Quick Summary
- In the United States most suppliers expect the main driver to present a payment card at pickup, so arriving with cash only is very risky.
- Some locations allow you to settle the final bill in notes, but they still need a card to block the security deposit and cover possible fines or damage.
- Hola Car Rentals can help you find partners that accept debit or alternative payment methods, but it is essential to read the payment rules for your booking before you travel.
Why rental companies insist on cards
Many travellers are surprised when they discover that cash is not enough to collect a vehicle at the counter. In the United States, rental suppliers need a way to hold a deposit and charge you later if there are unpaid tolls, damage or parking tickets. The easiest way to do that is to place an authorised hold on a payment card in the main driver's name.
Before you confirm your car rental through Hola Car Rentals, you will see clear information about the deposit amount, the type of card required and any extra checks for drivers without traditional credit histories. Taking a moment to read these conditions saves awkward conversations at the counter.
Paying the bill in cash
At many locations you can still use cash to pay for fuel, extra days or minor charges at the end of the trip. For example, you might settle the remaining balance at a busy Miami airport desk in cash once the vehicle has been inspected. However, the security deposit that was held on your card at the start is usually released back to the same card rather than handed over in notes.
A few airport and downtown branches do accept cash deposits, but they tend to apply very strict checks. These can include proof of return flights, income verification or higher deposit amounts. If you rely on this type of arrangement, it is vital to get written confirmation from the supplier before you travel, not on the day you arrive.
Debit, prepaid and alternative payment options
If you do not own a credit card, some suppliers will allow you to use a debit or prepaid card instead. There may be extra conditions such as limiting certain vehicle categories or requiring additional identification. Hola Car Rentals works with partners that are comfortable with travellers who prefer modern banking tools and can often combine these options with All Inclusive Plus coverage and free travel insurance up to US$150,000.
For more detail on how different payment methods are treated, read our guide on renting without a traditional credit card. It explains why rules can change between locations and how to avoid last minute surprises at the desk.
Planning ahead if you do not have a credit card
The key is to plan well before you fly. If you are travelling with a friend or partner who has a card, consider having that person listed as the main driver. Another option is to apply for a low limit travel card in advance so that you can meet the deposit rules for popular locations such as the Los Angeles pickup counters or San Francisco rental desks.
Hola Car Rentals focuses on transparent pricing, All Inclusive Plus rates with maximum coverage and no additional fees, so you always know how much will be held on your card and when it is due to be released. Understanding the payment rules means you can enjoy your road trip without worrying about how you will actually collect the keys.
FAQs
Can I book online with cash and pay everything on arrival? No, online bookings always require a card for security, even if some locations allow you to hand over cash for the final balance. Without a valid card in the main driver's name, suppliers may refuse to release the vehicle.
Do all suppliers accept debit cards? Policies vary a lot between brands and even between branches of the same company. Some airports are comfortable with debit cards while others insist on credit only, especially for higher value vehicles. Always check the payment section of your Hola Car Rentals quote before confirming.
What if I only have a prepaid card? Prepaid cards are accepted in some locations but they can trigger extra checks and higher deposit amounts. If a supplier will not accept your card type, Hola Car Rentals can usually help you find a different partner or a different station that better fits your situation.
With a little preparation you can match your payment method to the right deal and then book confidently with Hola Car Rentals for your next journey.
