How to Get a Rental Car Without a Credit Card

It’s difficult to rent a car without a credit card, but it’s not impossible. This article shows you the necessary steps that you need to take to find a rental car agency that does not require a credit card. You’ll be able to make your car rental reservation within minutes after reading this article—no credit card required!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Debit Card
• Extra cash for deposit

1. Obtain a debit card or check card from your local bank—if you don’t already have one. It’s an easy process and check cards are made available to almost anyone with a checking account. In absence of a credit card—the car rental agency will most likely require a debit card. Some car rental agencies view debit cards as a risk and may require an extra deposit from you—which will usually be credited to your bank account within a couple of days to a couple of weeks of you returning your auto rental.

2. To find a car rental agency that accepts debit cards--do an online search for car rental agencies in the city of your choice. For example, if you’re planning to vacation in Las Vegas, type in “Las Vegas” and try different searches using keywords such as “no credit card required,” “debit cards accepted,” “without a credit card,” etc. along with the words “Las Vegas” or other appropriate city. This should bring up a few good sites showing car rental agencies requiring no credit cards.

3. Contact your travel agent—he or she often knows best and may have knowledge of which companies offer car rentals to those who don’t have credit cards.

4. Use travel broker sites such as Expedia. You will be able to compare prices of the car rentals, as well as see which car rental agencies will allow you to reserve a car without a credit card.

5. If you are planning a trip in advance, you have the time and option of applying for a secured credit card. A secured credit is an excellent choice for those who have trouble getting a regular credit card due to no credit or a bad credit history. The car rental agencies don’t know that the credit card is secured and will treat it like a regular unsecured credit card.

Tips & Warnings

• If you’re having difficulty getting one of the major car rental agencies to allow you to rent a car without a credit card—consider smaller companies in the town or city that you plan to visit. Some car dealerships offer the service of rental cars and may be willing to accept debit cards.
• Be prepared to have extra cash in your account—in case the rental car agency requires an extra deposit for allowing you to rent a car with your debit card.

[frugalmomi]

on 10/14/2009 I did not know this . Thanks 5*

[gahazeleyes]

on 8/29/2009 Thanks for sharing. 5*****