How can I hire a car without an excess or deposit?

Short answer

The excess and the deposit are two different things

• The deposit is mandatory
• The deposit is fully refundable if the vehicle is returned in the same condition in which it was collected
• The renter is liable for the car hire vehicle. This liability may be limited up to the amount of the excess (in some cases this limitation may be included in your rate).

Long answer

The deposit is mandatory and in the case of Enterprise is set at €200 for cars and SUVs of the Mini, Economy, Compact, Intermediate and Standard categories, plus Compact & Intermediate Cargo Vans. 

A higher deposit is required: €400 for all other Cargo Vans. 

For Elite, Premium, Luxury and Convertible vehicles, and Large Passenger Vans the deposit is €400 and must be paid by credit card. 

For cars or SUVs of the Compact Elite, Full Size, Premium or Luxury categories, two bank cards are required as an additional guarantee of which one must be a valid credit card. Cash payments may be allowed, but the deposit must be paid by debit or credit card and the deposit will be a minimum of 500 EUR. But don't worry, it's refundable as long as the vehicle is returned in the same condition it was picked up. 

The lessee is responsible for the car hire vehicle in case of damage due to accident or theft. This liability may be limited to the amount of the excess (in some cases this limitation may be included in your rate).