Renting a car in the USA from India

The short answer

A valid Indian driving license with your passport is accepted by the major US rental companies. If your license is in English, an International Driving Permit isn't needed for the rental, but many Indian travellers bring one to make the counter quicker. Bring a credit card in the main driver's name: Indian debit cards are rarely accepted for the deposit.

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What do I need to bring?

Your Indian driving license, valid for the whole rental, with your photo. Enterprise doesn't accept digital licenses, so bring the physical card.
Your passport, in the same name.
An International Driving Permit if any part of your license isn't in English.
A credit card in the main driver's name, with room for the deposit.
Proof of your return flight: Budget asks all renters from outside the US and Canada for it.

Getting an IDP in India

Apply at your Regional Transport Office before you travel; you can't get one once you're in the US.
The IDP only works together with your Indian license, never on its own.
Check that the name on your license, passport and card match exactly.

What catches visitors out?

A debit card, or a card in someone else's name, for the deposit.
Young driver fees if anyone driving is under 25.
Tolls billed weeks later, after you've flown home. See toll fees by company.
Buying cover twice, or not at all. See cover for visitors.

Planning your trip? Leave your number and we'll check it for your booking.

Questions people ask

Can I rent a car in the USA with an Indian driving license?

Yes, with your passport. Bring the physical license card; Enterprise doesn't accept digital licenses.

Do I need an International Driving Permit from India?

Not if your license is in English, but many travellers bring one. If any part isn't in English, an IDP is recommended.

Can I use an Indian debit card to rent a car in the USA?

Usually not for the deposit. Many locations only take credit cards, and those that accept debit cards may run a US credit check. Bring a credit card in the main driver's name.

Related help

Written by the OneCall Rental team, which includes people who've worked car-rental reservation calls. Company policies last checked 19 October 2026 on each company's own website. Policies change, so check your own rental agreement too.

OneCall Rental is an independent service and is not affiliated with any rental company or travel site.

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