For many, renting a car is synonymous with presenting a credit card at the rental counter. It’s a common practice, but what if you prefer to use a debit card, or simply don’t have a credit card? The good news is that renting a car without a credit card is absolutely possible. Many reputable car rental agencies do accept debit cards, offering you flexibility in payment options. However, each company has its own specific policies and requirements when it comes to debit card rentals. Navigating these policies can feel overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a straightforward guide to help you understand Which Rental Car Agencies Accept Debit Cards and what you need to know to ensure a smooth and stress-free rental experience.
Avis Car Rental Debit Card Policy
Avis is known for having a relatively straightforward debit card policy compared to some other rental companies. They generally accept debit cards, making the rental process accessible to a wider range of customers. In some instances, and at certain locations, Avis might even accept prepaid debit or gift cards when you return your vehicle. However, it’s crucial to contact your specific Avis rental location directly to confirm their exact debit card policies, as these can vary.
Keep in mind these general guidelines for Avis debit card rentals:
- Age Requirement: Renters must be 25 years of age or older (though the age drops to 18 in New York).
- Sufficient Funds: Your Visa or Mastercard debit card must have enough available funds to cover the rental cost and any security hold they may place on your account at the time of pick-up.
- Premium Vehicles: Be aware that credit card payment may be required for certain premium or specialty vehicles.
- Accepted Cards: Avis generally accepts Avis Charge Cards, American Express, AT&T Capital, China Union Pay, Diners Club International, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, and Visa credit cards.
Avis car rental signage at an airport, indicating car rental services are available.
Budget Car Rental Debit Card Policy
If you’re on a budget and wondering, “Can I rent a car with a debit card at Budget?”, the answer is often yes. Budget typically accepts debit cards, alongside credit cards and even cash when you return the rental car. However, debit card acceptance at the time of vehicle pick-up is location-dependent. This means that while some Budget locations will readily accept your debit card when you collect your car, others might have stricter policies.
To avoid any surprises, it’s highly recommended to call your intended Budget rental location in advance to clarify their specific debit card payment policies. Direct communication with the rental office will ensure a hassle-free pick-up experience.
Dollar Debit Card Policy
Dollar Car Rental distinguishes itself as a customer-friendly agency that readily accepts debit card payments. They’ve streamlined their policy to make debit card rentals easier. If you book your rental at least 24 hours in advance, all you generally need is your debit card and driver’s license to pay when you pick up your vehicle. This makes Dollar a convenient option for those specifically searching for car rental agencies that accept debit cards without extra hurdles.
Even if you need a last-minute rental and haven’t booked 24 hours ahead, you can still use a debit card at Dollar. In these situations, you’ll typically need to provide an additional form of identification beyond your driver’s license, and a return travel ticket (such as an airline or cruise ticket) with an itinerary that aligns with your rental dates.
Dollar is also notable as one of the few major car rental companies that still accepts cash payments. However, if you plan to pay with cash, you need to pre-qualify for a Cash Deposit Identification Card well in advance. The application process for this card can take around 30 days and involves a $30 fee to cover the cost of a credit check.
For credit card users, Dollar accepts a wide range of major credit cards, including American Express, MasterCard, Carte Blanche, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, Visa, and China Union Pay. Dollar payment policy.
Enterprise Debit Card Policy
Enterprise generally accepts debit cards, particularly at their airport rental locations, which is convenient for travelers arriving by air. To rent with a debit card at an Enterprise airport location, you’ll typically need to present your debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Discover) and provide proof of an outgoing flight from the same airport where you intend to return the car. This policy is designed to ensure the vehicle’s return and is a common practice among airport car rental agencies.
However, Enterprise’s debit card policy becomes more nuanced for rentals at non-airport locations, and these policies can vary significantly from location to location. Non-airport locations may require additional documentation, such as proof of insurance, recent utility bills in your name, or even personal references. The specific requirements are determined by the individual local office.
To get a clear picture of the debit card policy at a specific non-airport Enterprise location, it’s essential to contact that location directly. They can provide you with the precise details and any necessary documentation for renting a car with a debit card at their branch.
Enterprise does not accept cash payments but does accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCP (Japan Credit Bureau). Enterprise payment policy.
Hertz Debit Card Policy
Hertz has a slightly different approach to debit card acceptance. While Hertz does accept Visa or Mastercard debit cards for final payment when you return your rental vehicle, they typically require a credit card for the security deposit at the time of pick-up. This means that to rent a car from Hertz, you generally need a credit card to initiate the rental, even if you plan to pay with a debit card later.
Payment options for the security deposit at Hertz include Hertz Charge Card, American Express, Visa, Mastercard, or Diners Club card. Hertz generally only accepts cash payments in limited circumstances, such as when the rental is booked through an insurance company. Hertz payment policy.
This article is part of our Car Rental Guide. Planning a rental and have more questions? We can help! Discover how to rent a car in our comprehensive guide.
See the guide
