National Car Rental is one of the largest car rental companies in the United States. When renting a car, it is essential to understand the company’s policies and payment requirements. One of the most critical aspects of renting a car is the deposit. This article will explore whether National Car Rental requires a deposit.
Does National Car Rental Require a Deposit?
Yes, National Car Rental requires a deposit for all rentals. The deposit amount varies based on the rental location, type of vehicle, and rental duration. Typically, the deposit amount is between $200-$350 or higher for luxury or specialty vehicles.
Can I Rent a Car Without a Credit Card?
National provides customers with several flexible payment options, including credit and debit cards, as well as pre-payment.
RENTING A CAR WITH A CREDIT CARD:
To rent a car using a credit card, the renter must have a credit card in their name with available credit. The name imprinted on the card and the signature on the car rental agreement must match. For online reservations, the name and number presented on the card must match the information stored for the reservation.
- Accepted Credit Cards: American Express®, Mastercard®, VISA®, and Discover® Network.
- Accepted Credit Cards in Canada: American Express®, Mastercard®, VISA®, and Discover® Network (only at airport locations).
- Accepted Credit Cards in Puerto Rico: American Express®, Mastercard®, VISA®, Diners Club®, and Discover® Network.
RENTING A CAR WITH A DEBIT CARD:
Debit/Check cards with the VISA, Mastercard®, or Discover logo are accepted as long as they are not prepaid cards or other non-credit cards without one of these logos. (Discover is not accepted in Canada.)
At airport locations, debit card deposits are only accepted if the renter can provide a ticketed return travel itinerary. The name and address on the renter’s driver’s license must match their current home address, except for active-duty military personnel who are exempt from this requirement. Additional drivers other than the renter’s spouse or domestic partner are not allowed. Charges will be placed on the debit card at the time of rental, which will reduce the available funds in the linked account. The renter is responsible for any overdraft fees incurred.
Disembarking passengers must provide a credit card or debit card with enough funds to cover the rental cost.
Renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary must provide a credit card with sufficient available credit to cover the estimated total rental amount, along with a deposit ranging from $300 to $400, depending on the location and vehicle class.
Canadian locations only accept US and International Debit Cards with a ticketed return travel itinerary. Canadian Debit Cards are not accepted at airport locations.
DOES NATIONAL ACCEPT GIFT CARDS?
National accepts pre-paid gift cards with a Visa®, Mastercard®, or Amex® symbol as a form of payment at the end of a rental. However, gift cards cannot be used to secure a rental. Payment is not required when making a reservation.
Note: National does not issue gift cards and will never request credit card or payment information over the phone. For more information, please visit our pre-paid gift card alert page.
RENTING A CAR WITH CASH:
Cash deposits are not accepted at the beginning of a rental at any location due to security reasons. Some locations may not accept cash at any time.
Note: Certain tour customers may be exempt from cash rental restrictions due to the prepaid nature of their travel packages.
Note: In Canada, only customers on a pre-paid tour or renting through corporate accounts with negotiated cash options are allowed to use cash for rental qualification.
What Is a Car Rental Deposit?
A deposit is a fee paid upfront by the renter to cover any potential damages or additional charges that may occur during the rental period. The amount of the deposit varies by company and location. The deposit is refundable upon returning the car in the same condition as when it was rented.
National Car Rental Service
National Car Rental provides rental services in over 80 countries worldwide. They offer a wide range of cars at competitive prices, including compact, mid-size, full-size, and luxury vehicles. In addition, National Car Rental offers several programs, including the Emerald Club, which gives members priority service and access to exclusive benefits.
How to Pay the Deposit
National Car Rental accepts credit and debit cards for the deposit payment. The deposit amount is charged to the card at the time of rental and refunded upon returning the car in good condition.
Refund Policy for the Deposit
The deposit is refundable upon returning the car in the same condition as when it was rented. If any damage occurs during the rental period, the cost of repair will be deducted from the deposit. Any remaining deposit will be refunded to the renter’s credit or debit card.
Alternative Options to National Car Rental
Several other car rental companies also require deposits for rentals. These include Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Deposit amounts vary by location and rental duration. Comparing the deposit requirements of these companies can help renters to choose the best deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I rent a car without a deposit? No, all car rental companies require a deposit for rentals.
- What happens if I don’t have enough money for the deposit? If a renter does not have enough money for the deposit, they will not be able to rent a car.
- Can I use a debit card instead of a credit card for the deposit? Yes, National Car Rental accepts debit cards for the deposit payment. However, some restrictions may apply, so it is recommended to check with the rental location before renting.
Conclusion In conclusion, National Car Rental requires a deposit for all rentals. The deposit amount varies based on the rental location, type of vehicle, and rental duration. Deposits are refundable upon returning the car in good condition. Other major car rental companies also require deposits for rentals, but deposit amounts vary by company and location. Understanding the deposit requirements of National Car Rental and other companies can help renters choose the best deal for their needs.
