Short answer
Often, yes — many US rental locations accept a debit card instead, but usually with conditions such as a larger deposit hold, a credit check, proof of address or proof of return travel, and limits on which cars you can rent. Prepaid cards and cash are rarely accepted for the deposit. The card must be in the main driver's name.
Rental companies prefer credit cards because a credit card hold is an easy way to guarantee they can recover fuel, tolls or damage costs. Without one, you have fewer options — but you're rarely out of options entirely.
Option 1: a debit card
Many locations of the major US brands accept debit cards, but policies differ by company and even by location. Common conditions include:
- A larger security hold, taken from your bank balance rather than a credit line
- A credit check at the counter
- Proof of return travel for airport rentals, such as a flight itinerary matching the rental dates
- Proof of address for neighborhood branches, such as recent utility bills
- No premium, luxury or specialty vehicles
Read renting a car with a debit card before you go — it's the most common route for renters without a credit card.
Option 2: someone else's credit card — only if they rent
The card must be in the name of the main driver. A friend or relative can't put down their card for your rental. They can, however, rent the car themselves and add you as an additional driver — see can someone else drive my rental car.
What usually doesn't work
- Prepaid cards and gift cards: generally not accepted for the deposit, though some locations accept them for final payment.
- Cash: very few locations accept cash for the deposit. Some accept it to pay the final bill, with a card still required at pickup.
Before you book without a credit card
- Check the specific location's payment policy, not just the company's general rules.
- Make sure your bank balance can cover the hold plus your travel spending.
- Carry the documents listed in what documents you need to rent a car.
- Expect to pick a standard car class — compare cheap car rentals, where debit cards are most often accepted.
If a rental won't work
Car-sharing and peer-to-peer services set their own payment rules, and some accept debit cards more readily. For city trips, public transport plus occasional rideshares may be simpler. Browse car rental by city to see whether you need a car at all.
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