Whether you are planning a road trip, going on vacation, or dealing with an accident, renting a car can be a convenient option. However, knowing if your auto insurance will cover you when you are driving a rental car is important. With AAA auto insurance, members usually ask, “Does my AAA insurance cover rental cars?” This is a common question, especially for those who want to stay stress-free while driving a rental vehicle. Let’s review the full details and explore how AAA auto insurance handles rental cars and what coverage you can get for them.
What Is AAA?
The American Automobile Association (AAA) is a nonprofit organization in the United States. It provides various services to its members, mainly related to travel, driving, and vehicle safety. It generally offers roadside assistance, such as towing, battery jump-starts, and tire changes. It also provides travel planning services, discounts on hotels and attractions, auto insurance, and driver education programs. AAA has become a trusted name for helping drivers and travelers with reliable support and benefits across the U.S.
Top Services by The American Automobile Association (AAA):
✔ Roadside assistance (towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes)
✔ Travel planning and hotel discounts
✔ Auto insurance for personal and rental vehicles
✔ Driver education programs
✔ Safety, convenience, and financial protection for its members.
Does My AAA Car Insurance Cover Rental Cars?
Yes, AAA auto insurance often covers rental cars. If you have comprehensive and collision coverage on your personal policy, this protection generally includes a rental vehicle too. This means that in most cases, AAA will cover damage to the rental car in case of an accident, theft, or other covered events. But, this coverage may have limits, so it is important to check the specific details of your policy. When you rent a car, you can usually depend on your AAA insurance to cover the vehicle under the same conditions as your personal car. This is particularly useful for domestic trips within the U.S. because many places accept AAA insurance.
✅ Well, AAA auto insurance often covers rental cars:
✔ If your policy includes collision and comprehensive coverage, it also applies to rental cars.
✔ AAA covers rental car damage from accidents, theft, or vandalism.
✔ Your rental car gets the same coverage as your personal vehicle.
🚨 Notes:
- Coverage may have limits, so check your policy details.
- Coverage usually applies within the U.S., but not all foreign countries.
Does My AAA Insurance Cover a Rental Car During a Trip?
If you rent a car while traveling, AAA auto insurance generally provides the same coverage you have on your vehicle as the rental car. This means if you have liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage, it will apply to the rental car as well. But, remember that some exceptions may apply, especially if you are renting in foreign countries. It is always a good idea to double-check your policy or speak to your agent before you rent. AAA insurance covers most regular rentals. You do not need to buy extra insurance from the rental company if your policy already has the right coverage.
✅ So, your AAA policy covers rental cars while traveling:
✔ If your auto policy includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, your rental car is covered too.
✔ No need to buy extra rental insurance if your policy has full protection.
🚨 Exceptions:
- Some foreign rentals may not be covered.
- Always check with AAA before traveling.
Does AAA Cover Rental Car Reimbursement?
Rental car reimbursement is an additional option that many drivers choose to add to their regular insurance policy. This is a feature that helps cover the cost of a rental car while your car is being repaired after an accident. AAA offers rental car reimbursement as an optional service to add to your policy. If you select this option, AAA will cover the cost of a rental car for a specific number of days while your vehicle is in the shop. This can be particularly useful if your car needs serious repairs, and you do not want to pay from your pocket for a rental. AAA will usually cover up to a certain daily amount, which can differ depending on the level of coverage you choose.
How AAA Works:
| Features | How It Works |
| Covers rental car costs | If your car is in the shop after an accident |
| Optional add-on | Not included in basic AAA insurance |
| Daily limit | AAA pays for a rental car for a set number of days |
Covers rental car costs If your car is in the shop after an accident
Optional add-on Not included in basic AAA insurance
Daily limit AAA pays for a rental car for a set number of days
💡 Tip: Add rental reimbursement to your policy if you rely on a car daily.
Does AAA Cover Rental Car Damage?
Yes, AAA auto insurance often covers rental car damage if you have comprehensive collision coverage on your policy. This means if the rental car is damaged due to an accident, vandalism, or a covered event, AAA will pay for the repairs. It works the same just like they would for your vehicle. However, it is important to be aware of your policy’s deductible. If the damage is small, it might cost less to pay yourself than to file a claim and pay the deductible. So, always check your coverage details before you decide to file a claim.
✅ How AAA works in case of rental car damage:
✔ Covers accidents, vandalism, and theft
✔ Works just like coverage for your personal car
✔ You pay the deductible before AAA covers repairs
🚨Note: If the damage is small, paying out of pocket may be cheaper than filing a claim.
