Yes. By law, all rental cars in Italy — including Rome — must be covered by minimum third-party liability insurance. However, that’s often not enough for tourists. Understanding the different types of insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs.
📋 Mandatory Insurance (Always Included)
✅ Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL / RCA)
- Required by law in Italy
- Covers damage or injury you cause to others
- Does NOT cover damage to your own rental car
Most rental companies include this by default in the base price.
🧱 Optional but Strongly Recommended Insurance
🚘 Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
- Covers damage to the rental car (excluding windows/tires)
- Usually comes with deductible (€800–€2,000)
- Often included in rates, but check deductible limits
🔐 Theft Protection (TP)
- Covers the theft of the car or parts
- Also comes with excess/deductible
- Required in some cross-border cases
🛡️ Super CDW / Full Coverage (Zero Excess)
- Waives all deductibles (CDW + TP)
- Reduces your financial responsibility to €0
- Often costs €10–€25/day extra
- Great peace of mind for tourists
🪟 Windscreen, Tires, and Undercarriage Cover
- Not covered by CDW/TP
- Can be added separately or included in premium plans
📲 Should You Use Credit Card Insurance?
Many premium travel credit cards offer collision coverage for rental cars, but:
✅ Ready to Drive in Rome?
Unlock the best rental deals at Rome Airport in seconds. Fast, flexible, and trusted by millions. Don’t miss out!
- 🏦 You must decline CDW from the rental agency
- 🛑 Credit card coverage usually doesn’t include liability or theft
- 📞 Always confirm coverage region (Italy is sometimes excluded)
- 📝 Ask your bank for a letter of coverage before travel
⚠️ Rental companies in Rome may require a large deposit if you use your card’s insurance (~€1,000–€3,000)
💡 Airport vs City Rentals: Insurance Tip
Renting at Fiumicino or Ciampino Airport? Insurance extras tend to be more expensive there. City center rentals (e.g., near Termini) often offer better full coverage rates.
🕵️♂️ People Also Ask
- Is car rental insurance mandatory in Rome?
Yes, third-party liability (RCA) is legally required. - Should I get full insurance on a rental car in Italy?
Highly recommended — accidents and scratches are common. - What happens if I damage a rental car in Rome without insurance?
You may be liable for the full repair cost and fees. - Can I use my US credit card insurance in Italy?
Sometimes — check your issuer’s policy. Liability is rarely covered.
✅ Final Tips for Rental Car Insurance in Rome
- ✅ Always read the rental contract — check for deductible amounts
- 💶 Compare full coverage plans from the agency vs third-party providers
- 📲 Consider buying insurance online before arriving
- 📷 Document the car’s condition at pick-up and drop-off
- 🔍 Ask if tires, glass, and undercarriage are covered
- 🧾 Keep all documents and invoices for possible claims
- 🚧 Avoid unnecessary upgrades or duplicate coverage
📋 Final Summary
To drive legally in Rome, your rental must include third-party liability insurance. For full protection, add CDW, Theft Protection, and ideally zero-excess coverage. Credit card insurance can help, but rarely replaces all forms. Compare plans, understand what’s covered, and drive with confidence.
Protect your trip, your wallet, and your peace of mind. 🇮🇹
