In Italy, all car rentals are required to include Liability coverage which covers personal injuries to persons in the other vehicle. Liability coverage also covers property damage caused to other cars or property.

Rental cars also must include fire protection in case the rental car catches fire.

This leaves you needing to foot the bill for Collision Coverage for the car you rent and Theft Protection in case the car is stolen.

You also need to think about medical expenses for yourself and your passengers in the event you cause an accident and you or your passengers are injured. Some travel insurance policies and Medicare secondary policies will cover these types of medical expenses.

Americans renting cars in Italy also are legally required to have an International Drivers Permit (IDP) which can be obtained at any American Automobile Association office for about $30.

Posted by ekscrunchy

new york

10/04/25 07:25 PM

732 posts

I rented via AutoEurope for decades, until a few years ago when I changed to Sixt. They have been wonderful for me in both Italy and in Spain. I take all of the insurances and no deductible. (I also get GPS in the car!!)

Posted by sanomh

10/04/25 08:09 PM

310 posts

I've been using autoeurope as well. Often through them I book with europcar but have also had avis and hertz. When driving internationally I always get the zero deductible full coverage through the car rental agency. (Although I never get extra insurance for US rentals, my own auto insurance will cover that.) I just feel like I'd rather have the full coverage for peace of mind. Always worrying about a scratch or dent or broken side mirror etc, is not conducive to have a enjoyable vacation in my mind.
With Autoeruope, I filter on zero deductible insurance at the beginning and get it when I reserve the car.