Originally Posted by garykung

It is totally acceptable, as you have a fundamental misunderstanding.

According to CA DMV:

"Financial responsibility (commonly known as insurance) is required on all vehicles operated or parked on California roadways." Interestingly, the CA DMV does not actually require insurance, but instead accept the following:

"- Motor vehicle liability insurance policy.
- Cash deposit of $35,000 with DMV.
- DMV-issued self-insurance certificate.
- Surety bond for $35,000 from a company licensed to do business in California."

Because of this common misunderstanding, many simply ask for insurance. What they actually mean is proof of financial responsibility.

There is actually no law mandating how you need to pay for the damages if you are found to be responsible. Cash, insurance, credit card, etc. No one really cares as soon as it has been paid.

Bottom line, when the Enterprise agent really means financial responsibility, you are thinking liability coverage. Hence, the fundamental misunderstanding.