Is a deposit required for car rental?
2 Answers
Car rental requires a deposit, mainly in two forms. The first form is paying cash directly, and the second form is a credit card pre-authorization. Generally, people prefer the second option because the amount of cash required is relatively large, especially for more expensive vehicles. The more expensive the vehicle, the higher the deposit required. The following are the considerations for car rental: Note 1: Whether the rental vehicle quotation includes insurance, road maintenance fees, operation management fees, vehicle and vessel usage fees, regular maintenance fees, vehicle management fees, and other routine expenses. Note 2: Whether the rental price includes fuel costs, toll fees, parking fees, fines for traffic violations during self-driving, and special driver service fees. Note 3: The method for calculating rental time and mileage. Note 4: The time for deposit refund and whether a violation deposit will be temporarily withheld. Note 5: Whether the insurance is comprehensive, including coverage across provinces and the allocation of losses in case of an accident. Note 6: Understand the performance, price of the desired rental vehicle, and the required documents for rental. It is best to fill out a vehicle condition inspection form when picking up the car.
As a seasoned long-term business car rental veteran, I've found that the vast majority of rental companies require a security deposit. This deposit primarily covers potential risks such as vehicle damage, extended rental periods, or traffic violation fines. Deposits are typically in the form of credit card pre-authorizations, with amounts varying significantly: small economy cars may only require a few hundred yuan, while luxury vehicles or long holiday rentals can run into thousands. I prefer major brands like Hertz or Avis because their policies are clear and transparent, with fast deposit refunds—usually released within 3 days. If the vehicle inspection after return shows no issues, the hold is lifted. Joining membership programs can sometimes waive the deposit, but that involves annual fees, so it's worth assessing your needs. Always read the rental contract carefully before signing to avoid unexpected charges. Another tip: airport rental locations often charge higher deposits, so booking online in advance is more cost-effective.
