Category: Car Rental Guides

When renting a car in Malta, one of the most confusing choices you’ll face is whether to pay extra for Full Damage Waiver (FDW). Rental companies often promote it as the “worry-free” option, but it comes at a daily cost that can quickly add up over the course of your trip.

So, is FDW worth it? The short answer is: for many travelers, yes — but it depends on your budget, driving confidence, and comfort with financial risk. To help you make the right choice, here’s what you need to know about FDW, how it works in Malta, and the details most rental desks won’t emphasize.

What Is Full Damage Waiver (FDW) in Malta Car Rentals?

FDW is an optional insurance upgrade that removes or significantly reduces the excess (deductible) you’d otherwise be responsible for if your rental car is damaged, stolen, or vandalized.

With standard CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), you’re still on the hook for a high excess amount — often €500 to €1,800+ depending on the car type. FDW takes that liability away, meaning you walk away with little to no out-of-pocket cost if something goes wrong.

In short:

• CDW = included, but leaves you with a big excess.
• Super CDW = lowers excess to around €100–€275.
• FDW = removes excess completely (zero liability in most cases).

This is why many renters who want complete peace of mind consider FDW a worthwhile upgrade, especially if they’re new to driving abroad or don’t want to worry about every scratch.

How FDW Works in Malta

When you choose FDW, your excess liability is eliminated or reduced to a token amount. For example:

• Without FDW: your rental has a €1,200 excess. If the car is stolen or suffers €1,000 damage, you pay the full €1,000.
• With FDW: that same damage could cost you nothing, since the waiver removes the excess.

It typically applies to accidents, theft, attempted theft, and vandalism. However, some companies still require a deposit hold on your credit card, which can range from about €150 for economy cars to several thousand euros for luxury models. The deposit is usually returned if no terms are broken.

FDW coverage is valid across both Malta and Gozo, so you’re protected whether you’re navigating Valletta’s traffic or taking the Gozo Channel ferry to explore quieter island roads.

What FDW Typically Excludes

It’s important to note that FDW does not make you invincible. Certain damages are almost always excluded, meaning you’d still be liable if they occur. These usually include:

• Tires and wheels
• Windscreens, windows, and mirrors
• The undercarriage and roof
• Soft tops on convertibles
• Lost or stolen keys
• Interior damage or personal belongings left in the car
• Damages caused by negligence (e.g., drunk driving, ignoring rental rules)

These exclusions are why even with FDW, some renters choose to add specific cover for tires and glass, or rely on third-party excess insurance that covers these gaps.

FDW Costs in Malta – What to Expect

The cost of FDW varies by rental company, car group, and even the season. On average, you can expect to pay:

• €15–€20 per day for smaller cars
• €20–€30 per day or more for SUVs, vans, and premium models

Other factors include the driver’s age (younger drivers may face higher fees) and the length of your rental (longer bookings sometimes bring discounted daily rates). While the extra daily cost adds up, it can save you thousands if damage or theft occurs.

For example, two weeks in Malta with an SUV might cost €280 extra for FDW — but that’s a lot less stressful than having €1,800 blocked on your credit card or worse, paying it if something happens.

FDW vs CDW vs Super CDW – Key Differences

To put FDW in context, here’s how it compares to other coverage types:

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Included in most Malta rentals. Protects you from full liability but leaves you with a high excess (€500–€1,800+).
• Super CDW (SCDW): Optional upgrade. Reduces excess to about €100–€275. Affordable but doesn’t eliminate liability.
• FDW (Full Damage Waiver): Optional upgrade. Removes excess completely, giving you the highest level of cover available.

In short: CDW is the minimum, Super CDW is a middle ground, and FDW is the maximum coverage most rental companies in Malta offer.

Is Full Damage Waiver Worth It in Malta?

For many travelers, the answer is yes. FDW buys peace of mind, which is especially valuable if:

• You’re driving in Malta for the first time and adjusting to left-hand traffic.
• You’re planning a longer stay where the risk of an incident increases.
• You’re renting a higher-value vehicle with a very high excess.

However, if you’re only in Malta for a short trip, or you already have third-party excess insurance that covers you, FDW may not be essential. It ultimately depends on how much risk you’re comfortable carrying.

