Does my auto insurance cover rental cars?

There’s no need to pay extra for rental insurance when your personal coverage or credit card likely already offers the same benefits.

At the rental car company, you will probably be asked if you want to buy their insurance. The attendant may rattle off a list of things that could go wrong if you don’t purchase it. In the moment, buying insurance can feel like your only option.

Does your auto insurance cover rental cars?

The short answer is yes, the vast majority of auto insurance policies will extend coverage to a rental car.

There are, however, some exceptions and things to be aware of. Read on to learn more about how your auto insurance coverage applies to rental cars.

Do I need insurance for a rental car?

If you have your own auto insurance policy, in most cases you will not need to purchase additional insurance for a rental car. Your personal auto insurance should extend to cover any car you drive, including a rental car.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. If you don’t own a car or your auto insurance policy has lapsed, you will need to purchase insurance for the rental car.

You may also need to purchase insurance for a rental car if you’re traveling outside of the United States. Most domestic auto insurance policies will not cover you in foreign countries.

If you’re unsure whether your personal auto insurance will cover a rental car, it’s always best to check with your insurer before you rent.

What does auto insurance coverage on a rental car?

In most cases, your personal auto insurance will provide the same coverage for a rental car as it does for your own car. This includes liability coverage, collision and comprehensive coverage, and medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP).

• Liability coverage is required in almost every state and it will protect you if you’re at fault in an accident that injures another person or damages their property.
• Collision and comprehensive coverage will protect you if your rental car is damaged in an accident or stolen. This coverage is not required by law but it may be required by the rental car company.
• Medical payments or personal injury protection will cover your medical expenses if you’re injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

If you have full coverage on your own car, you should have full coverage on a rental car as well.