Article overview

Insurance and deductible

Which insurance policies do you need? What happens if the car gets damaged? And what happens with the deductible? You can read it all on this page. This gives you peace of mind that everything is properly organized for a worry-free car rental. Don't feel like thinking about the particulars? Then check out our Worry-Free selection. These cars meet the most important requirements.

In the event of damage, the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance policy covers most of the costs. This includes situations where you cause the damage or the car is totaled, for example. Please note: you will often have to pay a deductible. In addition, damage to tires, windows, mirrors, the underside, roof, interior and keys are never covered.

Third Party Insurance covers material damage to another car or physical injury to persons who are not riding in your rental car. This coverage is sufficient within the EU. It may be insufficient outside the EU. Check with your rental company, and take out extra coverage at the rental location if necessary.

Theft Protection largely covers the cost of a stolen car. This only applies to the car itself, not to any property in the car. This is covered by your travel insurance, assuming that you have it of course. Please note: Theft Protection also has a deductible.

Deductible: should you take out extra coverage for this or not?

Regardless of how well your rental car is insured, you will often still have to pay an deductible. The amount involved varies between rental companies. However, it is often much higher than the deductible for your car insurance in the US. This means it's a good idea to take out extra coverage for the deductible.

If the rental car gets damaged or stolen, you must pay a deductible. In addition, you must pay a large deposit in advance with a valid credit card in your own name.

The deductible is often high.
The deposit is high.
If the vehicle gets damaged, things can get quite expensive.

Most chosen (71%)

If you take out a covered deductible, you must still pay a deposit when picking up the car. If the car gets damaged, the rental company will charge this deposit to your credit card. We will then refund this amount.

Cheaper than local insurance policies
The full deposit is always returned to you.
You have to pay a deposit at the rental location.

What happens if you choose a car with zero deductible? In most cases, you will pay nothing at all. Sometimes you must still pay a deposit at the rental location, although it will be less. In the event of damage, this will be covered by the rental company.