Paying for a rental car from abroad
The short answer
Bring a major credit card in the main driver's own name with enough room for a deposit hold. Debit and prepaid cards are much harder: many locations won't take them for the deposit, and those that do may run checks. Alamo accepts JCB and UnionPay at its US and Canada airports.
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Which cards do US rental companies accept?
- Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover credit cards are widely accepted.
- Alamo says JCB and UnionPay are accepted at all its US and Canada airport locations.
- Prepaid cards can't be used for deposits at Budget; they can only be used for the final payment.
- The card must be in the main driver's name. A card in a partner's or parent's name usually means no car.
Can I use a debit card from abroad?
It's risky. Budget says renters under 25 must use a credit card, some locations don't accept debit cards for the deposit at all, and those that do run a credit check, which a card issued abroad may not pass. Our deposit and debit card page covers the details.
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How big is the deposit, and when is it returned?
Expect a hold for the estimated rental cost plus an extra amount, often a few hundred dollars, and more with a debit card. The rental company releases it after the rental; how fast it reappears depends on your bank, and on a card issued abroad it can take longer.
Should I pay in dollars or my home currency?
If the card machine offers to charge you in your home currency, the exchange rate is set at the counter and is often worse than your bank's. Paying in US dollars usually works out cheaper, but check your own card's foreign transaction fees.
Questions people ask
Can I rent a car in the USA with a credit card from another country?
Usually, yes, if it's a major card in the main driver's name with enough limit for the deposit. Alamo also accepts JCB and UnionPay at its US and Canada airports.
Can foreigners rent a car in the USA with a debit card?
Sometimes, but it's difficult. Some locations don't take debit cards for the deposit, and others run a credit check. A credit card is far more reliable.
Do I need proof of a return flight when paying from abroad?
Budget says all renters from outside the US and Canada must show proof of a return trip home, or the rate may change.
Related help
- Renting in the US or Canada from abroad
- Big deposit or debit card refused
- Foreign licenses and the International Driving Permit
- Renting a car in the USA from the UK
- Renting a car in the USA from Canada
- License refused at the counter
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