Which German Credit Cards Offer Rental Car Insurance as a Perk?

Many German residents who wish to obtain international car insurance seem to underestimate the value credit cards offer in terms of providing extra perks. 

One of such benefits that often goes unnoticed is rental car insurance. If you’re a German resident or expat who frequently rents cars either in Germany or abroad, having a credit card that offers rental car insurance can save you hundreds of euros in coverage fees.

In this post, I’ll break down how rental car insurance via credit cards works, which German credit cards offer the best coverage, and how to choose the right card for your travel and insurance needs.

What is Rental Car Insurance from Credit Cards?

Rental car insurance from credit cards is a form of coverage automatically provided when you use that card to pay for your rental vehicle. Typically, this insurance covers collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW). This means you may not need to purchase the rental company’s insurance if your credit card already provides adequate coverage.

However, it’s important to read the fine print. Not all cards offer the same level of coverage. Some may exclude certain types of vehicles or countries. Others may require full payment and booking under the same card.

Why Credit Card Rental Insurance Matters

According to Statista, over 22% of Germans travel internationally each year. Many opt to rent vehicles, especially in tourist-friendly countries like Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, etc. Rental car companies often charge an additional €15 to €30 per day for basic insurance. Over a two-week rental, that can total €420. With the right credit card, you can skip this cost.

Moreover, in countries like the United States, where car rental insurance can be costly, your German-issued card could provide a financial cushion, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.

Also Read:

Top German Credit Cards That Offer Rental Car Insurance

Let’s explore the most reliable credit cards in Germany that include rental car insurance as a built-in perk.

1. American Express Gold Card (Germany)

Location: Nationwide

Unique Benefit: The AMEX Gold Card covers damage and theft of rental cars up to €75,000. This includes worldwide coverage, which is ideal for frequent travelers.

Key Conditions: The rental must be paid in full using the card. It excludes coverage for vehicles rented for more than 31 days or certain luxury models.

Annual Fee: €144

Why It’s Great: Ideal for those who rent cars internationally. The global reach and high coverage limit make it a top choice.

2. Hanseatic Bank GenialCard

Location: Hamburg-based but available across Germany

Unique Benefit: While the GenialCard doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, it offers optional insurance packages, including travel insurance that can cover rental car liability in Europe.

Key Conditions: Insurance needs to be activated. It is not automatically included.

Annual Fee: €0

Why It’s Great: A good budget option for occasional renters. No foreign exchange fees add extra value.

3. DKB Visa Card

Location: Headquartered in Berlin

Unique Benefit: For Aktivkunden (active customers who deposit at least €700 monthly), DKB provides a travel insurance package including rental car insurance.

Key Conditions: You must be an active customer and use the card to pay the full rental cost.

Annual Fee: €0 (conditions apply)

Why It’s Great: Great for frequent DKB users. The card also offers global ATM withdrawals without extra charges.

4. Barclays Visa Credit Card

Location: Operates under Barclays Bank Ireland PLC

Unique Benefit: The Barclays Platinum Double package includes rental car insurance, trip cancellation, and baggage loss coverage.

Key Conditions: Insurance is available only when you opt for the Platinum package.

Annual Fee: Around €99

Why It’s Great: Solid for those who want more than just rental car insurance—great overall travel coverage.

5. N26 You Account (with Mastercard)

Location: Berlin

Unique Benefit: Includes travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance, covering rental vehicle excess up to €20,000.

Key Conditions: Must pay for the rental using the N26 card and only valid for trips up to 90 days.

Monthly Fee: €9.90

Why It’s Great: Perfect for digital nomads. Fully app-based with a modern user interface and strong international features.

Also Read:

How to Get the Best Credit Cards in Germany (Step-by-Step)

1. Check Your Credit Score: Before applying, ensure your SCHUFA score is healthy. Most providers in Germany check this before approval.
2. Compare Benefits: Visit comparison platforms like Check24 or Verivox. Filter cards with travel perks and insurance.
3. Read the Fine Print: Focus on rental car insurance clauses. Understand what is covered and what’s not.
4. Apply Online: Most banks now allow full online application and identity verification.
5. Activate the Insurance: Some cards require you to opt in or activate insurance via online banking or a call center.

What Rental Car Insurance from Credit Cards Typically Covers

If you use any of the German credit cards we listed above, here are the things your rental car insurance policy will cover:

• Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
• Theft Protection
• Tow Services (in some cases)
• Third-Party Liability (rarely included)

Note: Credit card coverage often acts as secondary insurance. In Germany, car rentals already come with mandatory liability insurance. Your card’s policy may supplement this.

What It Doesn’t Cover

• Damage to luxury or exotic vehicles
• Personal injury to driver or passengers
• Long-term rentals (over 31 days)
• Damage incurred while violating traffic laws

Real-Life Scenario from My Practice

One of my clients, Thomas from Munich, used his AMEX Gold Card to rent a car in California. The vehicle was broken into, and his card’s insurance covered over $2,000 in damages. He avoided paying out-of-pocket expenses, all thanks to knowing his credit card perks. You save a lot of money by simply knowing the perks that come with your credit card.

Also Read:

Final Thoughts

Rental car insurance through German credit cards is a powerful benefit. It not only saves you money but also offers peace of mind when traveling abroad. With the right card, like the AMEX Gold, DKB Visa, or N26 You Account, you get a blend of convenience, coverage, and added travel features. Just make sure you read the terms and pay for your rental entirely with the card.

If you’re a frequent traveler, especially outside Germany, investing in a premium card with rental car insurance could be one of the smartest financial decisions you make this year.

Would you need my personalized recommendation in choosing a good credit card with a rental car insurance perk? Send an email to [email protected].