3 easiest ways to save on rental cars
Bottom line
Renting a car without a credit card is possible, although you’ll forego important protections and deal with a few hassles. If you’re traveling domestically, for example, you may not always have two forms of government ID on hand. If you’re booking an expensive rental, you’ll need to contend with having the entire cost plus a security deposit withdrawn from your checking account. Lastly, you won’t receive the protections that come with credit cards, which can save you time, money and a lot of trouble if you’re involved in an accident while driving the rental vehicle.
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
FAQs
What do I need to rent a car if I don't have a credit card? ›
The top answer to how to rent a car without a credit card is using a bank-issued debit card. Most rental car companies accept major debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and (less often) American Express. Offer your debit card to pay at one of the rental car companies that accept debit cards (listed below).
Can I use my boyfriend's credit card to rent a car? ›CAN I PAY FOR THE RENTAL OF A CAR FOR ANOTHER INDIVIDUAL? The renter of the vehicle must be present to sign the rental agreement and provide their credit card at the time of pick up. The renter cannot provide a credit or debit card belonging to someone else for their use.
Can I rent a car without a credit card with my name on it? ›Most of the major rental car companies allow you to book and pay for your rental car without a credit card. Accepted payment methods include debit cards, while a few will allow cash and money orders for payment.
Can I rent a car with a debit card and not a credit card? ›The short answer is yes, you can rent a car with a debit card. Major rental car companies—including Avis, Budget, Enterprise and Hertz—all permit rentals on a debit card.
Does Hertz require credit card? ›Although Hertz accepts Visa or Mastercard debit cards when you return your rental, you must have a credit card when you pick up your car in order to put down a security deposit.
Can I rent a car with a prepaid debit card? ›Yes, you can typically use a debit card, a prepaid card or even cash to rent a car. However, each rental company has its own rules about acceptable payment options – which often vary by location – and not paying by credit card often carries certain ramifications.
How much does Hertz hold on credit card? ›When you book with Hertz, your card will be charged a hold of up to $200 plus estimated rental charges. That sum is frozen until your credit card company returns it. Be sure to cushion your available balance and budget wisely for your trip expenses.
Can I use a debit card at Hertz? ›Your debit card is now welcome at Hertz.
We welcome debit cards across all our locations.
No, you cannot rent a car for someone else. The person who has reserved the rental is the one who needs to pick it up. However, you may be able to add a driver onto your rental contract. Avis requires the additional driver to sign a form before allowing them to drive the rented vehicle, and there may be added fees.
Why can't you use a debit card to rent a car? ›Why Rental Car Companies Avoid Debit Cards. Many rental car companies prefer not to let customers use debit cards because it increases the risk they take on when renting to you. Unlike a credit card, a debit card only has as much money on it as you put in your bank account.
Which rental car companies allow you to use a debit card? ›
- Enterprise. Debit cards are accepted in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada (non-airport locations only). ...
- Dollar. Dollar changed its debit card policy in 2019 to make it easier for customers to pay debit. ...
- Alamo. ...
- Avis. ...
- Budget. ...
- Sixt. ...
- National. ...
- Hertz.
Locations that do accept debit cards at time of rental will perform a credit check to determine and ensure credit worthiness before releasing the car to you.
Which rental car companies allow you to use a debit card without a credit check? ›- Alamo. In addition to the usual credit cards, Alamo also accepts debit cards and good old fashioned cash to rent a car (prepaid cards are not accepted). ...
- Avis. ...
- Budget. ...
- Dollar. ...
- Enterprise. ...
- Hertz. ...
- National. ...
- Payless.
For example, the minimum debit hold is $100, and that hold amount usually applies to insurance replacement rentals or prepaid rentals. Be aware that a debit card hold limits the funds available in the attached account. The hold on the account will be removed after the car is returned and all fees are paid.
Does Avis require a deposit with credit card? ›There is no deposit to rent a car, but you may be subject to an authorization hold. When you select pay now instead of pay later, as your payment option, you must pass a credit authorization. Your card will be charged the amount of the rental plus a $250 minimum hold for credit and debit cards at the time of rental.
