Do you need a credit card to rent a car?

Many people don’t realise you often need a credit card to hire a car. It’s not always common knowledge, and it can come as a surprise if you turn up with just a debit card. Most car hire companies in the UK prefer you to have a credit card when you collect your car. They use it to hold a security deposit in case of damage or extra charges.

This doesn’t mean the money is taken straight away, but it’s “blocked” on your credit limit until you return the car safely.

Can you rent a car with a debit card?

Yes, some companies do let you use a debit card – but there can be extra rules. For example:

You might need extra ID, like a utility bill or proof of address.
Some rental places only accept debit cards with Visa or Mastercard logos.
They might check your credit file or ask for more paperwork such as recent bank statements, proof of income, or employment verification.

If you plan to rent with a debit card, it’s always best to call ahead and check what’s accepted.

Why do car hire companies prefer credit cards?

Credit cards give hire companies a bit more protection. If the car is damaged or you don’t pay for extra charges (like late return fees), they can claim the money more easily through the credit card company.

With a debit card, they don’t have that same guarantee, which is why some companies don’t accept them or add extra checks.

How big is the deposit when renting a car?

Deposits vary depending on:

The hire company
The type of car you rent
How long you hire it for
Where you’re hiring from

It can range from £100 to £500 for standard vehicles. This is why a credit card with a higher limit can be useful – it keeps the deposit separate from your daily spending money.

Can you use a prepaid card to rent a car?

Most car hire companies don’t accept prepaid cards for deposits. Even if you pay for the booking online with a prepaid card, you’ll usually still need a credit or debit card at the desk.

What if you don’t have a credit card?

If you don’t have a credit card, don’t worry – you still have options:

Look for car hire companies that accept debit cards (some websites let you filter for these).
Apply for a credit card if you think it’s the right choice for you, but only if you can manage repayments responsibly.

Tips for renting a car without a credit card

Always read the terms and conditions of the hire company carefully.
Contact the hire company before booking to confirm they’ll accept your debit card.
Make sure you have enough money in your bank account to cover the deposit.
Bring extra ID and proof of address – it can help if they ask for more details.

Key takeaway

You don’t always need a credit card to rent a car in the UK – but it makes things easier. If you only have a debit card, plan ahead, check with the hire company, and be ready for extra requirements. That way, you can hit the road with confidence.

Disclaimer: We make every effort to ensure content is correct when published. Information on this website doesn't constitute financial advice, and we aren't responsible for the content of any external sites.

Fiona Peake

Personal Finance Writer

Fiona is a personal finance writer with over 7 years’ experience writing for a broad range of industries before joining Ocean in 2021. She uses her wealth of experience to turn the overwhelming aspects of finance into articles that are easy to understand.