The demand for rent a car with no deposit options has surged among travelers, locals with tight budgets, and those who prefer not to tie up funds on their credit card.

What Does “No Deposit” Car Rental Mean?

Traditionally, rental companies in the US require a security deposit of $200–$500 (or more), which is held on your credit or debit card during the rental period. With no-deposit rentals, that upfront hold is waived or replaced by a smaller fee or alternative coverage — giving you more financial freedom.

Who Benefits from This Option?

  • Tourists visiting the US short-term
  • Young drivers without major credit limits
  • People using debit cards or cash
  • Local renters needing temporary transportation
  • Business travelers who want cleaner billing with fewer holds

Where Can You Rent a Car with No Deposit in the US?

While not all rental companies offer this option, many are starting to provide low-deposit or no-deposit programs, especially in major cities and airports. Here are a few to check:

  • Hertz (with Gold Plus Rewards or pre-paid bookings)
  • Thrifty and Dollar (with insurance bundles and local-use programs)
  • Turo (peer-to-peer platform with host-set deposit policies)
  • Avis/Budget (select pre-paid or business options)
  • Smaller agencies in cities like Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Houston, and Atlanta

Things to Know Before Booking

  • “No deposit” doesn’t always mean zero upfront – some companies still require minimal holds or added insurance
  • Using a debit card? Be prepared for extra ID verification or travel documents
  • Check for extra fees – like young driver fees, airport surcharges, or excess mileage
  • Look for deals that include insurance, so you don’t need a high deposit as coverage

Tips to Save More

  • Book in advance and compare multiple providers
  • Use loyalty programs to waive holds
  • Choose smaller cars, which often come with fewer conditions
  • Travel during off-peak times to avoid premium rates

Want to rent a car in the US without blocking your money?
Check out our full guide to discover how and where to rent a car with no deposit — and get on the road with less hassle and more freedom.