How to Rent a Car in Costa Rica

Planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering about renting a car? You’re making a smart choice. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore hidden beaches, remote waterfalls, and charming mountain towns at your own pace. Here’s everything you need to know about renting a car in this beautiful Central American paradise.

Understanding Your Car Options

Costa Rica’s rental market offers several vehicle categories to match different travel styles and budgets:

Economy and Compact Cars are perfect for travelers sticking to main highways and paved roads. These fuel-efficient options work well if you’re planning to visit major destinations like San José, Liberia, Manuel Antonio, or the central Pacific coast. They’re the most affordable choice and handle well on Costa Rica’s main arterial roads.

Mid-size Sedans provide extra comfort and trunk space for longer trips or families with more luggage. They’re still suitable for paved roads and offer better air conditioning performance, which matters when you’re driving through humid coastal regions.

SUVs and 4x4 Vehicles are the workhorses of Costa Rican travel. These vehicles sit higher off the ground, handle rough roads better, and offer more space for passengers and gear. Many travelers opt for these even if they’re not planning extensive off-road adventures.

Do You Really Need a 4x4?

This is one of the most debated questions among Costa Rica travelers, and the honest answer is: it depends on your itinerary.

You probably need a 4x4 if you’re:

• Visiting remote beach towns like Santa Teresa, Montezuma, or parts of the Nicoya Peninsula
• Heading to Monteverde or other mountainous regions during rainy season (May through November)
• Planning to explore national parks with unpaved access roads
• Traveling during the rainy season when roads can become muddy and rutted
• Venturing off the beaten path to waterfalls or hidden spots

You can skip the 4x4 if you’re:

• Staying mainly in the Central Valley and major tourist areas
• Visiting during dry season (December through April) and sticking to paved routes
• Only going to well-developed areas like Tamarindo, Jacó, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo
• Traveling on a tight budget and want to save on rental costs

Keep in mind that some rental companies require 4x4 vehicles for certain destinations regardless of season, so always check your contract carefully.

Navigating Costa Rican Insurance Requirements

Insurance is perhaps the most confusing aspect of renting a car in Costa Rica, and it’s where many travelers get caught off guard. Here’s what you need to know:

Mandatory Basic Insurance is required by Costa Rican law. This typically includes liability coverage and is not negotiable. Even if your credit card or personal insurance covers rentals, you must purchase the mandatory local insurance, which usually costs $12-20 per day.

Full Coverage (CDW/LDW) is optional but highly recommended. This collision damage waiver protects you from being liable for damage to the rental vehicle. Without it, you’re responsible for the full value of any damage. This typically adds $15-35 per day to your rental cost.

Third-party Liability coverage protects you if you damage someone else’s property or vehicle. Some rental companies include this; others offer it as an add-on. Make sure you understand what’s covered.

Credit Card Coverage can be tricky in Costa Rica. While some premium credit cards offer rental car insurance, not all of them cover Costa Rica, and the mandatory basic insurance is still required. Call your credit card company before your trip to confirm exactly what’s covered.

Most experienced travelers recommend getting full coverage. Costa Rican roads can be challenging, with potholes, unmarked speed bumps, wandering animals, and unpredictable driving conditions. The peace of mind is usually worth the extra cost.

What You’ll Need to Rent

Rental companies in Costa Rica require:

• A valid driver’s license from your home country (held for at least 2 years typically)
• A passport
• A major credit card in the driver’s name (debit cards are rarely accepted)
• Minimum age of 21-25 (varies by company and vehicle type)

Some companies may ask for an international driver’s permit, though it’s not legally required for tourists staying less than 90 days.

Practical Tips for Renting in Costa Rica

Book in advance. During high season (December through April), rental cars can sell out, and prices increase significantly. Booking 2-3 months ahead often saves money and ensures vehicle availability.

Inspect thoroughly. Walk around the vehicle with a rental agent before leaving the lot. Document every scratch, dent, and imperfection with photos or video. Check that the spare tire, jack, and warning triangle are present.

Understand the deposit. Rental companies typically hold $500-2,000 on your credit card as a security deposit. This is released after you return the vehicle undamaged, though it can take several days to appear back in your account.

Fill up before returning. Most companies require you to return the car with a full tank. Gas stations near airports and rental returns know this and may charge premium prices, so fill up earlier if possible.

Allow extra time. Return the car at least 2-3 hours before an international flight. The inspection process can take time, and you’ll need to account for shuttle rides back to the terminal.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Once you’ve got your rental sorted, you’ll want to know what to expect on Costa Rican roads. From navigating unmarked speed bumps to handling river crossings, driving in Costa Rica has its own unique challenges and quirks. Check out our companion guide on driving in Costa Rica for everything you need to know about road conditions, traffic culture, and staying safe behind the wheel.

Bottom Line

Renting a car in Costa Rica opens up incredible opportunities to explore beyond the typical tourist circuit. While it requires more planning and investment than in some countries, the freedom and flexibility make it worthwhile for most travelers. Choose your vehicle based on your actual itinerary, invest in proper insurance for peace of mind, and embrace the adventure that comes with navigating this beautiful country on your own schedule.