Car Rental in Costa Rica
Get the Best Car Rental Deals in Costa Rica
Free Cancellation
Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Final Rentals does not believe in charging cancellation fees.
No Hidden Charges
Pay full rental amount at the counter. No need to pay online. We work on clear pricing policy, what you see is what you pay.
Fair Fuel Policy
You can return the car at the same fuel level as it was handed over to you and there will be no charges at all.
Things to Know Before Renting a Car in Costa Rica
Flexible Travel
Renting a car in Costa Rica lets travellers explore the country's secluded waterfalls, remote beaches, and charming small towns seamlessly, without being limited by public transportation options and schedules.
Documents for Tourists
To rent a car in Costa Rica, tourists must carry a valid passport, a driver’s license from their home country, and a visa if required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if the license is not written in the Roman alphabet.
Documents for Residents
To rent a car in Costa Rica, residents must provide a valid driver's license held for a minimum of two years. A Costa Rican identification card or cedula is also required for additional verification.
Credit Card Requirement
A credit card in the renter’s name is necessary for both the deposit and payment, helping to guarantee a smooth and hassle-free experience. Debit cards or cash deposits are generally not accepted.
Driving Regulations
Costa Ricans drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas and 90-120 km/h on major highways. Seatbelts are mandatory for all, mobile use is only allowed hands-free, and driving under the influence of alcohol is prohibited.
Child Seat Regulations
Costa Rica has strict child safety seat laws. Car seats are required for babies and toddlers, while booster seats are mandatory for children aged 4 to 12 years old or around 145 cm and 36 kg. Kids are generally not allowed to sit in front.
Traffic Rules
In Costa Rica, if an intersection has no stop signs, yield signs, or traffic lights, the vehicle approaching from your right has the right of way. Right turn on red is not allowed, and you must stop to give way to traffic on the main road.
Toll Roads and Fuel Costs
Toll roads are primarily located near San José and on the way to the Pacific coast, and payment is done in cash. Gas stations are widely available throughout Costa Rica. Prices can fluctuate, but it is regulated by the Costa Rican government.
Navigation and Parking
GPS navigation apps are extremely useful in Costa Rica as they provide real-time updates on road conditions and traffic. Paid parking lots are common. You might also find parking meters or use the "Epark" app to pay. Beware of no-parking zones.
Roads and Insurance:
Road conditions in Costa Rica are diverse. Major highways between larger cities are paved and in good to fair condition. However, many secondary roads are unpaved, gravel, rocky, narrow, or winding. A car insurance is required for all vehicles.
Car Rentals at Costa Rica International Airports
Best Time to Rent a Car in Costa Rica
Low Season Rentals
The low season for tourism in Costa Rica is generally from May to November, coinciding with the green or rainy season. Take advantage of the cheaper car rentals, flights, and accommodations by booking during this period.
Peak Season Rentals
The peak season for tourism in Costa Rica generally runs from December to April. Car rental rates are typically higher, especially for in-demand vehicles like SUVs or 4x4 models. Book in advance to secure your rental car.
Rental Cost Comparisons
May is the cheapest month to rent a car in Costa Rica, while December is the most expensive. Demand for rental cars reaches its peak due to visitors escaping winter, leading to increased prices and limited availability.
