When you rent a car in Europe, the company will usually require you to purchase a collision damage waiver (CDW). This isn’t technically insurance, but an agreement that if the car’s damaged, you won’t be financially responsible. CDWs sold by European rental car agencies have a few issues, however: They’re expensive.
Should I get insurance on a rental car abroad?
Make sure you’re covered
Most U.S. auto insurers won’t cover you while you’re driving abroad, with the possible exceptions of Canada and Mexico. So unless you have a credit card that offers rental car insurance, you’ll probably need to purchase your insurance from the rental company itself.
Does my auto insurance cover me in Europe?
Will my car insurance cover me while travelling in another EU country? YES — Your compulsory third-party insurance remains valid if you travel to or temporarily stay in another EU country.
Can foreigners rent a car in Europe?
Passports, Driver’s Licenses, and International Driving Permits. Whether you’re American or Canadian, your passport and driver’s license are all you need in most European countries. However, some countries also require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Do I need to buy additional insurance when renting a car in Europe? – Related Questions
Can I drive a hire car in Europe with UK license?
UK driving licences
UK drivers do not need any extra paperwork or an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a local rental car in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, if you have a card driving licence issued in the UK.
What documents do I need to drive in Europe?
Important documents for driving in Europe
- Full, valid driving licence and national insurance number.
- Proof of vehicle insurance.
- Proof of ID (passport)
- V5C certificate (the ‘log book’)
- Travel insurance documents.
- European Breakdown Cover policy number and documents.
Can I rent a car in Europe with US drivers license?
Take it from the world-renowned expert on travel in Europe, Rick Steves: In most European countries, your American driver’s license and passport are all you need to rent a car.
Can you rent a car in Europe with an American license?
An American or Canadian driver’s license is usually valid for European car rentals, but some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP). They’re not too expensive but it’s an added expense and hassle.
Do I need an international drivers license to rent a car in Italy?
If you’re a non-EU citizen that would like to rent a car in Italy, it’s essential to hold an International Driver’s Permit. The Italian car rental might not ask for it, but it is required by law that you have one, and it may be requested during a police check.
Do I need an international drivers license to rent a car in France?
To rent a car in France, you’ll need: Driver’s license. International Driving Permit (IDP) Valid ID (Driver’s license or passport can be used; for non-EU visitors, an International Driver Permit is required if your license is not written in English.)
Do I need an International Driving Permit for France 2022?
Do I need an International Driving Permit for France? As a general rule, all valid UK photocard driving licences should be accepted in other EU/EEA countries so it’s not necessary to have an International Driving Permit for France.
What rental car insurance do I need in France?
When renting a car in France it is required by law that drivers carry unlimited third party liability insurance, and as a result it is automatically included in the price of all car rentals.
What European countries require international drivers license?
It’s difficult to find an authoritative source. Start by asking your car rental agency or travel agent. In Europe, Austria, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia and Spain require an international driving permit, according to the car rental agency Auto Europe.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to hire a car in Spain?
In order to hire a car in Spain you will need to have a full UK driving licence, an International Driving Permit (if your UK licence was not issued by mainland authorities), your valid passport or National ID card for EU citizens as identification and a credit card to pay for the car hire deposit.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Portugal?
It is not required by law to have an International Driver’s Permit if you’re a non-EU citizen driving in Portugal with an English or Portuguese license. However, if you plan on driving into other countries in Europe, such as Spain, it is a good idea to arrange one.
Can you get International Driving Permit online?
You can’t apply for an international driving permit online. To get your international driver’s licence you need to apply in person at the Post Office.
How long does it take to get an International Driving Permit?
How long does it take to get an IDP? It will take 5-10 minutes to fill out the application, and you can expect to receive your IDP in approximately two weeks.