Can I rent a car in Norway with a debit card?
Debit, credit and prepaid cards at Norwegian rental desks.
Short answer
You can often rent a car in Norway with a debit card, since Avis accepts Visa and Mastercard debit cards, but Sixt can demand a credit card. The card must be in the main driver's name, and Avis may want one credit and one debit card for higher-value cars. Prepaid cards are not accepted at the Avis counter.
Why
- Avis says the name on the payment card must match the main driver's licence, and someone else cannot pay on the driver's behalf.
- Sixt's Norwegian rental terms say the company always has the right to require a credit card, and that you must bring the same card you booked with.
- Sixt reserves an amount on the card based on the agreed rental period and can later charge tolls, fuel or damage to the card you used.
Details
At Avis, prepaid cards can be used online and to pay at the end of the rental, but a card that is not prepaid must also be shown at the counter. Avis accepts Maestro only in Germany, so a Maestro card will not work for a rental in Norway. Visit Norway adds that some firms ask you to have held your driving licence for at least one year.
Tip
Bring the same card you booked with, in the main driver's name, and check that its limit covers the amount the company reserves at pickup.
What may differ
Payment rules vary by company, car class and branch, and Avis itself refers customers to location-specific terms, so check the conditions of the office where you collect the car.
Common misconception
You always need a credit card to rent a car in Norway.
What actually happens
Avis accepts Visa and Mastercard debit cards, although some companies, such as Sixt, keep the right to require a credit card.
People also ask
- Which car rental companies in Norway accept debit cards?
- Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Norway?
Sources
- Avis: Can I pay with a debit card?Checked at:
- Sixt Norway: rental terms and conditionsChecked at:
- Visit Norway: Getting around by carChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check the rental company's terms before you travel.
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