Yes, you can often pay for a car rental with two credit cards, but it is not a universally supported practice and depends entirely on the rental company's specific policies and their point-of-sale system capabilities. The process is typically more straightforward at the rental counter than during an online booking.
The most common method is to use one card for the primary rental charges and a second card for the security deposit or incidental hold. However, some companies may allow you to split the actual rental cost. You should be prepared for a few potential hurdles. The primary card must usually be in the driver's name and have sufficient available credit for the entire rental amount plus a security deposit, which can be several hundred dollars. The second card can often be used to cover the remaining balance after the first card's hold is placed.
It's crucial to call the specific rental location ahead of time to confirm their split-payment policy. Major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis have varying rules that can even differ by franchise location. Attempting to do this without prior confirmation can lead to delays or complications at pickup.
Here’s a quick overview of policies from major rental companies (policies can vary by location):
| Rental Company | Split Payment Policy at Counter | Online Split Payment | Primary Card Requirement | Notes |
|---|
| Enterprise | Often Possible | Generally Not Available | Must be in driver's name | Second card may be used for balance after deposit. |
| Hertz | Varies by Location | Rarely Available | Must be in driver's name | Call ahead to the specific branch is essential. |
| Avis | Sometimes Possible | Generally Not Available | Must be in driver's name | Policy is not standardized across all locations. |
| Budget | Varies by Location | Rarely Available | Must be in driver's name | Airport locations may be more flexible. |
| National | Often Possible | Generally Not Available | Must be in driver's name | Similar to Enterprise, as they are part of the same group. |
If splitting the cost is essential, consider having one person pay the entire rental with their card and the other pay for fuel, tolls, or other trip expenses separately. Alternatively, use a single card for the rental and settle the costs personally later. The key is to manage your expectations and communicate with the rental company directly to avoid any surprises on your travel day.
