Can I rent a car with a debit card? What you must know

If you want to rent a car or have rented in the past, you already know most rental companies require a credit card in the renter’s name at the moment of pick-up. However, not everyone has a credit card in their name. What can you do if that’s your case?

Renting a car with a debit card has become more common, but it still isn’t as simple as paying with a credit card. While many major rental companies now allow it, each one has its own rules about deposits, documentation, and eligibility. Understanding these details before you arrive at the counter can save you time, stress, and even a denied reservation.

In this updated 2025 guide, you’ll learn exactly how renting with a debit card works, what you’ll need, and which companies currently accept it, plus tips to make the process smoother.

Can I rent a car with a debit card?

Yes, you can, but it depends on the company, the location, and the type of car you want to rent. Some locations make it fairly easy if you meet specific conditions, while others only allow debit cards for certain vehicle classes or at neighborhood branches instead of airports.

The key difference between a debit and a credit card lies in how the rental company secures the vehicle. With a credit card, the company can place a hold for potential charges without actually withdrawing funds. With a debit card, the same amount is taken directly from your account, reducing your available balance. Because that increases risk for the company, they often require extra verification steps or higher deposits.

What forms of payment are accepted for renting a car?

• Credit Cards;
• Debit/check;
• Cards Gift;
• Cards Cash.

Why do rental companies prefer credit cards?

Rental companies prefer credit cards for one simple reason: risk management. When they let you rent with a debit card, they lose some control over post-rental charges, such as tolls, parking tickets, or damage fees that appear later.

Credit cards also provide built-in rental protections, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or theft coverage, while debit cards typically do not. As a result, if you pay with a debit card, you may be asked for:

• Proof of insurance or an additional protection plan.
• Two forms of ID or proof of address (for example, a recent utility bill).
• A return travel ticket (especially at airport locations).
• A higher deposit — sometimes $300 to $500 held for several days after you return the car.
• Agreement to a soft credit check for verification.

These requirements help the company confirm your identity and ensure you can cover any additional charges.

Better rental car insurance

Many credit cards offer additional benefits, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft protection, providing a layer of financial security during the rental period. These perks can save you from having to purchase expensive insurance coverage from the rental agency. However, for those without a credit card, it becomes crucial to explore alternative insurance options to ensure adequate coverage and peace of mind while on the road.

Higher rental car rewards program status

Credit cards often come with built-in perks that grant users elevated status in these programs, translating to benefits like complimentary upgrades, faster booking processes, and priority service. This elevated status not only enhances the overall rental experience but can also lead to cost savings and added convenience, making a credit card a valuable tool for those looking to maximize their benefits while hitting the road.

More reward points or miles for travel purchases

Some credit cards offer enticing rewards programs, allowing you to earn points or miles with each rental transaction. These rewards can be redeemed for various travel benefits, including discounted or free rental days, upgrades, or even complimentary travel expenses. By using a credit card for your car rental, you not only secure a convenient payment method but also open the door to valuable travel incentives that can enhance your overall experience.

How to rent a car with a debit card?

If you plan to use a debit card, make sure it’s a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card with your name printed on it. Prepaid or reloadable cards are rarely accepted. Check that your account has enough funds to cover both the rental cost and the temporary hold for the security deposit, which could take up to 10 business days to be released by your bank.

For the best experience, book directly on the company’s official website, call the branch where you’ll pick up the car, and confirm its specific debit card policy. Even within the same brand, rules can vary between airport and downtown locations.

Major car rental companies that accept debit cards

Dollar

Dollar accepts debit cards with Visa, Mastercard, or Discover logos, but you’ll need to show a ticketed return flight if renting at an airport. The hold on your account will include the rental amount plus up to $500 as a security deposit.

Only cars from Compact through Full-Size categories are available to debit card renters, and you must present two valid IDs, typically your driver’s license and another form such as a passport or utility bill. Members of the Dollar Express program may enjoy faster approval since their payment method is already verified.

Budget

Budget allows debit cards for customers aged 25 or older (or 18 in New York). At pickup, they’ll place a hold for the estimated rental charges, which can vary by location. Some airport branches also require proof of a return flight.

It’s important to check each office’s rules before arrival because not all Budget locations accept debit cards at pickup, some allow them only for the final payment when returning the vehicle.

Avis

Avis accepts debit cards bearing the Visa or Mastercard logo for most standard rentals in the U.S. However, luxury, premium, or specialty vehicles often require a credit card. Debit card rentals may trigger a creditworthiness check, and a temporary hold will be placed on your account.

The hold amount equals your estimated rental cost plus an additional buffer. If you pay with a debit card, the release of held funds depends on your bank and may take several business days after you return the vehicle.

Hertz

Hertz accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Discover debit cards, provided the reservation is made at least 24 hours in advance. A return travel ticket is mandatory for airport rentals.

The deposit can reach $500 above your rental cost, and Hertz limits debit payments to vehicle classes up to full-size. Local branches may deny debit cards for high-value or one-way rentals. Always confirm directly with the branch you’ll be using.

Thrifty

Thrifty’s debit policy closely mirrors Dollar’s (both share ownership). They allow debit cards for non-luxury cars and apply a hold of the rental total plus $500. Airport renters must present a confirmed return itinerary and two forms of ID. Thrifty Blue Chip members who pre-registered a debit card may be exempt from some conditions.

Enterprise, Alamo, and National

These three brands (all owned by Enterprise Holdings) have similar policies. They accept Visa, Mastercard, or Discover debit cards in most U.S. locations. Airport rentals typically require a return ticket, and your driver’s license address must match your current residence.

Only your spouse or domestic partner can be added as an extra driver when paying with debit. Premium or luxury vehicles are excluded from debit card rentals.

Sixt

Sixt maintains the most restrictive approach. While they do accept debit cards for certain vehicle classes, luxury, specialty, or convertible models cannot be rented without a credit card. In airports, you’ll need a confirmed round-trip itinerary and at least two government-issued IDs.

Local customers renting from city branches must show a recent utility bill (within 30 days) that matches their driver’s license. International Sixt locations may have even stricter rules.

Tips for renting a car with a debit card

Arrive prepared: bring extra identification, confirm your reservation in advance, and have funds ready to cover both the rental cost and the hold. Always ask when the deposit will be released and keep your receipts and return documentation. If possible, consider purchasing additional coverage, many credit cards include it automatically, but debit cards don’t. That small investment can protect you from costly surprises later.

As an extra tip, remember that not all rental locations may accept payment with debit cards or follow the same rules. The best option is to check directly with the car rental locations to check if they have any special conditions in addition to the ones we’ve discussed above.

Conclusion

In 2025, you don’t need a credit card to rent a car, but using a debit card demands more preparation. Every major company now has a pathway for debit users, yet the conditions differ, from return flight requirements to limits on which vehicles you can choose. If you meet these requirements and confirm the rules beforehand, renting with a debit card can be as smooth as using credit.

But if convenience, flexibility, and quicker deposit releases matter most, using a credit card for the hold and paying later with a debit card remains the easiest route. Whichever you choose, always check the Terms and Conditions of your specific rental branch.

With the right planning and Rentcars, you can compare companies, policies, and payment options in one place, making your car rental easier and more secure.