Car Rental Insurance FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about coverage, pricing, claims, and eligibility. Skip the counter guesswork and get what you need in minutes.
Find answers to common questions about coverage, claims, and pricing. Each answer links to the page with full details.
Coverage
What is Renter's Contingent Liability Insurance (RCLI)?
RCLI provides liability coverage for rental car customers who lack their own adequate insurance, protecting against third-party claims during the rental period. See full details on the RCLI page.
What is Collision Damage Warranty (CDW), and how does it work?
CDW covers damage to your rental vehicle from a vehicle-on-vehicle collision, protecting you from out-of-pocket repair expenses. Learn more on the CDW page.
What does Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) cover?
SLI adds excess liability up to $100,000, with $20,000 bodily injury per person, on top of RCLI or your personal policy. See the SLI page.
Are my personal belongings covered in the rental car?
Personal Effects Insurance covers luggage and belongings up to $500 if stolen or damaged, excluding electronics, sunglasses, currency, and digital items. See PAI & PEI.
Does Personal Effects Insurance (PEI) cover items left in plain sight?
Yes. PEI covers belongings stolen from the rental car, including items in plain sight, with the standard exclusions for electronics, sunglasses, currency, and digital items.
How do I know how much coverage I need?
It depends on your rental and whether you have your own policy. Compare all five plans on the coverage options page to match protection to your trip.
Pricing & Duration
How much does rental car insurance cost?
Daily rates by plan: RCLI $22.99–$29.99, CDW $25.99–$39.99, SLI $11.99, PAI & PEI $9.99, and 24/7 Roadside $6.99.
Can I buy insurance for a rental period exceeding 24 hours?
Yes. Coverage runs in consecutive 24-hour periods for the term you purchase, up to 30 days.
Is rental car insurance worth it?
It covers damage, liability, theft, and injuries your personal policy or credit card may leave open, and protects your own policy from a claim. Plans start at $6.99 per day. Explore coverage options to compare.
Eligibility & Availability
Can I purchase coverage as a foreign visitor renting a car in the United States?
Yes. Coverage is available to U.S. residents and international visitors renting cars in the United States.
Is coverage available nationwide in the United States?
Coverage applies across the United States, with the exception of rentals picked up in New York, Michigan, or the City of Philadelphia, PA.
When does coverage need to be purchased?
Daily rates are set for value against rental counter prices, with clear terms and no hidden fees. See how it works.
Claims & Refunds
What should I do if I need to file a claim?
Contact Car Rental Association Inc. at claims@carrentalassociation.com or (843) 385-4041, or submit the claims form. Include clear photos of the vehicle's exterior taken before and after the rental period.
Can I get a refund if my plans change?
Yes. Cancel before your scheduled start date for a full refund. On early return, unused days are refundable, less a 3.5% processing fee. See the refund policy.
Why buy through CarRentalInsurance.com instead of the rental counter?
Daily rates are set for value against rental counter prices, with clear terms and no hidden fees. See how it works.