Costa Rica Car Rental
Book affordable Costa Rica car rental with convenient pickup from Juan Santamaría International Airport, flexible booking, transparent pricing, and reliable rental cars for exploring 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.
Rent a Car in Costa Rica: Essential Tips
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
Visitors must present a valid passport, a driver's licence from their home country, and a credit card in the primary driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not written in the Latin alphabet.
Documents for Residents
Costa Rican residents must provide a valid Costa Rican driver's licence, a national ID or residency card, and a credit card in the renter's name. Some rental providers may also request proof of address.
Credit Card Requirement
A credit card is required for the security deposit and rental payment. Deposit amounts vary depending on the vehicle category and insurance selected. Most rental companies do not accept debit cards for the security deposit.
Driving Regulations
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally: Urban areas: 40 km/h (25 mph) Secondary roads: 60 km/h (37 mph) Highways: Up to 100 km/h (62 mph) Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and traffic laws are strictly enforced.
Child Seat Regulations
Children under 12 years old or shorter than 145 cm (4 ft 9 in) must use an appropriate child restraint or booster seat. Child seats can usually be reserved when booking your rental car.
Traffic Rules
Costa Rica has a strict drink-driving policy, and using a mobile phone while driving is only permitted with a hands-free device. Always carry your driving licence, passport copy, and rental documents while on the road.
Toll Roads and Fuel Costs
Several highways, particularly around San José, include toll booths. Carry small amounts of Costa Rican colones or use accepted payment methods where available. Fuel prices are government-regulated, and petrol stations are widely available throughout the country.
Navigation and Parking
Navigation apps such as Google Maps and Waze work well across Costa Rica, although downloading offline maps is recommended for remote areas. Use official parking lots whenever possible, particularly in busy tourist destinations, and avoid leaving valuables inside your vehicle.
Roads and Insurance:
Road conditions vary throughout Costa Rica. Major highways are generally well maintained, while rural roads may be narrow, steep, or unpaved, especially during the rainy season. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for mountain regions and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Basic insurance is mandatory, and additional coverage is recommended for extra protection during your trip.
Car Rentals at Costa Rica International Airports
Best Time to Rent a Car in Costa Rica
Low Season Car Rentals in Costa Rica
The low season in Costa Rica generally runs from May to November, also known as the green season. During this period, travellers can often find more affordable car rental rates, better availability, and competitive prices on accommodation. Booking during the low season is a good option for visitors looking for flexibility and value while exploring Costa Rica.
Peak Season Car Rentals in Costa Rica
The peak travel season in Costa Rica typically takes place from December to April, when many international travellers visit for warmer weather and outdoor adventures. Demand for rental cars increases during this period, especially for popular vehicle categories such as SUVs and 4x4 vehicles. Booking your rental car early can help secure better availability and preferred vehicle options.
Costa Rica Car Rental Cost Comparison
Car rental prices in Costa Rica vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and demand. May is generally considered one of the more affordable months for renting a car, while prices often increase around December due to higher visitor demand. Travellers planning a trip during peak periods should reserve their vehicle in advance to get better options and rates.
