Without Credit Card Morocco Car Hire

What is car hire without a credit card in Morocco?

Most car hire companies around the world require renters to have a credit card in their name, and Morocco is no different. The primary reason for this is that a deposit can be held on the credit card in case something goes wrong. It’s a security net for the car hire company, so it’s typically the preference. However, not everyone has a credit card in their name. There can be a host of reasons as to why someone doesn’t have a credit card in their name, such as bad credit, never having needed one, no fixed address, or simply having forgotten it upon pick-up. It doesn’t – and shouldn’t – mean that they cannot rent a car. So, if you want to hire a car in Morocco without a credit card, we’ve got you covered.

What are the benefits of renting a car without a credit card in Morocco?

While it is generally recommended to put large payments on a credit card, that’s not always possible. And not using a credit card for car hire comes with its benefits too, such as the time you can save. Credit checks can be a time-consuming process, and most of us want to be in and out of the car hire office, ready to start the Moroccan adventure. Additionally, if you didn’t know that the deposit amount will exceed your remaining credit limit and you need to transfer money onto your credit card, this can take time.

Another benefit is not paying the additional charges. This could include international transaction charges or high-interest fees if there are any damages or traffic fines and the deposit is permanently removed from your account.

What are the common policies for car hire in Morocco?

• You must be at least 21 years old to hire a car in Morocco. Some car hire agencies require renters to be at least 25 years old.
• Drivers must have held a full licence for at least 1 year.
• Speeding can result in hefty fines.
• Driving is on the right-hand side.
• Give way to traffic at intersections and roundabouts.

What alternative payment options are available for car hire in Morocco?

If you don’t have a credit card in your name, you still have options. Most car hire agencies in Morocco will accept payment for the rental by debit card. You can usually clear the rental payment with cash, too, but this might vary when it comes to the security deposit. Car hire payments are generally made online – you can opt to pay a portion of the rental payment or pay it off in full. If you don’t have a credit card and are worried about this when you get to the car hire desk, we recommend paying the payment in full online with your debit card.

How can you rent a car without a credit card in Morocco?

If you don’t have a credit card and want to rent a car in Morocco, some companies will accept a debit card for the security deposit. You must ensure that there are sufficient funds in your bank account to cover the payment and be aware that debit card payments can take between 10 and 15 days to return to your account.

Some car hire companies might not accept a debit card for the security deposit payment, but they will ask you to pay for additional insurance.

How can you rent a car with a prepaid card in Morocco?

Unfortunately, most car hire agencies in Morocco do not accept prepaid cards.

How do you rent a car using cash in Morocco?

Some car hire agencies accept cash payment for a deposit in Morocco. There are small, budget car hire agencies, like SurPrice and AcaRent, that accept cash payments.

Can I use a debit card to pay for the security deposit in Morocco?

While most car hire agencies require deposit payment via credit card, some will accept debit card payments. Some car hire companies will say they accept debit payments, but still require a credit card for the security deposit – make sure the company explicitly states that you can pay the deposit with a debit card.

When should you consider renting a car without a credit card in Morocco?

While it is generally recommended to use a credit card when hiring a car, this isn’t always an option. You should consider renting a car without a credit card if:

• You don’t have a credit card: While credit cards are great for protecting yourself in big purchases, and are an excellent way of increasing your credit score, the credit limit can be tempting. If you don’t have a credit card because you find credit limits too tempting, we recommend finding an alternative solution.
• You don’t have enough credit limit on your card: Car hire payments and deposits can be well over £1,000. If you don’t have the credit limit available, you might have to search for another option.
• You want to avoid international fees: Some credit card providers charge international transaction and currency conversion fees. Be sure to check your credit card provider’s international transaction policy – you might be caught short.
• Your card has high interest rates: When a deposit is put on hold on a credit card, it’s not actually taken from the card. There’s a block, so you can’t spend that amount, and this doesn’t affect the amount of interest you pay. However, if something goes wrong and the deposit needs to be permanently taken from the account, this could affect the interest you pay – which can be a significant amount if your card has high interest rates. The further into your credit limit you are, the higher the interest rates.

Why do some car hire companies require a credit card in Morocco?

Most car hire companies require credit cards as it provides a level of security for them. Credit card payments are more traceable than debit card payments, and putting a deposit hold on a credit card means that part or all of the deposit can be recovered if there are any damage or traffic fines. If they put the deposit hold on a debit card and the bank account had insufficient funds, it would be impossible to recover the deposit money.

Why is it important to understand security deposits?

It’s essential to understand security deposits when hiring a car. They’re typically a large amount of money, so it’s important that you know what they include, to ensure you get your full deposit back. If there’s any damage, cleaning charges, or contract breaches, such as exceeding the mileage limit or not returning the vehicle with a full tank of petrol, then the proportionate amount of money will be taken out of the security deposit.

Not only do security deposits protect the car hire supplier, but they also encourage safe driving among renters, who will be out of pocket if something goes wrong. If there is damage or there are other issues that were not your fault, you can claim this back on insurance.

Why should you check local policies and restrictions in Morocco?

It’s always important to brush up on local policies and restrictions in Morocco. Ensure that you understand general driving practices, including child seat restrictions, alcohol limits, and speed limits. It’s a good idea to use a GPS that regularly updates you as the speed limit changes. There is a strong traffic police presence in Morocco, and they will fine you if you are speeding.

Additionally, ensure that you are aware of credit card policies and restrictions for the car hire company that you choose.