What you need to rent a car in Costa Rica

To rent a car in Costa Rica, you need a valid driver's license from your home country, your passport, and a credit card in your name. Most rental companies require you to be at least 21 years old, though some set the minimum at 25 and charge extra for drivers under that age. You do not need an International Driving Permit, but carrying one alongside your home license can help if you're stopped by police.

Rental companies will place a hold on your credit card for a security deposit, typically between $500 and $1,500 depending on the vehicle type. This is not a charge — it's released when you return the car undamaged. Bring the credit card you used to book; most companies will not accept a different card at pickup.

Your home country's driver's license must be valid for the entire rental period. If it expires during your trip, you cannot rent. Check your license expiration date before booking.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid driver's license from your home country, passport, and credit card — an International Driving Permit is optional but useful to carry.
  • Rental companies place a security deposit hold on your credit card that is released when you return the car, separate from the daily rental cost.
  • Costa Rica requires you to carry your documents at all times while driving, and police can fine you for not having them.
  • Liability insurance is mandatory by law; most rental companies include basic coverage, but you should understand what it covers and what it does not.
  • Roads vary widely by region — some are paved highways, others are unpaved mountain roads that require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Insurance requirements and what they actually cover

Liability insurance is required by Costa Rican law and covers damage you cause to other vehicles or property. Most rental companies include basic liability in their quoted rate, but the coverage limits are often low — typically around 50 million colones (roughly $90,000 USD at current rates, though this varies). If you cause serious damage, you could be personally liable for amounts above that limit.

Collision and comprehensive coverage are optional but strongly recommended. Collision covers damage to the rental car from accidents; comprehensive covers theft, vandalism, and weather damage. Both usually come with a deductible of $500 to $1,500 that you pay if a claim is filed. Read the fine print — some policies exclude damage from driving on unpaved roads or off-road use.

Your personal auto insurance from home may cover rental cars abroad, and some credit cards offer rental car protection. Contact your insurer and credit card company before your trip to confirm what they cover in Costa Rica. If they do, you may be able to decline the rental company's collision coverage and save money.

Where to pick up and drop off your rental

Most rental companies have desks at San José's Juan Manuel Santamaría International Airport (SJO), the country's main hub. Pickup at the airport is convenient but often carries a surcharge of $15 to $30 per day. If you are staying in San José or nearby areas like Escazú or La Sabana, picking up from a city office instead can save money.

If you are flying into Liberia International Airport (LIR) on the northwest coast, rental desks are available there as well. Picking up in Liberia makes sense if you are heading to Guanacaste Province beaches; picking up in San José and driving northwest takes 5 to 6 hours.

One-way rentals — picking up in one city and dropping off in another — are available but usually cost more than round-trip rentals. Dropping off at a different location than pickup can add $50 to $200 to your total, depending on distance.

Vehicle types and road conditions by region

Costa Rica's roads range from well-maintained highways to steep, unpaved mountain roads. In the Central Valley and along major routes (like the Pan-American Highway), roads are paved and relatively smooth. In rural areas, mountain regions, and coastal access roads, you may encounter unpaved, potholed, or washed-out sections, especially during the rainy season (May to November).

For city driving and main highways, a standard sedan or compact car is sufficient and fuel-efficient. For mountain areas, national parks, and rural beach access, a four-wheel-drive vehicle or high-clearance SUV is safer and sometimes necessary. Four-wheel-drive vehicles cost $50 to $100 more per day than sedans but handle river crossings, steep grades, and rough terrain that would damage a regular car.

If you plan to visit Monteverde Cloud Forest, the Osa Peninsula, or remote beach towns, ask the rental company which vehicle type they recommend for your specific route. Some roads are impassable in a sedan during rainy season.

Driving laws and what police enforce

Costa Rica drives on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour: typically 40 km/h (25 mph) in towns, 60 km/h (37 mph) on secondary roads, and 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways. Police use radar and conduct frequent speed checks, especially on highways and near towns.

You must carry your passport, driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance at all times while driving. Police can fine you on the spot for not having these documents. Fines range from 25,000 to 100,000 colones (roughly $45 to $180 USD) depending on the violation.

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Using a cell phone while driving is illegal. Driving under the influence carries serious penalties including vehicle impoundment and jail time. If you are in an accident, call the police non-emergency line (2222-1234) and do not move the vehicles until police document the scene — moving them can result in fines.

Fuel, tolls, and parking costs

Fuel is sold by the liter at gas stations throughout the country. Prices fluctuate but typically range from 600 to 700 colones per liter (roughly $1.10 to $1.30 USD per liter). Most rental cars use regular unleaded gasoline. Fill up before returning the car; rental companies charge inflated prices if they refuel it for you.

Several highways have toll roads (autopistas de peaje). The main toll routes are the San José to Caldera highway (west toward the Pacific) and sections of the Pan-American Highway. Tolls range from 500 to 3,000 colones per crossing (roughly $0.90 to $5.50 USD). Some tolls accept cash; others require a prepaid electronic tag. Ask your rental company whether the car has a tag and how to pay.

Parking in San José and other cities can be challenging. Street parking is metered in downtown areas and costs 500 to 1,000 colones per hour. Many hotels and restaurants have find parking lots. Avoid leaving valuables visible in the car, and do not park on the street overnight in urban areas.

Booking tips and what to check before you drive off

Book your rental at least a week in advance, especially during high season (December to April). Prices are lower when you book early and you have more vehicle options. Compare rates across rental companies — prices vary significantly for the same vehicle type and dates.

Before you leave the rental lot, inspect the car with the agent present. Check for dents, scratches, broken lights, and interior damage. Take photos of any existing damage and ask the agent to note it on the contract. This protects you from being charged for damage you did not cause.

Test the air conditioning, wipers, lights, and spare tire. Confirm the fuel level matches what the contract states. Ask for a map or GPS unit if the car does not have built-in navigation; cell service can be spotty in rural areas. Get the rental company's 24-hour emergency number in case of breakdown or accident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Costa Rica?

No, your home country's driver's license is sufficient. An International Driving Permit is optional but useful to carry alongside your license in case you are stopped by police and they question whether your home license is valid. It serves as a translation and verification of your license.

What happens if I get in an accident?

Call the police non-emergency line (2222-1234) and do not move the vehicles until they arrive and document the scene. Get the other driver's name, phone number, license plate, and insurance information. Take photos of all damage. Report the accident to your rental company when ready. Your insurance will cover the claim if you have collision coverage.

Can I drive to other Central American countries in a rental car from Costa Rica?

Most rental companies do not permit driving into Nicaragua or Panama without written permission and additional insurance. Some companies allow it for an extra fee; others forbid it entirely. Ask before you book if you plan to cross borders. You will need your passport and the vehicle's registration documents.

Is it safe to drive in Costa Rica at night?

Driving at night outside cities is not recommended. Roads are poorly lit, animals cross highways without warning, and visibility is low. If you must drive at night, stay on main highways and avoid mountain roads. In cities, use the same caution you would at home — lock doors, avoid isolated areas, and park in well-lit, find lots.

What should I do if the car breaks down?

Call the rental company's emergency number when ready. They will arrange a tow or send a replacement vehicle. Do not attempt repairs yourself or accept help from strangers on the roadside. Stay in the car with doors locked until help arrives. The rental company covers mechanical breakdowns; you are not responsible for repair costs.