How a PCO car hire deposit works

Most rental companies ask for a deposit before you collect a PCO car. Here is how it works, and what to check before you pay.

Last reviewed 19 October 2026

What the deposit is for

A deposit is money held while you have the car, and given back when you return it without new damage. Many rental companies ask for it before you collect the car. If there is new damage or unpaid rent, they can take money from it. The rest comes back to you.

How much rental companies ask for

It depends on the company and the car. Deposits vary a lot between rental companies, and can be higher for executive cars. On Kharo it is two and a half weeks' rent. Some firms also charge a setup or joining fee. This is not a deposit. You do not get it back.

Check these before you pay a deposit

  • The amount, in writing
  • Is it a deposit or a fee you do not get back?
  • When it comes back after you return the car
  • What they can take money out of it for
  • How much notice you must give to end the hire
  • Photos of the car at collection, so old damage is not charged to you

How the deposit works on Kharo

  • How much Two and a half weeks' rent. For a car in the middle of the range, that is £425. Every car's page shows its amount.
  • Who holds it Kharo holds it, not the rental company.
  • How you pay it Split over your first 2 monthly payments, £212.50 each for that car.
  • Getting it back You and the rental company photograph the car at collection and return. If there is no new damage, you get it all back.
  • PCO car hire in London
  • See the full cost of PCO car hire

More guides

  • What PCO car hire costs What renting a private hire car costs, from the weekly rent to the deposit. The prices come from the cars on Kharo, which show what rental companies charge.
  • PCO car insurance, explained To drive a PCO car for work, you need insurance that covers carrying passengers for money. Here is what to look for before you rent.
  • All guides

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Questions

Do I get my PCO deposit back?

Yes, if you return the car with no new damage and no unpaid rent. Ask the rental company when it comes back before you pay.

Is a setup fee the same as a deposit?

No. A deposit comes back to you at the end. A setup or joining fee does not.

How much is the deposit on Kharo?

The deposit is two and a half weeks' rent, held by Kharo, not the rental company. It is split over your first 2 monthly payments. You get it all back if there is no new damage. The car's page shows the amount.

Can I pay a deposit on Kharo today?

Cars are not booked online yet. You can see the cars and prices now. Register your interest or message us on WhatsApp, and we'll help you arrange a car.