Alternatives to FDW in Malta

Not sure FDW is right for you? Here are alternatives:

• Super CDW: Lower daily cost, but you’ll still have a small excess if damage occurs.
• Third-party excess insurance: Often cheaper and may cover things FDW excludes (like tires or windscreens). You pay upfront and claim later.
• Credit card insurance: Some premium cards offer rental coverage, but not all Maltese providers accept this as a replacement.

These options can save money, but they also require more legwork and sometimes slower claim processes.

Tips Before Buying FDW in Malta

• Always read the rental terms carefully to confirm what’s included.
• Ask if a deposit hold is still required with FDW.
• Confirm coverage applies in both Malta and Gozo if you plan to travel between islands.
• Take photos of the car at pickup and drop-off to avoid disputes.
• Ask specifically about “loss of use” fees — some companies charge for time the car is off the road, and FDW may not cover this.

Final Verdict – Is FDW Worth It for Your Malta Trip?

Full Damage Waiver is the highest level of protection you can buy for a rental car in Malta. It eliminates the excess, takes away financial risk, and makes driving less stressful — especially in busy towns like Valletta or on the winding roads of Gozo. While it costs more per day, many travelers find the peace of mind well worth it.

If you’re on a tight budget or confident in your driving, you might stick with CDW or Super CDW, or rely on third-party cover. But if you’d rather not think twice about liability, FDW is the worry-free option.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Malta and aren’t sure which insurance is right for you, feel free to contact us. We’ll help you compare options so you can explore Malta and Gozo with confidence.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Malta, understanding insurance options is just as important as choosing the right vehicle. Car rental insurance in Malta usually includes some form of basic protection, but many travelers are caught off guard by high excess fees and exclusions that aren’t always obvious at first glance.

The good news is that once you know what’s covered and what isn’t, you can make smarter decisions, avoid unnecessary stress, and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

What Does Car Rental Insurance in Malta Include?

Most car rentals in Malta automatically include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Damage Waiver (TDW) in the price. These policies protect you against the cost of repairing or replacing the rental car if it’s damaged in an accident, vandalized, or stolen. They are the foundation of car rental insurance, and without them, you could be liable for the entire cost of the vehicle.

However, while CDW and Theft coverage give you essential protection, they do not eliminate all financial responsibility. This is where the concept of the “excess” comes in.

Understanding the Excess (Deductible) in Malta Car Rentals

Every car rental insurance policy in Malta comes with an excess, also known as a deductible. This is the maximum amount you’ll need to pay out of pocket if something happens to the car. The rental company covers the rest.

Excess amounts typically range from €350 to €1,000 or more, depending on the car group and the provider. Smaller economy cars usually have a lower excess, while SUVs, vans, or luxury models can carry a much higher one.

For example, if your excess is €750 and you cause €500 worth of damage, you’ll pay the full €500. If the damage is €3,000, you’ll only pay €750, and the insurance covers the rest.

The excess system protects both you and the rental company, but it also means you should know exactly what your liability is before driving off the lot.

What Is Not Covered by Basic Car Rental Insurance in Malta?

While CDW and Theft Waiver sound comprehensive, they don’t cover every situation. Common exclusions in Malta include:

• Tires and wheels
• Windscreens and windows
• Undercarriage and roof damage
• Mirrors and soft tops
• Interior damage
• Personal belongings inside the car

Another common exclusion is “loss of use,” which is the rental company’s lost income while the car is being repaired. Unless you purchase additional coverage, you may still be charged for this downtime.

These exclusions are why many travelers choose to add extra protection when booking, especially if they plan to explore Gozo or drive in rural parts of Malta where minor damages are more likely.

Optional Car Rental Insurance Upgrades in Malta

If you’re not comfortable with paying a large excess, you can choose optional upgrades that reduce or even remove your liability. The most common are:

• Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW): Reduces the excess to a much smaller amount, often around €100–€275 depending on the car type.
• Full Damage Waiver (FDW): Removes the excess completely, leaving you with zero liability. This usually costs more per day but offers maximum protection.
• Additional protection packages: Some rental companies in Malta also sell cover for tires, windscreens, mirrors, undercarriage, or even battery failure.

