How to Rent a Car Without a Credit Card?

It’s become the expected standard to finance big purchases using a credit card. That said, a credit card isn’t mandatory for renting a car, which is good news if you’ve misplaced your card or simply don’t have one in your wallet. 

Read on to learn more about how you can rent a car without a credit card, the benefits of doing so, and a list of car rental companies that don’t require a credit card to do business with them. 

Can you rent a car without a credit card?

Yes, you can rent a car without a credit card. It can be a bit more challenging since you usually need to show a few forms of personal identification before you're approved, but it’s still possible. 

There may be limitations on the type of vehicle you can reserve, the level of protection you receive in case of car damage, and pricing deals. 

Third, make sure you have a valid driver’s license before you look for a rental car. 

How to rent a car without a credit card?

Outlined below are some steps you can take to rent a card if you don’t have a credit card.  

Step 1: Rent with a debit card. The majority of rental car companies will accept a debit card in place of a credit card. However, you must be at least 25 years of age, and the more luxurious car rental options are typically off-limits. 

Step 2: Be prepared for credit checks. Extending step one, rental companies will make an inquiry into your credit report. Companies want some form of reassurance that you can look after their investment. 

Step 3: Pay in cash. Alongside a debit card or a prepaid card, a cash rental is another rental process for you to keep in mind, though few companies actually accept this form of payment. A cash deposit will likely be required, so you’ll need to have some cash on hand ahead of time. 

Step 4: Prove your identity. Documents used for identity verification can include proof of insurance forms, a driver’s license, or even a current banking statement.

Step 5: Prepare for holds. Having a hold placed on your card isn’t uncommon; hotels also do this to ensure that you reserve enough money to pay for their services. They act like security deposits, too, meaning they’re authorized to keep the money if damages occur. As the renter, you’re responsible for returning the car safely. The hold will expire, and you’ll receive your money back once you return the car. 

The main benefit of renting a car with a debit card

Although most professionals recommend that you use a credit card to rent a car, there is one significant benefit associated with renting a car using a debit card instead: You won’t have to worry about being charged any interest. You’ll save a decent amount of money without worrying about compounding fees. In other words, the price charged by the company for booking the vehicle is the actual and final price — no more, no less.  

Just make sure you have the required funds to pay for the rental. 

5 car companies that don't require a credit card 

It’s wise to explore your options before committing to a particular business. There are many car rental agencies out there, but not all of them readily accept alternative payment options. Available rental agreements often depend on the pickup location; you’re likely to have more options at airports or travel destinations.

To narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of five major car rental companies with flexible payment means. 

One: Enterprise. Debit cards are recognized at Enterprise’s airport stands. You must show proof of your return trip home, pay a $200 deposit, and prove that you can cover the entire cost of the rental duration. 

Non-airport locations are a bit different. While most Enterprise sites take debit cards, not all of them do. Supplementary documents are more likely required, too, like references, copies of your current utility bills, or your most recent paycheck. 

Two: National. National airport stands are the only places where this company accepts debit cards. An initial payment of $200 is mandatory, and you can’t add any extra drivers.  

Three: Avis. Only some Avis locations take debit cards, and they come with limitations. Again, you must be at least 25 years old, there’s a mandatory credit check, and you may need a credit card to secure the rental regardless. 

Four: Alamo. Like Hertz, Alamo accepts debit cards for payment at airport locations, but you must provide proof of your return trip and pay an upfront deposit of $200. The down payment is refundable.  

Five: Hertz. There are extra conditions on a Hertz rental if you pay with a debit card. But even if you don’t qualify in all these areas, you can pay with a debit card if you can provide a credit card when you first pick up the car. You must show two forms of identification, and deposits range from $900 to $2,000. Make sure you have the available funds for the deposit.

Point's contributions

Having the right banking card is essential in getting the most out of all your purchases. If you don’t have a credit card or don’t wish to have one, there are other card types out there that you can apply for that offer similar, if not identical, perks and protections for various situations, such as renting a car.

Enter Point Card.   

Designed as a transparent, easy-to-use alternative payment card, Point enables cardholders to exercise fiscal independence and spend their own money while also receiving exclusive benefits. These benefits include unlimited cash-back and bonus cash-back on subscriptions, food delivery, rideshare services, and coffee shop purchases. 

You work hard for your money, and Point works just as hard for you in return. Alongside its extensive rewards program that helps you build your wealth, Point also comes with multiple features designed to protect your money. These include no interest fees, fraud protection with zero liability, and phone and car rental insurance. With Point Card, you’ll be able to focus on saving money for what truly matters to you, instead of using that money to pay unnecessary fees. 

Point Card has your back every step of the way.