Can you rent without a credit card?
Some rental offers may accept a debit card or another permitted payment method, while others require a credit card in the main driver's name. There is no single rule across all suppliers, locations or vehicle groups.
The safest approach is to check the payment-card section of the specific rental conditions before paying. Do not assume that a card accepted for online payment will automatically be accepted for the security deposit at the desk.
What to check before booking
Check the card type accepted at pick-up, the name required on the card, security-deposit amount, available funds or credit, card expiry date and whether premium vehicle groups have stricter requirements.
If your priority is avoiding a credit card, compare offers first and reject any option whose pick-up conditions do not match the card you will physically carry.
Airport rentals
Rules can differ even between suppliers operating at the same airport. Compare the actual offer conditions at Rome Fiumicino, Milan Malpensa, Catania, Palermo and other arrival airports.