What is the easiest company to rent a car from? ›Who is the easiest car rental company? Enterprise and Hertz offer the easiest and fastest way to rent a car. With exceptional customer service, special pick-up and drop-off lanes for members, as well as dedicated phone lines, the two companies have streamlined the rental process for customers.
Why did Hertz charge me $100? ›If you light up in one of its rentals, you may be charged a $100 fee to cover the cost of vehicle cleaning.
Can you use a prepaid card for Hertz? ›Hertz will not accept debit cards or prepaid cash cards as a form of payment or guarantee at the time of reservation, or time of pickup. You must present a valid and accepted charge card mentioned above, at the beginning of the rental. Debit cards may be used for payment upon return.
Can I use my chime card to rent a car from Enterprise? ›Yes, you can rent a car with your Chime Credit Card. Just keep in mind that you need to have enough available credit to cover the hold the rental agency will put on your card.
Can you use a cash APP card at Enterprise? ›Cash App Pay is now accepted at enterprise retailers. A number of enterprise retailers are now taking a newly-available form of mobile e-commerce payment.
What payment methods does Hertz accept? ›
Payment options
Hertz accepts various payment methods such as; Credit Card, Hertz Charge Cards (HCC), Airplus and customers with a Hertz Gold Plus Rewards number. It's not necessary to enter the preferred Payment method when you make a booking.
Daily Rentals | ||
---|---|---|
Standard US Reward Chart Point values are per day (up to 4 days) | Standard Rewards Blackout Dates Apply | AnyDay Rewards No Blackout Dates Apply |
1 Free Rental Day | 950 Points | 1,900 Points |
2 Free Rental Days | 1,900 Points | 3,800 Points |
3 Free Rental Days | 2,850 Points | 5,700 Points |
Are the sale prices negotiable? We do not negotiate on pricing. All our cars are marked with a no-haggle price that is often below market value.
Is Hertz always unlimited mileage? ›Do all rental rates include unlimited mileage? The majority of rates include free unlimited mileage within the USAA/Hertz program; however, some rates include a mileage charge, or have a mileage cap plus a mileage charge when that cap is exceeded.
Do you pay for a rental car before or after Hertz? ›When you make a reservation, you might choose to simply provide your contact information and pay for the car at the counter when you pick up the car. Alternatively, you can opt for a prepaid, non-cancellable rental in which you pay up front in full when you make the reservation.
Does Turo accept debit cards? ›Verifying your payment card
To book a car on Turo, you must have a current, eligible payment card listed on your account. We accept credit and debit cards but don't accept prepaids cards, except for Revolut. When you request to book a trip, we send your payment card information to your bank.
If you use a credit card, you won't need proof of insurance, but you'll still need to purchase some level of insurance to rent the vehicle. There are several options for this. Rental company's car insurance: Car rental companies provide temporary car insurance that you can buy for the term of your rental.
What are the risks of renting a car? ›- Third Party Liability. Damaging someone else (bodily injury or property damage) and getting sued by the injured person. ...
- Theft if renter is careless. ...
- Collision/Loss for whatever reason. ...
- Personal Accident Medical Costs. ...
- Personal Effects Loss.
When renting accommodation many tenants rent directly from a landlord who owns the property. However, it's also possible to rent from another tenant who has rented the property from the owner. This is called subletting. Most tenants need their landlord's permission before they can sublet all or part of their home.
What is Avis preferred status? ›The Avis Preferred Program. Avis Preferred is a loyalty program offered by Avis car rentals. This program is revenue-based, so you will earn points based on how much you spend. Then you can use those points for free rentals, upgrades, and accessories.
Can I use a debit card to rent a car through Priceline? ›
Most locations accept debit cards, but some rental partners have different requirements. Some rental companies may allow a debit card to be used for the deposit at the rental counter, but may apply additional restrictions.
