Insurance for rented trucks: who covers what

Updated October 2026

Insurance is the most important thing to settle before you drive a rented truck.

Questions to ask the owner

Does the rental include physical damage coverage for the truck, and what is the deductible? Who provides primary liability: you, the owner or the carrier you run under? Is cargo coverage your responsibility? What happens if the truck is damaged or stolen?

If you run under your own authority

You'll generally need your own liability and cargo coverage, and the owner may require proof before handing over the keys. Get every answer in writing.

Not sure what you need? Use the free coverage checker at CDL Insurances.

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