Creditcard in the main driver's name

Preview

Almost all car rental locations require the presentation of a physical credit card in the name of the main driver when picking up the rental car. Even if you have already paid for the car via iDeal, for example. This is mainly due to the deposit. If you do not have a credit card in the name of the main driver, in most cases you will not get the hire car. But why is this necessary and what are your options? We are happy to explain how it works.

Why have a credit card in the name of the main driver

Most rental locations ask for a credit card in the name of the main driver to pick up the car. This is because the main driver is the one responsible for the car and therefore the one held liable should anything happen. The credit card is only required for pick-up and is not connected to how you paid for your Alamo.com rental car.

The deposit

A deposit is almost always deducted from your credit card on site. Sometimes this deposit has the amount of the excess, but it can also be lower. In all cases, this deposit is to cover the excess, uninsured damage and/or any fines. The cost of any damage or fines may be higher than the security deposit amount. If you return the car without any problems, the deposit will be released by the rental location. This takes a maximum of six weeks.

A valid credit card

When renting a car, there are normally several issues concerning your credit card. We explain the most important aspects for you.

  • Accepted credit cards
    The following credit cards are widely accepted: Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
  • Passport holder name
    Make sure the name of the main driver according to passport matches the name on the credit card and reservation. Even if the credit card belongs to the employer, the name of the main driver should be on the credit card.
  • Provide a PIN.
    Entering a PIN is a requirement when picking up the hire car. Unlike your debit card, however, not a PIN is not always standard with a credit card. Not sure if there is a PIN code on the credit card? If so, check with your provider in time so that you can pick up the hire car without any worries.
  • Deposit limit
    As the deposit is reserved or sometimes charged, it is important that the limit on the credit card is sufficient. Check the rental terms and conditions to see what the deposit amount is at your destination or ask our customer service department.
  • Physical card required
    Digital credit cards or credit card details without the card are not accepted. You should therefore bring your physical card with you at all times. Please refer to the country-specific conditions for exceptions and/or more details.
  • Two credit cards
    For some countries, such as Spain, Hungary, Portugal and Turkey, it is compulsory to bring two credit cards in case you rent specific (more luxurious) car types. Please contact our customer service team for more information.

No credit card? Add an additional driver

Does the main driver not have a credit card in his/her own name? Then the easiest solution is to register that person as an additional driver and make someone else from the travel party the main driver who does have their own credit card. You can do this even if this person has little or no desire to drive. If you are both registered as drivers, it does not matter who drives the car. Just make sure that the main driver has a valid driving licence and that you have all required documents at hand when picking up the car. If the main driver cannot provide all documents and credit card and does not take the car on that basis, this is considered a no-show and you will not be eligible for a refund of the prepaid amount. Do you have any further questions, for example about renting a car without a credit card? Please contact one of our employees.

Find your rental car directly