Your three coverage options
| Option | What it covers | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Your personal auto policy | Often extends to a rental (collision + liability) if you're insured back home | US policies rarely cover international renters; check your deductible |
| Credit card coverage | Usually secondary damage/theft (CDW) when you pay with that card | Almost never covers liability; you must decline the rental company's CDW |
| Rental company protection | CDW/LDW (damage & theft to the rental) + SLI (liability to others) | Added daily cost — but no claim on your own policy |
What the coverages actually mean
- CDW / LDW (Collision/Loss Damage Waiver): waives your responsibility for damage or theft to the rental car itself. This is the big one.
- SLI (Supplemental Liability): covers injury or damage you cause to other people and property beyond the state minimum.
- Third-party liability: the base legal coverage for others — iRent includes this so you're road-legal from the start.
So do you actually need to buy it?
If you have a US auto policy and a credit card that covers rentals, you may be able to decline extra coverage. If you're an international visitor, or you don't want a fender-bender hitting your own premium, the rental company's CDW + SLI is the simplest full protection. At iRent you can add exactly what you need — no bundled fluff.
🛡️ Tip: never assume — confirm your card's coverage in writing before you decline. A single at-fault accident without coverage can cost far more than a few days of CDW.
Frequently asked questions
Is insurance required to rent a car in Florida?
The rental car must be insured to be driven, but you don't have to buy a new policy. You can use your own auto insurance, credit-card coverage, or the rental company's protection. iRent includes third-party liability and offers CDW and SLI.
What is CDW and do I need it?
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) waives your responsibility for damage or theft to the rental car. You need it unless your personal policy or credit card already covers the rental's damage.
Does my credit card cover a rental car?
Many cards offer secondary damage/theft coverage if you pay with that card and decline the rental company's CDW. They almost never cover liability. Confirm your card's terms in writing.
Do international visitors need rental insurance?
Usually yes. Foreign and US personal policies often don't extend to visitors, so the rental company's CDW + SLI is the simplest full coverage. iRent can set this up for you.