Call Toll-Free CA & USA:

+1 855-915-1450

Costa Rica Direct:

+506 8410-3646

Text from USA:

+1 321-593-1517

WhatsApp:

+506 8410-3646

Book Now!

Call Toll-Free CA & USA:

+1 855-915-1450

Costa Rica Direct:

+506 8410-3646

Text from USA:

+1 321-593-1517

WhatsApp:

+506 8410-3646

Book Now!

Your Complete Car Rental Guide for Costa Rica

Understand pricing, insurance, deposits, and every detail — clearly explained, with zero confusion.

Renting a car in Costa Rica shouldn’t be stressful, confusing, or filled with hidden fees.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know so you can travel with confidence, avoid surprises, and choose the right options for your trip.

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Book Your Car Now

Reserve in 2 minutes. Pay at the counter. No credit card required online.

What You’ll Learn in This Rental Guide

A quick overview of everything we explain in clear, simple language.

“Clarity is the most powerful way to earn a traveler’s trust.” — Green Alliance Costa Rica

Add a bullet list to your content:

1. Mandatory vs Optional Insurance
Understand what’s required by Costa Rican law and what’s up to you.
2. Pricing Breakdown: TyK vs All-Inclusive Rates
Learn why prices vary online and how each model works.
3. Deposits & Credit Card Requirements
What to expect at pickup and how deposit amounts are determined.
4. Taxes & Fees Explained
The exact costs you should expect — with no surprises.
5. Coverage Options at the Counter
Zero Liability, Glass & Tire, Roadside Assistance, and more.
6. What’s Included With Every Rental
Free perks, what you get automatically, and how to maximize value.
7. Vehicle Types & What They’re Best For
Economy, SUVs, 4x4, vans — pick the right car for your destinations.
8. Pickup Process: SJO, LIR & Destinations
How airport pickup works and what you should bring.
9. Driving Recommendations for Your Trip
Safety tips, road conditions, night driving, and local advice.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to the most common traveler questions.

1. Understanding Car Rental Insurance in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has mandatory insurance requirements, optional protections, and coverage rules that often confuse travelers. Here’s the simplest explanation you’ll find.

Mandatory Insurance (Required by Costa Rican Law)

This is basic protection required for all rentals in the country.
It covers third-party damages (people or property) in case of an accident.
Every renter must have it — no exceptions.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW / LDW)

This is the coverage that protects the rental vehicle itself in case of an accident.
Some credit cards cover this, but many do not work in Costa Rica.
If you use your credit card coverage, you may need to show proof.

Supplemental Coverage Options (Recommended)

These optional protections reduce or eliminate your deductible and give you more peace of mind.

Examples include:

- Zero Liability Coverage (removes financial responsibility for most damages)

- Glass & Tire Protection (common on rural roads)

- Roadside Assistance

- Enhanced Theft Protection

Optional coverages are helpful but never forced — you choose what you prefer.

What You Should Expect at Pickup

A friendly bilingual agent will:

- Explain each coverage in simple language

- Show what’s included and not included

- Help you choose what fits your trip

- Clarify deductibles (if any)

- Answer all your questions without pressure

The goal is clarity, not upselling.

See Available Cars & Prices“No pressure — you choose what’s best for you.”

2. Understanding TyK and All-Inclusive Pricing

Two pricing models, both designed to give you flexibility — here’s the simplest way to understand them.

TyK (Time & Kilometers) — Lowest Starting Price

TyK gives you the lowest possible base rate, and then you add what you need at pickup.

Perfect for travelers who:

- Want a low upfront price

- Prefer choosing coverages in person

- Don’t mind paying for the kilometers they use

How it works:
You pay a low base rental price + a small cost per kilometer.
At pickup, you select your coverage options.

All-Inclusive — Peace of Mind, No Math

All-inclusive options bundle most protections into one daily price.

Perfect for travelers who want:

- Simplicity

- A predictable total cost

- Fewer decisions at the counter

How it works:
One daily rate covers your car + most required protections.
You choose only a few optional coverages if you want them.

Which One Is Better?

Both are good — it depends on your style:

- Choose TyK if you want the lowest entry price

- Choose All-Inclusive if you prefer simplicity and predictability

Either way, you’ll receive a clear estimate before your trip and a transparent explanation at pickup.

See Available Cars & Prices“No hidden fees — you see everything upfront.”

