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Car Rental in Costa Rica

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Tips for Renting a Car in Costa Rica

Bring your valid driver’s license from your home country. You'll need an international driver's license if it’s in a non-Roman alphabet (like Mandarin or Arabic). Also, have your passport and a credit card for the rental deposit and payment.

The minimum age to rent a car is 18, and you must have held your license for at least one year. Some vehicle categories have higher age requirements, and a young driver surcharge applies to those under 21.

The loss damage waiver (LDW) is mandatory in Costa Rica. It covers theft protection and reduces financial liability in case of damage or an accident.

Major roads have a limit of 100 km/h (62 mph), secondary roads are 60 km/h (37 mph), and near schools or hospitals, it’s 25 km/h (15 mph).

While major highways are generally good, rural roads can be rough. If you plan to explore off the beaten path, consider renting a 4x4.

Drive on the right side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02%.

Be prepared to pay tolls on some highways. Keep some local currency handy for these payments.

Costa Rican law requires children under 12 or shorter than 1.45 meters (4 feet 9 inches) to use a child seat. If you're traveling with kids, make sure to request a toddler or booster seat.

In cities, look for official parking lots or spaces to avoid fines. Do not leave valuables in the car to prevent theft.

Gas stations are plentiful, but they can be sparse in remote areas. Always keep your tank topped up, especially when heading into rural regions.

Finalrentals simplifies the process of renting a vehicle in Costa Rica. You can select the ideal vehicle for your journey from various vehicles, including compact cars and SUVs. Experience a stress-free travel experience with competitive rates, comprehensive insurance options, and no young driver fees.

hire Free Cancellation

Change of plans? Rent with confidence, cancel anytime. No fee. Finalrentals does not believe in charging any cancellation fee.

hire 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.

hire 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.

Car Hire at Costa Rica International Airports

Arriving in Costa Rica and need a car? Finalrentals has you covered at all major international airports! Whether you land at San Jose Airport, Liberia International Airport, or Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP), renting a car is easy and hassle-free.

Imagine stepping off the plane at San Jose Airport and picking up your rental car in minutes. There are no long waits; just grab your keys and start exploring the vibrant capital city or head out to the beautiful beaches.

If you’re flying into Liberia International Airport, Finalrentals ensures you can quickly get your vehicle and drive straight to the stunning Pacific coast. Enjoy the scenic routes and discover Costa Rica's hidden gems.

Landing at Quepos La Managua Airport? No problem! With Finalrentals, you can swiftly pick up your car and dive into the adventure. Visit the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park or explore the charming town of Quepos.

With Finalrentals, your journey in Costa Rica starts smoothly and stress-free right from the airport! Enjoy the freedom to explore this beautiful country at your own leisure.

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  •   San Jose Airport
  •   Liberia International Airport
  •   Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP)

Car Rental in Costa Rica FAQs

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  • What is the price for a month-long 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.
  • Which is the popular car rental choice in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Which car hire company offers the most affordable rates in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Which is the top car hire firm in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What's the best way to locate nearby car hire services in 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.
  • Where is the best place to hire a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What is the weekly rental price for a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What is the price for a month-long car rental in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What is driving like in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What is the minimum age requirement to hire a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • How are gas prices in Costa Rica?
    Gasoline prices in Costa Rica are relatively high compared to neighbouring countries. It's advisable to budget for fuel expenses accordingly.
  • What are the speed limits in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Do I need a special license to rent a car in Costa Rica?
    We suggest getting an international driver's license, especially if your native license isn't in English or Spanish.
  • Are there any additional fees when renting a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Can I drive my rental car to other countries from Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Is it necessary to have car insurance when renting a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Are child car seats required for young passengers in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Can I rent a car if I'm under 25 years old?
    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.
  • Are there toll roads in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What should I do if I have an accident or breakdown with my rental car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • How can Finalrentals help me hire a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • How much does It cost to rent a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What are the speed limits in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • Do I need insurance to rent a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What are the age requirements for renting a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • What documents do I need to rent a car in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • How much does petrol cost in Costa Rica?
    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.
  • How much in advance should I book my car rental in Costa Rica?
    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.

Learn The
Costa Rican Ways

To us, we call this colourful country that is vibrant with an artistic feel Costa Rica, but to the natives of Costa Rica, they refer their country as Tiquicia

If you want to go somewhere where you can always feel cheerful, Costa Rica is the place to go. Costa Rica was named the happiest country in the world in 2012.

If you love animals, Costa Rica is among the most biodiverse destinations globally, with over 500,000 types of wildlife, many of which have been designated rare or endangered. 

Since Costa Rica borders the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans on each side, you can witness the sunset and sunrise on the same day. On one end, watch the sunrise, then hop into a car and proceed over to view the setting sun on the other side.

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Finalrentals is Clear in Terms of Rental Policy

"I had always enjoyed travelling and desired a more thrilling adventure. I discovered Finalrentals when looking for a rental car in Costa Rica, and I've never looked back." 

Isaac Harding. Finalrentals customer in the United Kingdom