Rental Car Question

[susan137]

Can anyone tell me if there would be a problem renting a car with a debit card as opposed to a regular credit card? It does have the Visa logo, but seems to me I read something about not being able to use them for rental cars. Any help would be appreciated.....Susan

 

[safetymom]

Hertz requires that the debit card be listed in your Gold profille. Not sure about the others. What car rental company are you using?

 

[susan137]

I'm still shopping for the best deal. I would prefer National, I guess and I would prefer to use a debit card. Just curious, what is Hertz gold profile?

Susan

 

[safetymom]

Hertz has a #1 Gold Club. It allows you to bypass the counter and go directly to your car. It costs to join but I have seen free offers for this club. I am usually out of the lot in 10 mins or less. They are offsite.

I am pretty sure that National takes debit cards. I would call and ask though to make sure even if others advise that they do take debit cards.

 

[prncess674]

I don't recommend using a debit card for a rental car. Many companies explicitly say they do not accept them. Also be aware that they put a "hold" on funds in the account. The amount is larger than the actual rental charges. Hotels do the same thing. It is better to use a true credit card for rental cars. Your best bet is to use your credit card to make the reservation and then when you return the car ask that the charges be settled with your DC or cash.

 

[safetymom]

I use my debit card all the time to rent cars. I like the fact that they hold the rental amount and $50. When I go to pay I don't have to worry about paying a credit card bill. You just plan in advance, not a problem in my case.

 

[GAIL HAYDEN]

Dollar, Alamo and I believe Budget accept debit cards for car rentals.
Alamo only charges the amount of the rental for anyone regardless of what kind of card you use. This is done at the beginning of your rental.
Dollar charges the actual fee plus 15%, the specifics are on the web site. This is the same for debit or credit and your card is charged at the beginning of the rental.
Budget, well I would check the website, it has been awhile since I read the site and longer since I rented from them.
Any hold on a debit card disappears after 3 days, 7 with a credit card.
National does not accept debit cards at the beginning of a rental, but will accept them at the end. They charge at the end of your rental and do not place a hold on the card.

 

[alansh]

Nearly all rental companies will let you change your method of payment at the end of the rental. You can guarantee it with a credit card, then pay with debit or cash when you return it.

 

[susan137]

You guys are great. Thanks for all of the info. I knew I could come to the DIS and find an answer!