Renting a car in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to explore the country. However, before hitting the road, it’s important to understand how the car rental process works in Costa Rica. To help make your trip as smooth as possible, here are the top 10 most frequently asked questions about renting a car in Costa Rica:1.
1. Do I Need Insurance When Renting a Car in Costa Rica?
Yes, car rental insurance is mandatory in Costa Rica. The country requires renters to purchase basic Third-Party Liability (TPL) insurance, which covers damage to third parties. This is added to the cost of your rental. Additional insurance, like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI), is optional but recommended to protect yourself from hefty repair or replacement costs in case of an accident.
2. Do I Need an International Driver’s License to Rent a Car in Costa Rica?
No, you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) if you have a valid driver’s license from your home country. Tourists can use their standard license for up to 90 days. However, if your license is not in English or Spanish, it’s a good idea to carry an IDP for easier communication with local authorities, but it's not obligatory.
3. What’s the Best Type of Car to Rent in Costa Rica?
The type of car you should rent depends on where you plan to travel. For driving in flat terrain or well-maintained paved roads (like in the capital, Liberia, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Uvita), a 4x2 will work fine. While you may be tempted to opt for a compact or sedan, we don't recommend these, as Costa Rica's roads can be unpredictable. Even in well-traveled areas, you're likely to encounter potholes, uneven surfaces, and steeper hills that can be difficult to navigate with a low-clearance vehicle. That’s why we highly recommend renting a vehicle with sufficient ground clearance, like a SUV. However, if you’re venturing into rural areas, mountainous regions (like Monteverde), or places with or surrounded by unpaved roads (like Nosara, Samara), a 4x4 SUV is strongly recommended. The rainy season (May to November) can also make some roads more challenging due to floods and river crossings, making a 4x4 even more important.
4. What is the Minimum Age to Rent a Car in Costa Rica?
The minimum age to rent a car in Costa Rica is typically 21, but most rental companies charge an additional fee for drivers under 25 years old. Some rental agencies also have a maximum age limit, so it’s a good idea to check with the company in advance if you fall into an older age bracket.
5. Are There Hidden Fees When Renting a Car in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is known for having some rental fees that may not be immediately clear during the booking process. Be on the lookout for:
- Mandatory insurance fees (not usually included in the quoted price)
- Young driver fees (for drivers under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- GPS or Wi-Fi device rentals
- Roadside assistance fees Always ask for a complete breakdown of costs when reserving your vehicle to avoid unexpected charges at the counter.
6. Can I Use a Debit Card to Rent a Car in Costa Rica?
Most big rental companies in Costa Rica prefer credit cards for the security deposit, but some will accept debit cards. Smaller rental car companies like us will ask for a cash deposit. If using a debit card, be prepared for a higher deposit amount, which will be held until you return the vehicle. Make sure your card has enough funds available to cover this hold, which can be up to $2,000-$3,000 depending on the insurance coverage chosen.
7. Do I Have to Return the Car with a Full Tank of Gas?
Yes, the standard fuel policy in Costa Rica is “full to full”, meaning you receive the car with a full tank and must return it the same way. If the car is returned with less fuel, the rental company will charge you a refueling fee, which is often more expensive than filling the tank at a local gas station.
8. Is it Safe to Drive in Costa Rica?
For the most part, driving in Costa Rica is safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- 1. Road conditions can vary, especially in rural areas. Some roads may be unpaved, narrow, or poorly marked, and potholes are common.
During the rainy season, certain roads may flood or become slippery, so exercise caution, especially on mountain roads.
Wildlife may cross the roads in rural areas, so drive attentively, especially near national parks and reserves.
Use a GPS app like Waze (widely used in Costa Rica) to navigate, as street names and signage can sometimes be confusing or inconsistent.
9. Can I Cross the Border with My Rental Car?
In general, rental cars from Costa Rica cannot be taken across the border into Nicaragua or Panama. If you’re planning to visit neighboring countries, you’ll need to return your rental car before crossing or park it in a dedicated parking lot at the border and rent another vehicle in your destination country.
10. What Should I Do if I Get Into an Accident or the Car Breaks Down?
If you’re involved in an accident in Costa Rica, the first step is to call 911 and wait for the Transit Police (Tránsito) to arrive. It’s important to not move the vehicle until authorities have inspected the scene. Contact your rental company immediately after to report the incident and follow their instructions. Most companies offer roadside assistance, so make sure you have their emergency contact number handy in case of a breakdown.
Renting a car in Costa Rica gives you the freedom to explore its natural beauty at your own pace. However, understanding the country’s rental policies and driving conditions is key to having a hassle-free experience. Whether it’s mandatory insurance, the type of car to rent, or tips on avoiding hidden fees, being informed will help you enjoy your trip with confidence.
Ready to rent a car for your Costa Rican adventure? Check out our available vehicles and book today to get started!