This guide addresses these questions, providing essential insights for stress-free car rentals in Costa Rica. Make the most of your adventure with our practical tips and resources.
Yes, Argentine travelers can legally drive in Costa Rica with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, Discover, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-20 incur a fee of US$ 10.00 per day, while those aged 21-24 incur a fee of US$ 50.00 per lease.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore trusted options for car rental services in CR, tailored for travelers from AR seeking convenience and quality.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands
Hertz
Locations:
62Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
Locations:
69Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for reliability and convenience
Europcar
Locations:
36Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable service and variety
Alamo
Locations:
228Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
Locations:
181Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
13Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
PAYLESS
Locations:
15Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
Costa Rentacar
Locations:
2Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local adventures
ACE
Locations:
10Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly rentals
Amigo Rent A Car
Locations:
22Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local excursionsChoosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in USA
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most visitors prefer automatic for USA road trips
Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your existing insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
San Jose, Alajuela, HerediaMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country across Costa RicaConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Tamarindo, Jaco, Monteverde
Compare with Confidence on QEEQ
The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.
To legally drive in Costa Rica, it's mandatory to have basic insurance. However, additional coverage is highly recommended to ensure peace of mind during your rental period. Be aware that insurance rules and coverage options vary, so understanding your needs and available choices is crucial.
Covers damage to the rental car in case of collision or theft.
Provides coverage against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers third-party claims for injury or property damage.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in the event of an accident.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Costa Rica. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Discover practical tips to make your car rental experience in Spain more affordable, especially for travelers from Argentina looking to explore the country without overspending.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in your destination country.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
While driving rules in Argentina and Costa Rica share similarities, differences in signage, priority rules, and traffic enforcement are critical for travelers to understand.
Right of Way
Vehicles on the main road have the right of way unless a sign indicates otherwise.
Priority is often given to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
Road Conditions
Roads can be narrow and mountainous, requiring careful driving.
Generally flat terrain, with urban areas being well-paved.
Alcohol Limits
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, stricter in some regions.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.50%, but enforcement is similar.
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices are mandatory while driving.
Similar rules; the use of mobile devices without hands-free systems is prohibited.
Seatbelt Use
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
Mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers.
Parking Rules
Avoid parking on yellow-marked curbs or obstructing traffic flow.
Parking in urban areas often requires permits; avoid 'prohibido estacionar' zones.
