Yes, you can rent a car with no deposit, but it typically requires meeting specific criteria or using certain services. The standard security deposit, often called a "hold" on your credit card, is waived in several scenarios. The most common ways are by being a member of a rental company's loyalty program, using a debit card with specific providers, or booking through certain third-party services or non-traditional rental companies like Turo.
Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise offer no-deposit benefits to members of their top-tier loyalty programs. For example, Hertz's President's Circle or Avis's Preferred Plus members can skip the counter and go straight to their car, which bypasses the deposit requirement. Enrolling in these programs is free and is your most straightforward path to avoiding a deposit at major agencies.
If you primarily use a debit card, your options are more limited but exist. Companies like Budget and Enterprise have policies that allow debit card use, but they often require additional documentation like proof of return travel, two forms of ID, and a utility bill. The hold amount might still be placed on your debit account, so it's crucial to confirm the exact policy.
Peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms are another excellent option. Services like Turo and Getaround function like Airbnb for cars. Individual car owners set their own rental terms, and many listings do not require a security deposit. Instead, they may offer or require a protection plan for a daily fee that covers potential damage.
| Rental Method | How it Works | Key Requirements & Considerations |
|---|
| Loyalty Program Status | Waives deposit for top-tier members. | Free to join; requires providing driver's license and payment info in your profile. |
| Select Debit Card Rentals | Allows rental with a debit card instead of a credit card. | Strict checks: round-trip ticket, two forms of ID, and a utility bill may be needed. |
| Peer-to-Peer (e.g., Turo) | Rent directly from car owners via an app. | Deposit requirements vary by owner; many offer damage protection plans instead. |
| Third-Party Bookings | Book through certain travel portals or memberships. | Conditions apply; read the fine print carefully as the deposit policy may differ. |
Always read the terms and conditions thoroughly before booking. Contact the rental location directly to confirm their specific policy, as they can vary even within the same company.