What is a car rental credit check? ›In most cases, rental car agencies that run a credit check are not looking for a magic number on a credit score but rather red flags such as delinquent lines of credit opened within the past several years. In a nutshell, they are trying to mitigate risk.
How quickly can I get a credit card from my bank? ›Most credit card issuers will send a new card in 10 to 14 days. If you request a special design, which some companies offer, it could take longer.
Is chime a prepaid card? ›Chime does not offer a prepaid debit card. However, Chime offers a full-featured deposit account that is a great alternative to prepaid cards. Your account can receive direct deposits, and it supports pre-authorized withdrawals and interbank transfers through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) Network.
What is Turo and how does it work? ›Vehicle owners list their cars with Turo, a company based in San Francisco, and renters can search the available vehicles in their area and rent them for daily prices set by the owners. Rentals can be booked online or through a phone app that allows direct communication between owners and renters.
Can you go into debt with a debit card? ›Can you get into debt through your debit card? Debit cards aren't designed for borrowing, but that doesn't mean you can't get into debt by using one. Making payments with your debit card uses funds from your own bank account, so you essentially aren't borrowing any money for the transaction.
Does Turo check your credit? ›Turo considers AIS when evaluating new guests in the US and Canada. Doing so helps us keep our platform safe and affordable for everyone. We receive AIS from the credit reporting agency TransUnion. TransUnion uses some elements of your credit report to come up with your AIS, which is not the same as a credit score.
Does Avis car rental do credit check? ›The renter must meet Avis' minimum criteria in order to rent. If Avis is unable to complete the credit check or if the location does not perform credit checks, the customer must be prepared to present additional identification.
What makes you fail a credit check? ›You have late or missed payments, defaults, or county court judgments in your credit history. These may indicate you've had trouble repaying debt in the past. You have an Individual Voluntary Agreement or Debt Management Plan. This might suggest that you can't afford any more debt at the moment.
Do you need a credit card to rent a car from Orbitz? ›Yes. If you're a US resident, you'll need to present a valid driving license as well as a credit card in your name.
Do you need to have a credit card to rent a car or check in to a hotel? ›
You need to have a credit card to rent a car or check in to a hotel. It is okay to use a credit card if you pay it off every month. Teens are a huge target of credit card companies today. Co-signing a loan is a good way to help a friend or relative.
Does payless car rental do credit checks? ›If you use a debit card at a location that accepts them, we will perform a credit check to ensure credit worthiness before releasing the car and you must also present a second form of current identification. If you fail to pass the credit check, you will not be able to rent the car.
Can you use someone else's credit card to rent a car? ›CAN I PAY FOR THE RENTAL OF A CAR FOR ANOTHER INDIVIDUAL? The renter of the vehicle must be present to sign the rental agreement and provide their credit card at the time of pick up. The renter cannot provide a credit or debit card belonging to someone else for their use.
Does Hertz require a credit card? ›Credit Qualifications/Requirements: To qualify to rent the Hertz vehicle, the renter must present at the time of rental a current driver's license and valid major credit card or debit card (see Debit Card Usage below) in the renter's own name with available credit.
Can I rent a car with a debit card Hertz? ›Hertz Debit Card Policy
Although Hertz accepts Visa or Mastercard debit cards when you return your rental, you must have a credit card when you pick up your car in order to put down a security deposit.
This is why people prefer loans instead of credit cards. Technically speaking, if you can find a personal lender that will give you a car loan without a credit history at a good interest rate, then you don't really need a credit card. This is because they will not need your credit card history to give you that loan.
What car company does not require credit card? ›- Alamo.
- Avis.
- Budget.
- Dollar.
- Enterprise.
- Hertz.
- National.
- Get a Cosigner. If you have a family member or friend with a great credit history who is willing to cosign your loan application, that can help you get approved with a lower rate. ...
- Make a Large Down Payment. ...
- Apply for a No-Credit Auto Loan.
The answer is: yes! While the process will be a little more complicated than financing with an established credit score or a good credit score, Kennesaw drivers with no credit history or bad credit can finance a vehicle.