Does AAA Membership Cover Rental Cars After an Accident?
AAA membership comes with several perks, but it does not automatically cover rental cars after an accident. Instead, rental car coverage depends on the type of auto insurance policy you have with AAA. If you have rental reimbursement coverage as part of your policy, then AAA will help cover the cost of a rental while your car is being repaired. Apart from this, AAA members can sometimes get discounts on rental cars through partner companies, making it easier to afford a rental after an accident. You must look for these discounts if you need to rent a vehicle.
📌 How AAA membership works:
✔ If your insurance policy includes rental reimbursement, AAA will pay for a rental.
✔ AAA members get discounts on rental cars from partner companies.
💡 Note: Look for AAA rental discounts if you need a temporary car.
Does AAA Roadside Assistance Cover Rental Cars?
AAA’s famous roadside assistance program generally covers rental cars. If you are an AAA member and you experience a breakdown or need help with a rental car, AAA roadside assistance can help you with several services, like towing, tire changes, and lockout services. This coverage can be really helpful if you are traveling and renting a vehicle in a new location. Keep in mind that the level of roadside assistance may change because of the level of AAA membership you have (e.g., Basic, Plus, or Premier). We recommend you check the rules and details of your plan before taking your rental car on the road.
✅ What AAA roadside assistance usually covers:
✔ Towing services if your rental car breaks down
✔ Flat tire help, jump-starts, and lockout services
✔ Coverage depends on your AAA membership level (Basic, Plus, Premier)
Do You Need Extra Rental Car Insurance?
Even if your AAA auto insurance covers rental cars, you might still need extra coverage based on the rental company’s rules. Most rental companies offer extra insurance, like a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). This can help pay for costs that your insurance does not cover. If you want to avoid paying a high deductible, it might be good to buy extra rental car insurance. Some people like the security of full coverage from the rental company. They buy additional coverage as it makes them feel more protected.
You may need extra insurance if:
✔ Your AAA policy does not include collision or comprehensive coverage
✔ The rental company requires extra coverage
✔ You want to avoid paying a deductible
Rental companies offer:
| Extra Coverage | What It Covers |
| Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) | Protects against damage to the rental car |
| Personal Accident Insurance | Covers medical expenses after an accident |
| Supplemental Liability Insurance | Increases liability protection |
If You Do Not Have Collision or Comprehensive Coverage?
If your AAA auto insurance policy does not have collision or comprehensive coverage, your policy may not cover your rental car for damages. In this case, you may need to buy rental car insurance from the rental company. Some credit cards also offer rental car insurance. Always check your coverage before renting a car. This helps avoid surprises if there is an accident.
🚨 If your AAA policy does not have collision or comprehensive coverage, it will not cover rental car damage.
✔ Options if you don’t have coverage:
- Buy rental car insurance from the rental company
- Use a credit card that offers rental car coverage
Conclusion
Well, there is no doubt that renting a car can be a convenient solution for both everyday and travel situations. With AAA auto insurance, you can feel safe because rental car coverage is usually included in your policy. From damage protection to rental reimbursement, AAA offers a range of options to cover you when driving a rental vehicle. However, it is always better to review your policy carefully or consult with an AAA agent to understand the rental car coverage in your insurance policy.
Whether you are traveling to any US location or need a rental after an accident, AAA’s coverage will protect your rental car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AAA cover rental cars for personal travel?
If you have comprehensive and collision coverage, it typically extends to rental cars for personal use within the U.S. However, it’s best to confirm with your AAA agent.
Do I need additional insurance from the rental company if I have AAA coverage?
Your AAA auto insurance may cover rental cars, but there could be gaps. AAA insurance professionals advise purchasing some or all of the insurance coverage offered by rental car agencies to avoid potential out-of-pocket expenses.
What should I do if I have an accident in a rental car with AAA insurance?
Report the accident to AAA immediately. Your claims agent will assist you with the process and explain your coverage, limits, and deductibles.
Does AAA cover rental cars outside the United States?
AAA’s auto insurance coverage, including rental car coverage, generally applies within the U.S. For international rentals, especially outside of Canada, it’s advisable to purchase insurance from the rental company.
Are there limits to AAA’s rental reimbursement coverage?
Yes, rental reimbursement coverage typically has daily and total limits. For example, your policy might cover up to $30 per day for a maximum of 30 days. Review your policy details or consult your AAA agent for specifics.
