At pickup the supplier places a hold on the main driver's card. The money is not debited, but it is ringfenced and unavailable to you for the duration of the rental and for a period afterwards.
- The amount depends on vehicle class and the excess on your cover. Larger and more expensive cars carry larger holds.
- Choosing extra cover at the counter usually reduces the hold, which is part of why it is sold hard at the desk.
- Release timing is controlled by your bank, not the supplier. A few days is common; two weeks is not unusual.
- A hold still consumes your available credit, so factor it in if you are travelling on a card near its limit.
If the deposit is not released
Contact the supplier with your rental agreement number and the date of return. If they confirm release on their side, the delay is with your card issuer and needs chasing there.