Japan car rental insurance explained: CDW and the non-operation charge (NOC)
Renting a car in Japan? Insurance is usually included, but there are two extra terms you need to know before you book: CDW and NOC.
Three things that decide what you pay after an accident
Insurance (included)
Third-party injury and property cover is normally included in the rental price. If there is an accident, you usually pay an excess for property damage and damage to the car.
CDW (collision damage waiver)
An extra that removes the excess. Some companies make it optional; others make it required.
NOC (non-operation charge)
A fixed fee for the time the car cannot be rented out while it is repaired or cleaned. CDW does not cover it.
What is the non-operation charge?
Japanese rental companies charge an NOC when a car is damaged, stolen, or needs repair or cleaning, for example after an accident, a scratch, or smoke in a non-smoking car. It is a flat amount that depends on whether the car can still be driven.
Amounts at the time of writing. Always check the rental terms of the company you book with.
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Tell us your dates and where you are staying. Your quote includes delivery.
How to avoid paying the NOC
- Check the car with staff when you receive it, and take photos of any marks.
- Do not smoke in the car. Smoke smell can lead to cleaning charges and an NOC.
- Report every accident to the police, however small. Without a police report, insurance usually does not apply.
- Drive with winter tyres on snowy roads, and keep your distance on ice.
- Return the car on time, with a full tank, and tell the company early if your plans change.
Insurance when you rent with us
Insurance is included in every rental. CDW is required at ¥20,000 per month, so you pay no excess for property damage or damage to the car. The NOC applies separately. See Insurance and protection for full details, and our optional PTH cover for punctures and stone chips on the rates page.
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Questions about CDW and NOC
Q. What is the NOC on a Japanese rental car?
The non-operation charge (NOC) is a fixed fee you pay if the car is damaged, stolen or needs cleaning, to cover the time it cannot be rented out.
Q. Does CDW cover the NOC?
No. CDW removes your excess for property damage and damage to the car, but the NOC is charged separately.
Q. How much is the NOC in Japan?
At major companies such as Toyota Rent a Car, it is typically ¥20,000 if the car can be driven back and ¥50,000 if it cannot. Amounts vary by company, so check before you book.
Q. How do I avoid paying the NOC?
Drive carefully, check the car with staff at handover, never smoke in the car, and report any accident to the police. Some companies also sell an option that waives the NOC.
Questions before you book?
Send us a message and we will explain the cover before you book.
You are welcome to write to us in English through our web form or LINE. We reply in Japanese, so please use a translation tool to read our reply.