Debit card screenings at car rental companies are what they sound like: If you are renting a car with your debit card, the company "screens" your usage for overdrafts or low balances. Checks are performed through credit companies such as Equifax Credit Information Services. Typically, only debit cards with Visa or MasterCard logos can be used.
Car rental agencies that allow rentals with debit cards often require you to have enough cash in your account to cover the duration of the rental, plus enough for any additional charges that may occur due to damage. These "damage deposits" range from 15 percent of your total rental bill up to $500.
Rental agencies put holds on the total for the charge for your rental plus the damage deposit. Damage deposit refunds are given to cars returned up to the agency's standards, but holds can take up to two weeks to return to your checking account. Thoroughly review the rental car company's policy on charges to avoid overdraft fees.
