How to Rent a Car Without a Credit Card

Car rental companies include credit cards on the list of what you need to rent a car for several reasons. Many match the account holder’s name on the credit card to the driver to ensure no identity fraud occurs. This verification is one of the many reasons you can’t rent a car for someone else because car rental companies require drivers to be present at the time of pickup. 

In addition, most drivers who qualify for a credit card typically have a few hundred dollars of padding to cover rental holds. These holds are an additional method of mitigating risk, specifically if you were to return the car damaged and not pay for it. Car rental companies authorize a hold to cover those expenses if necessary and release them if none apply. 

Besides reducing liability, credit cards are one of the most widely accepted payment methods. It’s much easier for a rental car company to accept reservations and payment with a credit card (or debit card, if permitted) than personal checks, money orders, or cash. Credit cards also contain an element of traceability, which can come in handy for record-keeping and any other circumstances that arise. 

While it’s possible to pay for a rental car with another payment method besides a credit card, rental car companies rarely let you reserve one with a debit card, cash, prepaid card, money order, personal check, or other form of payment. You typically have to find a smaller rental company to use the alternate payment forms to reserve a car. In addition, you can potentially use a third-party booking site to pay with something other than a credit card, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal. 

Some travelers have successfully mitigated their risk by offering to submit to a higher-than-average security deposit. Even showing proof of insurance can help your case if you don’t have a credit card but want to rent a car. However, the rental company reserves the right to approve or deny your rental request based on their policies and the information you provide. 

If you’re looking for a rental car alternative, FINN offers car subscriptions that you can pay with a credit or debit card or by linking your bank account directly. FINN car subscriptions have flexible terms that let you choose which car you want to drive and for how long. Your monthly payment includes registration, insurance, depreciation, and maintenance. 

Renting a car without a credit card requires various steps, many of which share similarities among rental car companies. In each case, however, remaining proactive can help you avoid last-minute delays and changes to your itinerary. Below are the broad steps to rent a car without a credit card—or explore the alternative. 

Speak to a company representative 

Rental policies vary between companies, but they can also change. Ask a representative if you’re unsure which payment methods a particular rental car company accepts. Calling your local office or the office you plan on renting from is the best approach to finding accurate and timely information. 

Prepare the appropriate documentation 

Should you find a rental car company that accepts alternate forms of payment besides credit cards, ask about the requirements for those payment methods. Write down any details, including what documentation you must bring to the car rental counter before picking up your rental car. Ensure you have copies of this documentation to bring with you to streamline the car rental process. 

Consider a car subscription instead

Car subscriptions can offer travelers the flexibility and freedom they need without restricting terms and conditions. This popular rental car alternative moves the conversation beyond economy vs. compact car to help you learn more about how a particular car can fit into your lifestyle, whether for six months to go on a short road trip or a year-long test drive to contextualize your next car purchase. You can also use a FINN car subscription to plan your monthly budget and test it before committing. 

Can you rent a car with cash? 

Very few rental car companies accept cash payments, despite what you may think. While cash is typically king, car rental companies don’t like to stray too far from established protocols. Accessing your credit or debit card opens the door to recouping expenses if necessary, a tool most car rental companies aren’t willing to compromise, even if it means losing a rental contract. 

Can you rent a car with a prepaid card? 

Car rental companies may be interested in working with you if you use a prepaid card, but only if the card holds enough funds to cover the rental fees and temporary hold the company places on your account. Similar to debit and credit cards, prepaid cards typically only qualify as an accepted payment method if they bear the mark of major credit card companies such as Visa and Mastercard. 

Ironing out details about reserving and paying for your car rental without a credit card can help you enjoy your next road trip behind the wheel. Below are a few tips to consider when renting a car without a credit card: 

• Rather than trying to figure out the best time to rent a car, focus instead on what you want to get from your renting experience. If paying a few more dollars helps you feel safe, try driving a new vehicle, or otherwise benefits you, consider splurging for a more rewarding experience. 
• Determine what age requirements a rental car company upholds, including what fees for younger drivers may apply. 
• Read the fine print regarding cancelation and refund policies and fees. 
• Be aware of any additional fees you may owe, including toll fees or returning your rental car early or late. 
• Inquire about vehicle selection and availability, asking after any local events that may impact which cars are available for rent.

Working on your credit can also help you earn and use a credit card to rent a car in the future. Credit scores also play an integral role in what interest rates or money factors you qualify for, depending on whether you purchase or lease your next vehicle. You may even pay less for car insurance with a higher credit rating, depending on several factors. 

Most rental car companies require a credit card to make a reservation. The following table demonstrates payment method policies at major car rental companies: 

Some rental car companies allow you to reserve a car with a debit card, but the process requires additional steps and verification. These requirements vary between car rental companies but often involve providing: 

• Proof of identification
• Proof of insurance
• Proof of address
• A valid driver’s license
• A complete itinerary 
• A security deposit of between $200 and $500

If you’re curious about payment policies, specifically regarding what payment methods a rental car company accepts, speaking to a representative can help clear up confusion. It’s better to call ahead and confirm than show up to the rental counter and improvise should a payment method not work out.