3. Understanding Deposits and Credit Card Requirements

Every car rental company in Costa Rica requires a security deposit — here’s how it works and what to expect.

Why a Deposit Is Required

The security deposit is a temporary hold on your card.
It protects you and the rental company in case of accidents, damage, or policy violations.
It is not a charge, and it is released after you return the vehicle in good condition.

How the Deposit Amount Is Determined

The amount depends on:

- The type of vehicle (economy, SUV, van)

- The coverage you select at pickup

- Whether you bring your own credit card coverage

Higher coverage = lower deposit.
Lower coverage = higher deposit.

Simple.

What Type of Credit Card You Need

Most rentals require a major credit card (Visa or Mastercard).
Some debit cards are accepted with specific conditions.
Your confirmation email will include the exact options available for your reservation.

When You Get the Deposit Back

Once the car is returned and inspected, the deposit is released.

Depending on your bank, it usually takes:

- 3–7 business days for credit cards

- Up to 10 days for debit cards

“We explain your deposit amount clearly before you travel — no surprises at the counter.”

See Available Cars & Prices

4. Taxes and Fees in Costa Rica, Explained Simply

No confusing terms. No hidden add-ons. Just a clear explanation of what’s required and what’s optional.

VAT (Value Added Tax)

Costa Rica applies a 13% VAT tax to all car rentals.
This is a national tax and cannot be removed or changed.
Every company must charge it — no exceptions.

Mandatory Insurance Fees

These are required by Costa Rican law and apply to every rental.
They cover damages to third parties and basic protection for the vehicle.
You’ll see them clearly listed in your estimate.

Optional Protection Packages

These are not required but offer extra peace of mind.

Examples include:

- Zero Liability

- Glass & Tire Protection

- Roadside Assistance
You choose these at the counter only if you feel they make sense for your trip.

Fuel Policy

Most rentals follow a same-to-same policy:
You return the car with the same amount of fuel you received.

No Hidden Fees — Ever

We show you everything in plain English before you travel.
No last-minute add-ons.
No “surprise” charges.
No tricky terms.

“Your confirmation email includes a full price breakdown — clear, simple, honest.”

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5. Coverage Options You Can Choose at the Counter

Simple explanations of what each protection does — so you can pick what feels right for your trip.

Zero Liability Coverage

This option removes or greatly reduces your financial responsibility for most types of damage.
Perfect for travelers who want maximum peace of mind.

Glass & Tire Protection

Costa Rica has rural roads, gravel, and natural obstacles.

This add-on protects you from the most common issues:

- Cracked windshields

- Flat tires

- Rim damage
Highly recommended if you’re visiting beaches, mountains, or remote areas.

Roadside Assistance

For added confidence during your trip.

Covers services like:

- Battery jump-start

- Towing

- Emergency support

- Assistance for minor on-road issues

Enhanced Theft Protection

Provides additional protection in the rare event of vehicle theft or attempted theft.
Good for long road trips and overnight parking in unfamiliar areas.

Your Agent Will Explain Everything Clearly

At pickup, a friendly bilingual agent walks you through each option using simple, clear language.
You choose what you want — no pressure, ever.

“We explain your deposit amount clearly before you travel — no surprises at the counter.”

See Available Cars & Prices“Optional — choose only what you need”

6. Everything That’s Automatically Included With Your Rental

These perks come with every reservation — no extra cost, no hidden conditions, no surprises.

FREE Unlimited Mileage

Drive as far as you want, anywhere in Costa Rica, without paying extra per kilometer.

FREE Extra Driver

Share the driving with your partner, friend, or family member at no additional cost.

FREE Airport Pick-Up & Drop-Off (SJO & LIR)

We meet you at the airport and take you directly to your vehicle — fast, easy, and stress-free.

FREE Cancellation

Change of plans? No problem.
You can cancel within the allowed period at no charge.

NO Prepayment Required

Reserve now and pay at the counter.
No credit card needed during online booking.

Transparent Price Estimate Before Arrival

You receive a clear, simple breakdown of your estimated total.
No last-minute add-ons or tricks when you pick up the car.

Start Your Reservation

7. Choosing the Right Vehicle for Your Costa Rica Adventure

Different destinations require different types of cars. Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the best fit for your trip.

Compact SUVs

The most popular choice for Costa Rica.
Comfortable, practical, and able to handle most routes, including some rural areas and mild off-road conditions.