These upgrades typically cost between €10 and €25 per day, but for many travelers, they are worth it for the peace of mind they provide.

Credit Card and Travel Insurance Coverage

Some premium credit cards and travel insurance policies offer rental car coverage, but there are important caveats. These policies often exclude common damage like tires or glass, and some do not cover the excess amount at all. In addition, not all Malta car rental companies accept credit card insurance as a substitute for their own policies.

If you’re planning to rely on a card or travel insurance, check the fine print carefully and confirm with the rental company before you arrive. In many cases, these policies work best as supplementary protection rather than a complete replacement.

Important Conditions and Exclusions in Malta

Every policy comes with terms and conditions that affect whether a claim is valid. In Malta, you may not be covered if:

• You violate rental terms such as speeding or driving under the influence.
• Damage occurs on unapproved roads or off-road areas.
• An unauthorized driver is behind the wheel.

Reading the contract before signing is crucial. If anything is unclear, ask the rental desk to explain.

Eligibility and Requirements for Rental Insurance in Malta

To rent a car with insurance in Malta, you’ll typically need to:

• Be at least 21 years old (sometimes 23–25 depending on the rental company).
• Hold a valid driving license recognized in Malta.
• Provide a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.

Some companies may accept debit cards, but usually under strict conditions such as pre-payment or higher deposits.

Do You Really Need Extra Car Rental Insurance in Malta?

That depends on your comfort with risk. If you’re only staying for a few days and happy to accept an excess of €500–€1,000, then the included CDW and Theft Waiver may be enough.

But if you’re traveling for longer, driving in busier towns, or simply want peace of mind, upgrading to Super CDW, FDW, or an external excess policy can be a smart investment.

Tips for Choosing Car Rental Insurance in Malta

• Always ask about the excess amount before driving away.
• Take photos of the car during pickup to record any pre-existing damage.
• Compare the cost of upgrades with third-party excess insurance.
• Double-check whether your insurance covers driving in Gozo (most do).
• Make sure your credit card has enough available balance for the deposit.

Final Verdict – Car Rental Insurance Malta Made Simple

Car rental insurance in Malta is straightforward once you understand the basics. CDW and Theft Waiver are always included, but they come with an excess and exclusions that could leave you exposed. Optional upgrades like Super CDW or Full Damage Waiver reduce your risk, while third-party excess insurance or credit card coverage may offer alternatives.

The right choice depends on your budget and how much liability you’re willing to accept. For many travelers, paying a little extra for reduced excess is a small price for a stress-free holiday.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Malta and want help choosing the right coverage, feel free to contact us. We’ll help you find the best balance of protection and value so you can explore Malta and Gozo with confidence.

If you’ve ever rented a car in Malta, you’ll know that the paperwork can feel just as intimidating as the driving itself. One of the add-ons you’ll almost certainly be offered is Super Collision Damage Waiver (Super CDW). For many visitors, it’s not clear whether this is a clever upsell or a smart investment.

The truth is: Super CDW in Malta can make a big difference to your peace of mind. It reduces the financial risk you face if your rental car is damaged or stolen.

While standard CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) is usually included in Malta rentals, the excess you’d have to pay if something goes wrong can range anywhere from €750 to €1,800 or more depending on the vehicle. Super CDW dramatically lowers this amount, often bringing it down to €100–€275.

What Is Super CDW in Malta Car Rentals?

Super CDW is an optional insurance upgrade that lowers the excess liability you’d pay in case of an accident, theft, or damage. It’s not a replacement for CDW — think of it as an add-on that makes the included coverage stronger.

Here’s how it fits in:

• CDW (included in most rentals) limits your liability but leaves you with a high excess.
• Super CDW reduces that excess to a much smaller amount.
• Full Damage Waiver (FDW), which we’ll explain below, goes one step further by eliminating the excess entirely.

Super CDW applies per claim, so whether it’s a fender bender in Valletta or a parking scrape near Victoria in Gozo, the most you’ll pay is the reduced excess.

However, keep in mind that some things are still excluded: tires, wheels, windscreens, the undercarriage, and soft tops.

