Car Rental Deposit Requirements

PHOTO

RentalForCar rentals desk· Rental deposits
Written and fact-checked by the RentalForCar rentals desk · Last checked 8 September 2026

Sources: Each rental company’s deposit policy and the rental company’s counter policy at the time of booking.

Short version:a refundable hold placed at pick-up and released after return; the size depends on the car and branch, and debit holds can be larger.

What a hold actually is

At pick-up the branch authorises a refundable amount on your card and releases it after you return the car in good order. It is not a payment — but while it’s held, that money isn’t available to spend, which surprises people on debit cards especially.

Why amounts differ

The hold scales with the car: an economy car and a full-size SUV or van are very different numbers, and each branch sets its own. Debit holds can be larger than credit holds. There is no national figure, which is why we ask your specific branch.

Getting the money back

Release timing is set by your bank, not the rental company — often a few business days after return. If your trip budget depends on those funds, plan around the hold, not just the rental cost.

RentalForCar is an independent booking agent, not a rental car company, and is not affiliated with any rental brand. Rates and availability come from the rental companies; deposits and local charges are handled at the counter.

The things people ask us most

Straight answers

Is the deposit an extra cost?

No — it’s a refundable hold, released after you return the car. It just isn’t spendable while it’s held.

How big is the hold?

It depends on the class and branch, and can be larger on debit. We’ll give you the range for your pick-up.

When do I get it back?

Usually a few business days after return — the timing is your bank’s, not the rental company’s.

One call. No counter surprises.

Tell us your city and dates. We’ll confirm the rules and the all-in total on the phone.

+1 (877) 851-6014