Full-Size SUVs / 4x4 Vehicles

Recommended for:

- Mountain areas

- Beaches

- Water crossings

- Rural zones

- Rainy season travel
If you’re exploring nature, surfing towns, or remote destinations — this is your safest option.

Vans / Minivans

Best for families and groups.
Comfortable, roomy, and perfect for long drives with luggage, strollers, or gear.

Which One Should You Choose?

- City + Volcano + Beach towns → Compact SUV

- Rainy season + mountains + rural routes → Full 4x4

- Families or groups → Minivan / Large SUV

- Budget & light travel → Economy car

See Cars & Rates

8. How the Pickup Process Works at SJO, LIR, and Popular Destinations

Clear, simple, and fast — so you can get your car and start your adventure without stress.

Economy Cars

Great for solo travelers or couples visiting cities, highways, and popular tourist areas.
Easy to drive, fuel-efficient, and ideal for shorter distances.

Airport Pick-Up — SJO (San José)

When you land, a friendly representative will be waiting for you at the arrivals area.
They’ll assist you with your luggage and take you directly to your vehicle for a quick, smooth handover.

Airport Pick-Up — LIR (Liberia)

At Liberia Airport, the process is just as easy.
You will meet our representative outside the terminal, and they will escort you directly to your car.
No long lines or confusing instructions.

Destination Pick-Up (Hotels & Local Areas)

If you prefer, we also arrange pick-up and drop-off at:

- Hotels

- Vacation rentals

- Airbnbs

- Popular tourist zones

A representative will come to you and complete the process on-site.

What You Need to Bring

- Your passport

- A valid driver’s license (from your home country)

- A major credit card for the deposit

- Your digital reservation confirmation

Time Required

Most pickups take 10–15 minutes.
Coverage is explained clearly, you choose what you want, and you get your keys.

Start Your Reservation“Fast, Friendly, and Bilingual Team”

9. Driving in Costa Rica: Safety Tips and What to Expect on the Road

Costa Rica is incredible to explore by car — here are the essential tips every traveler should know before driving.

Curves, Mountains & Changing Terrain

Costa Rica has winding mountain roads with sharp turns, sudden elevation changes, and beautiful but challenging terrain.
Drive at a safe speed and stay alert.

Night Driving (Not Recommended)

We don’t recommend driving long distances at night, especially in rural or unfamiliar areas.
Visibility is limited, and roads may not be well-lit.

Road Conditions: Potholes & Gravel

Some routes are paved and excellent; others may have potholes or gravel sections.
A 4x4 is recommended if you’re visiting beaches, mountains, or remote zones.

Parking & Belongings

Never leave valuables visible inside the car.
Always lock the vehicle and keep belongings in the trunk or with you.

Using Waze or Google Maps

Navigation tools work well in Costa Rica.

- Waze is best for real-time traffic

- Google Maps is best for long routes
Download offline maps if traveling to remote areas.

Wildlife on the Road

Costa Rica is full of life — monkeys, coatis, sloths, cows, and dogs may cross unexpectedly.
Be cautious and enjoy the scenery responsibly.

Tolls (Peajes) & Payments

Some highways have toll booths and accept cash (colones) or card.
They are inexpensive and help maintain the roads.

Weather Considerations

During the rainy season, roads can become slippery, and river crossings may rise.
If you’re unsure, ask us — we can guide you on the safest route.

See Cars & Rates

Need help choosing a vehicle for your route? Contact us.

10. Common Questions About Renting a Car in

Costa Rica

Clear, straightforward answers to help you feel confident and fully prepared for your trip.

Narrow Roads & One-Lane Bridges

Many rural roads and bridges are narrow and may only fit one car at a time.
Drive slowly, take turns, and always yield when needed.

FAQ 1 — Do I need an international driver’s license?

No. Your valid driver’s license from your home country is enough.

FAQ 2 — Can I rent a car if I’m under 25?

Yes, but some rentals may apply a young driver fee.
We’ll let you know in advance if it applies.

FAQ 3 — How do insurance and coverage work?

Costa Rica has mandatory insurance, plus optional protections you can choose at pickup.
We explain everything clearly so you can choose what’s right for your trip.

FAQ 4 — Are deposits refundable?

Yes. The deposit is a temporary hold, released after the car is returned in good condition.

FAQ 5 — Are road conditions safe for driving?

Yes. Main routes are well-maintained, and thousands of tourists drive safely every day.
Just follow local tips: avoid long night drives, watch for wildlife, and go slow on rural roads.