Many Canadian car rental companies now offer Car Rental With No Credit Check by accepting debit cards or prepaid cards—ideal for travelers or residents without a credit card. These options typically involve holding a larger security deposit and providing extra documentation.
📍 Where to Find No-Credit-Check Rentals in Canada
- National Car Rental & Enterprise accept Visa/MasterCard debit cards with proof of a round-trip travel itinerary; deposits range from CAD 300–400, and drivers must meet age and ID requirements.
- Dollar Car Rental, a sister brand of Hertz, does not perform credit checks, allows debit card use for economy vehicles (reserved 24 h in advance) with a ~$200 hold, and still requires ID and proof of travel.
- Alamo accepts debit cards at airport locations with return travel proof; requires a CAD 300–400 deposit and matching driver’s license address.
- Sixt doesn’t accept debit cards in Canada, so credit card is still required at its locations
💵 Pricing & Real-World Examples
| Company | Vehicle Type | Deposit Hold | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| National / Enterprise | Economy/Compact | CAD 300–400 | Debit card + travel itinerary + 2 IDs |
| Dollar (non-premium cars) | Economy/Sedan | ~CAD 200 | Debit card, ID, 24h book, round-trip travel |
| Alamo (airport) | Economy/Compact | CAD 300–400 | Debit card, ID, itinerary; no Canadian debit ** |
Note: Rates vary, but expect to pay daily base fees plus the deposit hold.
🛒 How It Works – Step by Step
- Search Powerfully: Use platforms like EnjoyTravel to filter for “without credit card” rentals.
- Book & Provide Travel Info: Must show return flight/bus ticket, or two utility bills to match driver’s license.
- Payment at Pickup: Present your debit/prepaid card and cover the deposit hold. Higher balance advisable.
- Return & Deposit Release: Once the car is returned undamaged, the deposit hold is released—may take 7–14 business days to clear.
✅ Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Enables those without credit cards to rent flexibly.
- Avoid debt; spend only what’s in your account.
- No credit check required by providers like Dollar and Enterprise.
Limitations
- Larger security holds that tie up funds.
- Additional documentation: travel itinerary, IDs, proof of address.
- Limited vehicle selection—usually economy to mid-size only.
- Debit cards may not be accepted at all locations—check first.
💡 Useful Tips
- Check your debit card type: Only cards with Visa/Mastercard logos usually accepted—Discover is rare in Canada
- Bring extra documentation: Travel tickets, utility bills or bank statements may be required
- Ensure sufficient funds: Cover rental charges + deposit hold to avoid declined transactions.
- Book early: The window for debit-eligible bookings is smaller—classic for Dollar rentals
✅ Final Word
Car rentals with no credit check are entirely possible across Canada using debit or prepaid cards. Though larger security deposits and extra documentation are required, companies like Dollar, National, Enterprise, and Alamo (airport locations) are making vehicle access more inclusive and practical. Compare offers, plan your funds ahead, and ensure you meet documentation requirements—then enjoy a smooth rental experience without relying on a credit card.