An ACE Rent A Car deposit, also known as a security hold, typically ranges from $200 to $500 on top of the rental cost. The exact amount isn't fixed; it depends heavily on the location, the class of vehicle you're renting, your payment method, and your own rental profile. This hold is a pre-authorization on your credit or debit card, not an immediate charge, and it's released upon the vehicle's safe return.
The primary factors influencing the deposit are the vehicle's value and the associated risk for the company. Renting a standard economy car will generally require a deposit on the lower end of the scale, while reserving a premium SUV or a luxury model will likely trigger a higher hold, sometimes exceeding $500. Your method of payment is also critical. Renting with a debit card often results in a higher deposit compared to using a major credit card. Furthermore, local state laws and specific franchise policies can cause variations, so the deposit in a major airport location might differ from a suburban branch.
It's crucial to plan your finances for this. The deposit hold, plus the initial rental cost, will temporarily reduce your available credit or banking balance. The release of the hold after you return the car can take several business days, depending on your bank's policies, so it won't be immediate.
| Factor | Typical Impact on Deposit Amount |
|---|
| Vehicle Class | Economy: ~$200; Standard: ~$300; Premium/SUV: ~$400+ |
| Payment Method | Credit Card: Standard hold; Debit Card: Often $100+ higher |
| Renter's Age | Under 25: May incur a young renter fee and higher deposit |
| Rental Location | Airport locations may have slightly different policies |
| Rental Duration | Longer rentals might see a proportional increase in the hold |
| Additional Drivers | Adding extra drivers may increase the deposit amount |
The most reliable way to know your exact deposit is to simulate a booking on the ACE website or app, as the final checkout process will display the total amount to be held before you confirm.
