Why Trust MoneySmart?When renting a car in Singapore, you’ll get the best value from your credit card when you use a broad-based card rather than a card with bonus categories.
Car rentals and car-sharing in Singapore are usually processed under merchant category code (MCC) 7512, or somewhere in the auto-rental range (3351–3500). Most Singapore cards don't count this as dining, online shopping, or any other bonus category, so you'll typically only earn the base rate on this spend.
That's why a broad-based card—one with strong unlimited cashback or flexible rewards points—beats a card that saves its best rates for niche categories. Some premium cards throw in car rental perks like status or upgrades, but for most cardholders, the real choice is simpler: solid cashback versus flexible points on your rental spend.
Top credit cards for car rentals
Credit card | Best for | Main benefit | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|
Hassle-free cashback | 1.7% unlimited cashback on practically all retail spend, including auto rentals (Amex acceptance required) | $196.20 (first year waived) | |
Online bookings | S$5 = 10 DBS Points (4 mpd) for online transactions—check that your rental or car-sharing platform codes is eligible | $196.20 | |
Online bookings | S$1 = 10X Points (4 mpd) on contactless and online spending | $0 | |
Partner discounts | Up to 20% off on Avis standard rates | $196.20 (waived first 3 years) | |
American Express The Platinum Card | Premium perks & upgrades | Premium travel status and lifestyle perks, including complimentary enrolment into Hertz Gold Rewards® Five Star for special upgrades and priority service | $1,744 |
Matching your card to how you rent
Cashback, no conditions attached: Cards like the UOB Absolute Cashback earn a flat rate on car rentals same as everywhere else, so you're never at the mercy of merchant codes or bonus category exclusions.
Points, but only if you book online: DBS Woman's World Card and HSBC Revolution both offer strong rewards—but only if your rental or car-sharing platform processes the transaction as an online purchase. Book through a traditional counter or an agency that codes differently, and you'll drop to the base rate.
Partner discounts: Maybank Platinum Visa skips the rewards game entirely, giving you a straight discount off Avis rates instead—great if you rent through Avis specifically.
Premium perks over pure rewards: Amex The Platinum Card trades a high annual fee for status upgrades and travel perks with partner rental agencies—a fit for frequent renters who'll actually use the extras, not for occasional bookings.
Important tips for renting in Singapore
Physical credit card required: Car rental companies typically require a physical credit card (not debit or prepaid) in the main driver’s name to hold a deposit. Digital-only or virtual cards are usually not accepted at the rental desk.
MCC matters: Most car rentals and car-sharing platforms are coded under MCC 7512. This code is usually not eligible for dining, grocery, or travel bonus rewards, but is generally covered for unlimited cashback and base earn rates.
Car-sharing vs traditional rental: Car-sharing providers (e.g., GetGo, Tribecar) use similar MCCs, so the same card logic applies. When in doubt, use a broad unlimited cashback card.
Check the fine print: Bank exclusion lists and campaign periods can shift. Always double-check your card’s latest T&Cs to confirm rewards for auto rental or car-sharing transactions.
Partner tie-ups: Look out for seasonal rental promotions or partnerships (e.g., cards offering extra discounts with specific platforms or status perks like Hertz or Avis upgrades).
MoneySmart Tip
Use trusted online comparison tools like MoneySmart's credit card comparison to explore rewards, cashback rates, annual fees, and eligibility across major banks in Singapore—helping you find the card that best suits your spending habits, quickly.
