Coverage and Card Holds: What to Know Before You Arrive

Choosing coverage is the decision that raises the most questions when renting a car. Here are the essentials, explained clearly, so you reach the counter knowing what you're paying for and why. We also cover what to do if you have a fender bender or a breakdown, and how to check the car at pickup and return so there are no misunderstandings.

The hold on your card

When you pick up the car, a hold is placed on your credit card (Visa, Mastercard or American Express) in the driver's name. It's not a charge: it's released when you return the car in good condition.

• With coverage: US$300 to US$500, depending on the coverage you choose.
• Without coverage: US$1,200 per car.

Before you travel, check with your bank that your card has enough available credit.

How the hold works, step by step

1. At the counter, the amount that matches your coverage is blocked. The money doesn't leave your account, but it's no longer part of your available credit while the rental lasts.
2. During your trip, the hold stays in place. Keep that in mind if you plan to use the same card for your hotel, meals or shopping.
3. When you return the car, its condition and fuel level are checked. If everything is in order, the hold is released.
4. How soon the credit shows up again depends on your bank, not on us. If you're unsure, ask your bank how it handles holds.

Why the card must be in the driver's name

The hold secures the rental, so it has to go on a credit card belonging to the driver who signs the agreement. Bring the physical card with you: you'll need it at the counter.

Coverage options

While you book, you can compare the available coverage options and their daily price. Take your time: the more complete the coverage, the lower the hold and the less you worry about a dent or a scratch.

What choosing coverage means

In plain terms, coverage is the protection you buy for the car during your rental. What changes from one option to another is how much you're responsible for if the car is damaged, and that's reflected in the hold:

• More complete coverage gives you more peace of mind and a lower hold. It's a good idea if you'll drive a lot, take roads you don't know or deal with city traffic.
• More basic coverage costs less per day, but the hold is higher within the US$300 to US$500 range.
• Without coverage, the hold goes up to US$1,200 and any damage is your responsibility under the agreement.

Exactly what each option covers, and what it doesn't, is in the rental agreement. Read it at the counter and ask about anything that isn't clear before you sign.

If your credit card offers rental protection

If your credit card offers rental protection, read its terms before declining coverage: many don't apply outside your home country or have specific requirements.

Before you travel, ask your bank in writing what the card covers in the Dominican Republic, which documents they would ask for if there's damage and whether you'd have to pay first and claim later. With that information you can decide calmly instead of deciding tired at the counter.

Roadside assistance, included

Every rental includes 24/7 roadside assistance nationwide at no extra cost. If the car breaks down, call 809-544-7111 (option 3).

Save the number on your phone before you set off. If you're traveling with someone, make sure they have it too.

What to do if the car breaks down

1. Pull off the road carefully and park somewhere safe, away from traffic.
2. Turn on your hazard lights and, if you need to get out, use the side away from traffic.
3. Call 809-544-7111 (option 3). Have your name, your booking number and a clear idea of where you are ready. Share your location from your phone if you can.
4. Describe what's happening: a flat tire, a warning light on the dashboard, a car that won't start.
5. Follow the instructions you receive, and don't let third parties repair the car without checking with us first.

What to do if you have an accident

1. People first. Make sure everyone is okay. If anyone is hurt, call local emergency services.
2. Get to safety. Turn on your hazard lights and stay away from traffic while you wait.
3. Let us know as soon as possible at the counter where you picked up the car (Las Américas: 809-549-0505; Punta Cana: 809-726-0471) and tell us what happened. We'll explain the next steps under your agreement.
4. Document everything: photos of the car from several angles, of the other vehicles, the license plates, the road and any nearby signs.
5. Write down the details of the other drivers and of any witnesses.
6. Don't sign agreements or pay anything on the spot without checking with us first.

Keep everything together: photos, notes and any paperwork you're given. It will help when you return the car.

How to document the car at pickup and return

A few minutes of checking prevents almost every dispute. Our guide with tips for picking up your car at the airport covers this too.

At pickup

• Walk all the way around the car with the agent.
• Record one continuous video as you walk around it, in good light, and zoom in on any scratch, dent or mark.
• Photograph the tires, the wheels, the windshield and the interior.
• Note the fuel level and take a photo of the dashboard.
• Make sure every detail you see is noted on the agreement before you leave.

At return

• Arrive with time to spare so the check isn't rushed, especially if you have a flight.
• Repeat the video and photos in the same order, including the dashboard with the fuel level.
• Take your things and check the glove box, the trunk and under the seats.
• Keep your files until you see the hold released on your card.

Other rules worth knowing

• The car can't leave the Dominican Republic.
• You can register an additional driver; there may be a daily fee.
• You can return the car at the other airport; additional charges may apply.
• Return it with the same fuel level, or take the prepaid full tank.

If you plan to cross the country, take a look at our route from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana by road.

Common misunderstandings

• "The hold is a charge." It isn't: it's a temporary block that's released when you return the car in good condition.
• "My card covers me in any country." Not always. Many don't apply outside your home country or have requirements. Confirm before you travel.
• "If I decline coverage, nothing changes." The hold goes up to US$1,200 and damage is your responsibility under the agreement.
• "Roadside assistance costs extra." It's included in every rental at no extra cost.
• "A small scratch doesn't matter." If it isn't noted when you leave, it can look new when you return. Photograph everything.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a debit card for the hold?

The hold is placed on a credit card (Visa, Mastercard or American Express) in the driver's name. Bring it with you.

Can I change my coverage at the counter?

It's best to decide while you book, when you can compare calmly. If you have questions on pickup day, ask at the counter before you sign.

Does the assistance work in both Punta Cana and Santo Domingo?

Yes. It's 24/7 nationwide. The Punta Cana Airport guide and the Las Américas guide list each counter's hours.

Where can I check my booking details?

In Manage my booking. For other general questions, see our FAQ.

Questions about your situation? Write to us before you travel and we'll help you choose.