How Super CDW Works in Malta

Let’s break it down with an example. Say you rent a compact economy car in Malta with a standard CDW excess of €1,200. Without Super CDW, if the car suffers €900 in damage, you pay the full €900. If the damage is €2,500, you still pay €1,200, and the insurer covers the rest.

With Super CDW, that same €1,200 excess might drop to €150. So in the €900 damage scenario, you’d only pay €150 instead of €900. For a €2,500 claim, you’d still only pay €150.

This reduction is why many travelers find Super CDW worthwhile, especially if they’re driving in busy urban areas like Sliema or navigating Gozo’s narrower village roads.

Super CDW vs. Full Damage Waiver (FDW)

When you’re standing at the rental counter, you’ll likely be offered more than one upgrade. Here’s the difference:

• Super CDW (SCDW): Reduces your liability to a small excess, usually €100–€275. Affordable daily fee (often €12–€20).
• Full Damage Waiver (FDW): Eliminates the excess completely, leaving you with zero liability. Costs more per day but offers maximum coverage.

Both give you stronger protection than CDW alone, but the choice comes down to risk vs. budget.

• If you want peace of mind at a reasonable price, Super CDW is usually enough.
• If you’d rather not think about liability at all, FDW is the safest bet.

Typical Costs of Super CDW in Malta

The price of Super CDW varies depending on the car type, rental company, and length of your booking. On average, expect to pay around €12 per day for smaller cars, and up to €20–€25 per day for SUVs, mini-Vans or premium vehicles.

Other factors that affect cost include:

• Driver’s age: Younger drivers may pay a higher rate.
• Rental duration: Longer rentals sometimes bring a lower per-day fee.
• Season: Summer and holiday periods can mean higher insurance add-on prices.

Although the daily charge might not seem like much, over a two-week holiday it can add up. That’s why it’s important to weigh the cost against the potential financial risk of driving without it.

Tip: Think your rental price is final? Check our Hidden Fee Calculator and see what you might be missing.

Is Super CDW Worth It? Pros and Cons

Pros

• Peace of mind – knowing your liability is capped at a small amount.
• Affordable compared to FDW – cheaper daily rate while still lowering risk.
• Quick process if damage occurs – less hassle at the rental desk.

Cons

• Still leaves some liability – you’ll pay €100–€275 if there’s a claim.
• Exclusions remain – tires, windscreens, roof, and undercarriage are usually not covered.
• Not always best value on long rentals – the daily fee adds up.

For many travelers, Super CDW strikes the right balance between cost and coverage. It’s especially helpful if you’re driving in busy towns like Valletta or in Gozo’s narrow village streets where minor scrapes are more likely.

Alternatives to Super CDW in Malta

Super CDW isn’t the only way to protect yourself. You also have alternatives:

• Full Damage Waiver (FDW): Costs more per day but reduces liability to zero.
• Third-party excess insurance: Independent insurers offer policies that reimburse you if you pay an excess. Often cheaper overall but requires filing a claim later.
• Credit card or travel insurance: Some cards or travel policies include car hire protection, though coverage can be limited and exclusions common.

Comparing these options before you arrive can save you money and help you avoid high-pressure sales at the rental desk.

Practical Tips for Renters Considering Super CDW in Malta

• Always check the standard excess on your rental before deciding.
• Confirm the exact exclusions so you’re not surprised later.
• Compare the daily cost of SCDW vs FDW with third-party insurance.
• Remember that some companies will still block a deposit on your card, even with Super CDW.
• Take photos of the car before driving away to protect yourself from disputes.

Final Verdict – Should You Choose Super CDW in Malta?

Super CDW is one of the most common upgrades offered by Malta car rental companies, and for good reason: it lowers your liability from potentially thousands of euros down to just a couple hundred at most. For many travelers, that peace of mind is worth the modest daily fee.

If you want to minimize costs, you could rely on standard CDW plus a third-party excess policy. But if you’d prefer a stress-free trip without worrying about big bills, Super CDW is a solid middle ground between basic CDW and full FDW.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Malta and aren’t sure whether Super CDW is right for you, feel free to contact us. We’ll help you compare your options and find the coverage that best fits your trip.