
Yes, Progressive typically extends your U.S. auto insurance policy to cover rental cars in Canada for liability purposes. This is because Canada's insurance requirements are similar to those in the U.S. However, your collision and comprehensive coverage may not automatically apply, and the specific terms depend entirely on your individual policy.
The most critical step is to call Progressive before your trip. Ask them to verify your coverage details and provide you with a "proof of insurance" document, often called a "binder," that includes the rental car. This document is your best defense against any issues at the rental counter.
Many people rely on the collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW) offered by the rental company. This isn't insurance; it's an agreement where the rental company waives their right to charge you for damage to the car. While convenient, it can be expensive. Your credit card might offer primary or secondary rental car coverage if you use it to pay for the entire rental, which can be a cost-effective alternative to the rental company's CDW.
The table below outlines the typical coverage components and how they might apply to a rental car in Canada.
| Coverage Type | Typically Applies in Canada? | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | Yes, usually extends automatically. | Meets Canada's minimum requirements. Confirm your policy limits are sufficient. |
| Collision (Damage to Rental Car) | Maybe, but often with limitations. | Your policy's deductible will apply. May not cover "loss of use" fees charged by the rental company. |
| Comprehensive (Theft, Vandalism) | Maybe, but often with limitations. | Same deductible applies. Verify if it's included. |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP)/MedPay | Usually, but check for cross-border clauses. | Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers. |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist | Varies by policy; must confirm. | Protection if you're hit by a driver with insufficient insurance. |
Ultimately, the safest approach is a layered one. Confirm your Progressive liability coverage, understand your policy's physical damage coverage and its gaps, and then decide if you need to purchase the rental company's CDW or rely on your credit card's benefit.

From my experience, the answer is "usually, but don't assume." My policy covered me when I rented a car in Toronto, but I made a quick call to Progressive first. They emailed me a confirmation letter, which made the rental process smooth. The big catch is the deductible. If something happens, you're still on the hook for that amount, and the rental company might charge you for the days the car is in the shop. I always check my credit card's rental insurance benefits—it often provides better primary coverage.

It's not a simple yes or no. Liability coverage generally follows the car, so you're likely covered for that in Canada. The real question is damage to the rental car itself. Your Progressive policy might extend collision coverage, but you need to read the fine print. Policies often exclude certain types of vehicles or countries, and Canada, while similar, could be a specific exclusion in some cases. The only way to know for sure is to review your policy documents or, even better, speak directly with a Progressive agent.


