In general, the rental companies don't require the proof...they just require you to sign that YOU accept responsibility for anything that happens to the car. If you decline the Super CDW and there are damages, they are charged to your credit card (the car rental company will put a hold on your credit card when you pick up the car - it's not a charge, just a hold - for the amount of the deductible...about 800-1,200 until the car is returned). If there is any damage to the car, the reimbursement for the charges are worked out between you and your credit card company.

The written proof is very important,as the people working the phones at the credit card companies often aren't aware of the lack of coverage in places like Ireland and a handful of other countries. Also, it might be handy to show the car rental people as they have dealt with a lot of people who "thought" they were covered but were not...therefore, they stress to visitors that they likely are not covered...a majority are not covered.

In th past, I was required to get the CDW, but my card would take care of the Super CDW. If you decline the CDW, you (or your credit card company) are responsible for the full replacement of the car. Now, my card doesn't cover any insurance in Ireland.

Michele and the others on the board might have some other insight, but these are the details I've become familiar with.

FYI - I once had my credit card company send me the written proof and on the letter it specifically said I wasn't covered in Ireland...just shows that the people on the phone don't know what the letter even says.

-- Edited by yesiree at 08:17, 2008-06-21

hhislim,

Have you read my "Car Rental" page yet? If not read the whole page for clarification. I find that the car companies really don't ask to see written proof. Instead what they should do is phone MasterCard in Ireland, give them your card number and they will tell whether you are approved for CDW coverage or not.

If they really want written proof call 1-800-MC-ASSIST and speak with the people at the master coverage department. Have them send you the little flyer that originally came with your credit card. It spells everything out. You can also ask for a letter. Whether they will provide it or not is up to them. If you run into resistance, speak to a supervisor.

What airport are you flying into? If it is Dublin...good luck!

Michele

Thank y'all for your input. I had contacted MCAssist to get the terms of my coverage and will bring it along as my "written proof".
All the forums report that car rental in Ireland is an unpleasant experience (and, yes, I'll be dealing w/ Dublin Airport). I'm trying to both prepare myself and learn from the "veterans." Expecting the worst and hoping for the best.