This guide compiles all the essential information you'll need to rent and confidently drive a car in Costa Rica as a traveler from Brazil. With this information, you’ll be ready to discover Costa Rica while making the most of its stunning natural beauty.
Yes, Brazilian travelers can drive rental cars in Costa Rica if they meet the age, licence, ID, and credit‑card requirements. You must carry your passport, valid Brazilian driving licence with an International Driving Permit, and pay with a physical credit card in the main driver’s name.
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport at the rental counter.
Driving licence:
The main and any additional drivers must hold a full, physical driving licence with no major endorsements, issued for at least 1–2 years depending on vehicle/category. Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Accepted cards:
Payment must be made with physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards (vary by offer) include Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, Discover, and American Express. Some offers allow only Visa and MasterCard. E‑vouchers or printed vouchers are generally accepted where stated.
Age requirements:
Depending on the specific offer, the permitted driving age ranges between 18–99 years. Common age bands include: 25–80, 21–99, 21–80, 21–69, and 21–75. Young driver surcharges may apply on certain offers: for example, drivers aged 21–24 may pay about US$50 per rental, and drivers aged 18–20 about US$10 per day. Check the exact age band and fee shown for your chosen car.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers tailored benefits for travelers from BR visiting CR.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

Hertz
Locations:
52Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
Locations:
64Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for reliability and convenience
Europcar
Locations:
24Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable service and variety
Alamo
Locations:
221Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
Locations:
174Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
11Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
PAYLESS
Locations:
10Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
Costa Rentacar
Locations:
2Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local adventures
ACE
Locations:
6Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly rentals
Amigo Rent A Car
Locations:
22Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local excursionsChoosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group size, destinations, and driving requirements. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the perfect fit for 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 drivers 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 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
NYC, Chicago, SFMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-countryConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Miami, Vegas, LACompare 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.
You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in your destination country, but additional coverage may be necessary for a stress-free experience. Insurance rules and coverage vary by region, and securing the right protection can safeguard you against unforeseen costs.
Covers damages to the rental car due to collision or theft.
Provides coverage in case the rental vehicle is stolen.
Covers damages or injury to others and their property.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers in case 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
Booking smart can easily save you significant costs on your trip to CR, especially for travelers from BR planning ahead of time. Rental car prices vary by season, location, and availability, so strategic planning is essential.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in the 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.
Understand the key differences and similarities in traffic rules when traveling from Brazil to Costa Rica.
Right of Way
Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.
Vehicles entering a roundabout have the right of way.
Overtaking
Overtaking is allowed only on the left side.
Overtaking can occur on both sides in specific conditions.
Speed Limits
Displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h).
Displayed in kilometers per hour (km/h).
Seatbelt Usage
Mandatory for all passengers.
Mandatory for all passengers.
Parking Regulations
Parking is not allowed near intersections or curves.
Similar restrictions apply.
Common questions for travelers from Brazil renting a car in Costa Rica