What you need to know about the requirements for renting a car in Costa Rica

Renting a car can be one of the best ways to explore all the corners of Costa Rica, from its beautiful beaches to the majestic volcanoes. However, it is essential to know the rental requirements and prepare adequately before your trip.

Documentation required to rent a car

Valid driver’s license

To rent a car in Costa Rica, one of the main requirements to rent a car in Costa Rica is to have a valid driver’s license. Your license must be valid for the entire rental period of the vehicle. This applies to both national and international licenses.

An international driving permit is not required if you have a license issued in a country that has diplomatic relations with Costa Rica. Make sure to always carry it with you while driving.

Credit card

Most agencies require a credit card to cover the security deposit. This amount usually varies depending on the type of car you decide to rent. It is recommended to check the specific conditions of each agency in advance.

Additionally, the credit card can also be used to charge any extra expenses or damages that may occur during the rental of the car.

Passport

Bring your passport with you when picking up the car. Many rental providers will ask you to present this document along with your valid driver’s license to verify your identity.

Although you will experience this mainly in Costa Rica, your passport will help confirm your status as a tourist and will be essential in various processes.

Minimum age requirement

In general, the minimum age to rent a car in Costa Rica is 21 years. Some companies may have additional restrictions for drivers under 25 years. It is advisable to check these policies before making your reservation.

Young drivers may face extra fees known as “young driver surcharge.” This fee varies among companies and is added to the total rental cost.

Mandatory rental insurance

Rental insurance is an important requirement when renting a car in Costa Rica. This typically includes basic coverage for accidents and damage to third parties. It is vital to check what types of insurance are included in your rental agreement and consider adding additional coverage as needed.

In some cases, your own automotive insurance policy or credit cards may offer some coverage for rental cars. Always consult this in advance and carry relevant documents that demonstrate this coverage.

Unlimited mileage

A significant advantage of renting a car in Costa Rica is that many times they offer unlimited mileage. This means you can travel long distances without worrying about extra charges based on the number of kilometers driven.

Not all offers include this option, so review your rental agreement carefully and verify that you really have unlimited mileage to enjoy your trip without worries.

Specific rental conditions

Fuel policy

The rental conditions may vary according to the rental company. Generally, they will expect you to return the car with the same level of fuel with which you received it. Some rental agencies offer the option to prepay for the gas tank, leaving the car empty at the end of the rental.

Understanding and respecting the fuel policy will avoid unnecessary expenses and unexpected price adjustments when returning the vehicle.

Geographical restrictions

In Costa Rica, some rural areas or less accessible places may have restrictions for rental vehicles. Consult with your rental company to know these limitations and plan your routes accordingly.

It is also advisable to thoroughly understand local rules and traffic peculiarities, such as fines and parking regulations. This will ensure safe and lawful driving.

Advance reservation and payment

Booking in advance

Making an advance reservation not only guarantees that you will get the desired car but can also be more economical. The demand for rental cars can be high, especially during the tourist season.

Making a reservation in advance allows you to compare prices and services among different agencies, ensuring that you find the best available offer.

Initial payments and deposits

Many rental contracts require an initial payment and a security deposit. The amount of these payments varies according to the agency and the type of car you choose. It is essential to read carefully the cancellation and refund policies.

Check when you will be able to recover your deposit after returning the car and under what conditions it might be retained in full or partially.

Useful tips for your trip

Vehicle inspection

Before leaving the parking lot, thoroughly inspect the car you are renting. Check for any previous damage and ensure that it is documented in the rental agreement to avoid misunderstandings when concluding the agreement.

Take photos or videos of any scratches, dents, or visible defects. This will serve as evidence in case of any future disputes with the rental company.

Compliance with regulations

Traffic laws in Costa Rica may differ from those in your home country. Familiarize yourself with local traffic signs, speed limits, and other relevant regulations to ensure safe and legal driving.

Make sure to always carry all the necessary documentation in the car, including your valid driver’s license, rental insurance, and car papers. These precautions are essential to avoid inconveniences during traffic checks.

Availability of roadside assistance

It is helpful to know that many car rental services in Costa Rica offer roadside assistance in case of emergencies or mechanical breakdowns. Check this with your rental agent and keep the contact number for use if necessary.

This assistance can be crucial in case of unexpected incidents, providing quick support and solutions to continue your journey.

Returning the rented car

Return schedule

The return schedule of the rented car must be agreed upon in advance. Some rental companies allow off-hours returns by leaving keys in secure lockers.

Ensure that you comply with the agreed times to avoid additional charges. Returning the car within the appropriate time frame is fundamental for optimizing costs.

Final inspection

Conduct a final inspection of the car with a representative of the rental company. Verifying the condition of the vehicle together ensures transparency when recording possible new damages or observing differences after the rental period.

Recover your security deposit once the car has been confirmed to be in good condition, free of fines, and with the agreed fuel level.

Phone number: +506 2255 8626