ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero)
Optional ZLC (extra fee): JPY 0 out-of-pocket for covered vehicle damage and NOC. Terms and exclusions apply.
0 JPY
With ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero), your liability for vehicle damage and NOC is 0 JPY in the event of an accident, subject to the rental terms and exclusions.
Basic insurance included
Basic insurance is included in the rental price.
Built from real customer demand
We introduced ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero) after repeated requests from international guests who wanted simpler, more reassuring protection.
Real Case
In an actual accident, the final charge was JPY 0
This is a real example of an accident involving one of our rental cars. Because the renter had ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero), the final charge was JPY 0.
Regional Guide
Similar terms by region
If you are more familiar with rental car terms outside Japan, this guide helps explain which overseas protection types are closest to ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero).
US / Canada
Similar to LDW / DW with no loss-of-use charge.
UK / Europe
Similar to Zero Excess / Super CDW / SuperCover.
Australia / New Zealand
Similar to Zero Excess / AER / Super Damage Waiver.
Asia-Pacific
Similar to Zero Excess / SCDW / Premium Protection.
These terms are provided for reference only. Coverage and exclusions vary by country and rental company. Please review the full protection details during booking.
Why it matters
A road trip should not come with a huge financial unknown
The biggest concern many guests mention is not the rental price itself. It is the risk of a large post-accident bill. ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero) is designed to make that risk far easier to understand before you book.
- Easy to understand at checkout, without needing to decode multiple layers of liability.
- Especially useful for first-time drivers in Japan and long-distance travelers.
- Built as a direct response to repeated traveler requests, then released from January 2026.
Before you book
The main takeaway
If you want to keep accident-time self-liability as low and predictable as possible, ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero) is the clearest option we offer. You can add it by paying an additional protection fee at checkout.
Final terms, exclusions, and actual plan availability depend on vehicle, booking details, and checkout selection.
NOC Waiver (Zero Liability Cover) - Exclusions
The NOC Waiver (including "Zero Liability Cover") does not apply in any of the following cases. In such cases, we may charge the NOC stated above and any related costs (including towing, arrangements, and cleaning fees):
Any violation of Japanese law or gross negligence
- (Examples) DUI/alcohol or drugs, unlicensed driving, reckless/dangerous driving (including excessive speeding or racing), or similar conduct
Breach of rental agreement
- Driving by anyone other than the renter or registered additional drivers
- Subleasing, unauthorized transfer of use, false statements
Failure to follow required procedures
- No police report / no police reference number
- Late or no report to us, or failure to follow our instructions
- Unauthorized settlement with third parties, leaving the scene, hit-and-run
Theft / serious key negligence
- Theft or loss caused by serious negligence in handling the keys or vehicle documents (e.g., leaving the keys in the vehicle or leaving it unlocked).
Excluded from insurance/coverage
- Intentional damage, fraud, or dishonest acts
- Use contrary to warnings/instructions or entering prohibited areas
FAQ
ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero): frequently asked questions
What is ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero)?
ZLC is an optional protection plan that you can add for an extra fee at checkout. For covered accidents, your out-of-pocket amount for vehicle damage and NOC is JPY 0, subject to the rental terms and exclusions.
Is insurance included if I do not add ZLC?
Yes. Basic insurance is included in the rental price. ZLC is an optional upgrade that reduces your out-of-pocket amount for covered vehicle damage and NOC to JPY 0.
What is NOC?
NOC (Non-Operation Charge) is a charge used by Japanese rental companies to cover the period when a damaged car cannot be rented out while it is being repaired.
When does ZLC not apply?
ZLC does not apply in cases such as violations of Japanese law or gross negligence (for example, drunk driving), driving by anyone who is not a registered driver, not reporting the accident to the police or to us, theft caused by leaving the keys in the car, or intentional damage. In these cases, NOC and related costs such as towing may be charged.
Do I need to contact you in advance to add another driver?
No. Additional drivers are free and need no advance contact. Each additional driver presents their driver's license at pickup and is registered then. Anyone who is not registered must not drive, and ZLC does not apply if they do.
How do I add ZLC to my booking?
Select ZLC (Damage & NOC Zero) when you choose protection during booking. Availability depends on the vehicle and booking details, and the booking summary shows the final terms.
Is ZLC the same as Zero Excess or Super CDW?
ZLC is similar to Zero Excess, Super CDW, or LDW without a loss-of-use charge, but coverage and exclusions differ by country and rental company. Always check the ZLC terms shown during booking.