Car Rental in Costa Rica

Rental prices vary based on the type of vehicle and rental duration. On average, you can expect to pay around $30 to $60 per day.

Compact SUVs and 4x4 vehicles are among the best car rental in Costa Rica. They offer comfort, especially for navigating Costa Rica's diverse terrain.

Prices may vary, but it is crucial to select a reliable company that offers high-quality cars and excellent service. It is worth considering paying a little extra for these benefits.

Finalrentals in Costa Rica is a trusted choice. Our well-maintained fleet, transparent pricing, and dedicated customer support make us a top option for exploring Costa Rica.

Our online platform allows you to browse and book rental cars conveniently. You can also choose to pick up your rental from major airports or city locations.

Major cities like San Jose and Liberia are popular pick-up locations. However, renting from the airport gives you easy access to start your adventure right away.

On average, a week-long car rental in Costa Rica can cost between $200 and $400. It depends on the vehicle type and rental company.

Monthly rates can vary widely, starting from around $600 to $1,200. We recommend inquiring with the car rental companies in Costa Rica for long-term rates.

Costa Rican roads can range from well-paved highways to bumpy rural paths. It's advisable to opt for a 4x4 vehicle for better comfort and navigation.

In Costa Rica, the minimum age requirement for renting a car is typically 21. However, certain companies may have higher age restrictions, such as 23 or 25.

Gasoline prices in Costa Rica are relatively high compared to neighbouring countries. It's advisable to budget for fuel expenses accordingly.

Speed limits can be different. Speed limits vary depending on the location. The authorities set the speed limit for highways at 80 km/h (50 mph). Urban areas reduce the speed limit to 40 km/h (25 mph). Always adhere to local speed limits for safety.

We suggest getting an international driver's license, especially if your native license isn't in English or Spanish.

Some rental companies may charge extra fees for services like GPS, additional drivers, or insurance coverage. Reviewing the terms and conditions to understand all potential costs is essential.

Most car rental companies in Costa Rica do not allow cross-border travel with their vehicles. It is due to potential border issues and legal complexities. Always confirm with the rental company about any travel restrictions.

Yes, having insurance coverage is mandatory when renting a car in Costa Rica. The rental price often includes basic insurance, such as liability coverage. However, consider additional coverage for comprehensive protection.

Yes, child car seats are mandatory for children under 12 years old or under 1.45 meters in height. Most rental companies offer child seat rentals, but we recommend booking them in advance.

The minimum age to rent a car in Costa Rica is generally 21. Some companies may require renters to be at least 23 or 25 years old. Check with the rental company for their specific age requirements.

Yes, there are toll roads in Costa Rica. These tolls help maintain the road infrastructure. Be prepared to pay tolls in cash or with a card when travelling on designated roads.

In case of an accident or breakdown, contact the rental company immediately using the provided contact information. They will guide you through the necessary steps, which may include involving local authorities and arranging for a replacement vehicle.

We just book using a very simple approach. Visit our website, choose the location and preferred dates. You can then pick among our large selection of vehicles. Follow the simple guidelines then to finish your reservation.

Renting a car in Costa Rica is quite affordable, with options to fit various budgets. Economy cars start at $5 per day. Standard cars are available for around $12 per day. An SUV costs $15 per day. A minivan for $19 per day.

In Costa Rica, speed limits vary based on the type of road. Major highways have a speed limit of 100 km/h (62 mph), ideal for long-distance travel, such as driving from San José to the Pacific coast. Secondary roads are limited to 60 km/h (37 mph), perfect for navigating local areas like small towns or rural regions. Near schools and hospitals, the speed limit drops to 25 km/h (15 mph) to ensure safety for children and patients. For example, when driving past a school in San José, you must slow down to 25 km/h to protect students crossing the street.

Yes, insurance is mandatory to rent a car in Costa Rica. Specifically, you need a loss damage waiver (LDW), which covers theft protection and reduces your financial responsibility if an accident occurs. In case your rental car gets damaged or stolen, the LDW minimizes what you’ll have to pay out of pocket. You’ll also need a credit card to make the deposit and payment when renting a car.

In Costa Rica, you must be at least 18 years old to rent a car and hold your driver's license for at least one year. Some vehicle categories may require a higher minimum age. For example, luxury cars often have a higher age requirement. Additionally, if you’re under 21, a young driver surcharge will apply. So, if you're 19 and renting a standard car, you'll pay an extra fee for being a young driver. However, at 25, you can rent any car category without facing additional charges.

You need a valid driver's license from your home country to rent a car in Costa Rica. An international driver's license is required only if your license uses a non-Roman alphabet, like Mandarin, Arabic, or Hebrew. For example, your regular license is sufficient if you're from the U.S. or Canada. Additionally, you’ll need your passport as identification and a credit card for the rental deposit and payment. For instance, when renting a car in San José, you can use your U.S. driver’s license, show your passport, and provide a credit card to complete the rental process.

As of July 2024, the price of one liter (1/4 gallon) of gas in San Jose, Costa Rica, is $1.35 (₡ 708). All petrol stations accept credit card payments and provide full service, so refueling your rental car is effortless.

To secure a spot in your Costa Rica rental car, it's best to make your reservation in advance, particularly during peak travel periods. A 15% deposit is required to reserve a rental when made online with Finalrentals. Upon vehicle pickup, paying the remaining balance at the rental car counter is the most convenient and accommodating option. Make your rental car reservation with Finalrentals in advance for a stress-free experience in Costa Rica. When you make your reservation, you won't have to fret over hidden costs or penalties for changing your mind.