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The Best Credit Cards for Rental Car Insurance Coverage in 2025
When renting a car, understanding your insurance coverage options is crucial. Credit cards can offer valuable protection through Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) coverage. Let's explore the different types of coverage and the best credit cards that offer this valuable benefit.
Understanding Rental Car Insurance Coverage Types
Before diving into specific credit cards, it's essential to understand the two main types of credit card rental car coverage:
Secondary Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) Coverage
Secondary CDW coverage requires you to file a claim with your personal auto insurance first before the credit card's coverage takes effect. This process can be disadvantageous for several reasons:
- Your insurance premiums might increase following a claim
- You'll need to pay your personal insurance deductible
- The claims process can be more time-consuming
- Administrative fees and loss-of-use charges may not be covered
Primary Collision Damage Waiver Coverage
Primary CDW coverage provides immediate protection without involving your personal auto insurance. Benefits include:
- Direct claims process with the credit card company
- No impact on your personal insurance premiums
- Coverage for loss-of-use charges and administrative fees
- More comprehensive international rentals coverage
The 5 Best Credit Cards for Primary Car Rental Insurance
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best Overall Value
The Chase Sapphire Preferred stands out as our top recommendation for rental car insurance coverage. This card offers comprehensive primary rental car coverage while maintaining a reasonable annual fee.
Key Benefits:
- Primary rental car insurance worldwide
- Up to 5x Ultimate Rewards points on travel purchases
- 10% anniversary points bonus
- $50 annual hotel credit
- No foreign transaction fees
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Premium Benefits
The Capital One Venture X elevates the rental car experience with premium benefits and exceptional rewards:
- Primary Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
- Exclusive Hertz President's Circle status
- 10x miles on car rentals through Capital One Travel
- Up to $300 annual travel credit
- Complimentary authorized user cards
Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Luxury Travel Protection
The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers premium rental car coverage with higher insurance limits:
- Primary CDW coverage up to $75,000
- 10x points on rental cars through Chase Travel
- $300 annual travel credit
- Premium rental car privileges with National, Silvercar, and Avis
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
The Platinum Card® from American Express: Luxury Travel Benefits
While offering secondary coverage by default, the Amex Platinum card provides the option to purchase Premium Car Rental Protection for primary coverage:
- Optional primary coverage ($12.25-$24.95 per rental)
- Comprehensive travel benefits package
- Multiple annual statement credits
- Elite status with major hotel chains
- Extensive airport lounge access
American Express® Gold Card: Everyday Rewards
The Amex Gold card combines secondary rental coverage with outstanding rewards for everyday spending:
- Optional Premium Car Rental Protection available
- 4x points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
- Up to $424 in annual statement credits
- No foreign transaction fees
- Excellent travel insurance benefits
Consider Using Kudos to Maximize Your Benefits
If you're looking to get the most value from your credit cards when renting cars, consider downloading Kudos. This free AI-powered browser extension helps you:
- Automatically choose the best card for rental car bookings
- Track your rewards and benefits
- Multiply your rewards up to 5X during Flash Boost events
- Get personalized card recommendations
Currently, Kudos is offering $20 back after your first eligible purchase — just sign up for free with code "GET20" and make a purchase at a Boost merchant.
Our Expert Takeaway
When choosing a credit card for rental car insurance, consider your travel frequency, spending habits, and whether you need primary or secondary coverage. The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers the best overall value for most travelers, while premium cards like the Capital One Venture X and Chase Sapphire Reserve provide additional luxury benefits for frequent travelers.
Rental Car Insurance FAQ
What's the difference between CDW and LDW coverage?
CDW covers collision damage, while LDW typically provides broader coverage including theft and other types of damage.
How do I file a claim for rental car damage?
Contact your credit card's benefits administrator, complete the claim form, and submit required documentation including the rental agreement, police report, and damage statement.
Are there any exclusions to credit card rental car coverage?
Yes, common exclusions include luxury vehicles, certain countries, business rentals, and rentals exceeding 31 days.
Does credit card insurance cover liability?
Most credit card rental car insurance doesn't include liability coverage. Consider purchasing additional liability insurance or using your personal auto insurance policy.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Typically, you must notify the benefits administrator within 60 days of the incident and submit all documentation within 100 days.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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