Car rental and credit cards?

[wendym]

We have prebooked our carhire in the UK and the price includes all the taxes etc. However I know they will also ask for a credit card when we pick up the car- does anybody know how much they "block" off on your card?
Many thanks
Wendy

 

[jel0511]

Hi -

I beleive they block off $200 or 15% of the total rental, which ever is greater as a damage deposit. Just be sure you have a credit card or check with the rental company you're renting with, because some of them don't accept a debit card.

 

[wendym]

Thank you so much. I pay for the car but it is my mum who drives- I just needed to make sure she had a big enough limit on her credit card.
Wendy

 

[GAIL HAYDEN]

Depends on the rental company. National blocks the amount of the rental only. Alamo charges the card for the amount of the rental only at the time of pickup.
Dollar blocks the amount of the rental plus. (check the website).
The only way to be sure is to call the rental company directly and ask.
Hope this helps.