What's a reliable website for a Canadian to book a car in Costa Rica to avoid surprises?
For Canadian travelers, using a transparent booking platform is crucial to avoid hidden fees. QEEQ is an excellent choice. It often presents prices that are more inclusive, clearly outlining what is and isn't covered. Booking through QEEQ can help you compare options and understand the total cost upfront, which is a major advantage when dealing with Costa Rica's complex insurance rules.
I'm ready to book. What documents do I need as a Canadian?
For the online booking process, you just need your personal details and a credit card. The critical documents are required at the time of pickup.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Costa Rica with my Canadian license?
No. As a tourist, your valid Canadian provincial driver's license is sufficient to legally drive in Costa Rica for the duration of your 90-day tourist visa. The license must be in good condition and not expired. An IDP is not required.
What are the age requirements to rent a car?
The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, but some companies set it at 23 or even 25. Drivers between 21 and 24 should expect to pay a mandatory 'young driver' daily surcharge. Always verify the specific age policy of your rental when booking.
How do I add my spouse or a friend as an additional driver?
You can add an additional driver at the rental counter during pickup. They must be present with their valid Canadian driver's license and passport. There is usually a daily fee of around $10-$15 USD for each additional driver.
What kind of credit card do I need? Can I use a Visa Debit?
You must have a physical, embossed credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Amex) in the main driver's name. Debit cards, including Visa Debit, are not accepted for the security deposit. The card needs to have a sufficient credit limit to cover the large security deposit hold.
What hidden fees should I watch out for when I see a cheap online price?
The biggest surprise is the mandatory insurance, which is often excluded from initial online quotes. Other potential fees include airport taxes (around 13%), license plate fees, young driver fees, and additional driver fees. Using a transparent platform like QEEQ is beneficial, as they often bundle these costs for a clearer picture.
Is it better to pick up the car at the airport (SJO or LIR) or from a city office?
Picking up at the airport is most convenient. Most rental agencies are not inside the terminal but are located a short 5-10 minute shuttle ride away. While a city office might seem cheaper, the logistics of getting there with luggage can offset the savings. Pro-Tip: If you're staying in San José for a day or two upon arrival, take a taxi/Uber to your hotel and have the car delivered there or pick it up from a city office the day you leave town. This saves you money and the stress of city driving.
I've booked my car through QEEQ. What should I double-check on my confirmation voucher?
Carefully review your confirmation from QEEQ. Check the vehicle type (Automatic/Manual, 4x4/Sedan), pickup/drop-off dates and times, and most importantly, the section detailing the included and excluded insurance. Print a copy or have a digital version ready for the rental counter.
Is it better to pay in US Dollars or Costa Rican Colones?
Car rentals are almost always quoted and charged in US Dollars. It's best to pay with your credit card in USD to avoid unfavorable conversion rates set by the rental company. Inform your Canadian credit card company of your travel dates to prevent your card from being blocked.
What is this mandatory TPL/SLI insurance I keep hearing about?
TPL (Third Party Liability), also known as SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance), is legally required by the Costa Rican government for all rental cars. It cannot be declined or waived. This insurance covers damages or injury to third parties (i.e., people or property outside your rental car). Any rental quote you see that seems incredibly cheap likely does not include this mandatory cost, which will be added at the counter.
My premium Canadian credit card (e.g., Amex Platinum, Visa Infinite) offers car rental insurance. Can I use it to decline ALL the insurance at the counter in Costa Rica?
NO. This is the most critical point for Canadians. Your credit card insurance is a form of Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers damage to or theft of the rental vehicle itself. It does NOT provide Third Party Liability (TPL) coverage, which is the legally mandatory insurance in Costa Rica. You absolutely cannot waive the TPL.
So what's the difference between the mandatory TPL and the optional CDW?
It's simple: TPL/SLI (Mandatory) covers damage to others. You hit another car, a fence, or injure a person. This is required by law. CDW/LDW (Optional, but highly recommended) covers damage to your rental car. A scratch, a dent, or even total theft of the vehicle. You can often decline this if you use credit card coverage, but there's a catch.
Can my Canadian credit card insurance cover the CDW portion? How do I do that?
Yes, many premium Canadian credit cards can cover the CDW. To do this, you must: 1) Confirm with your credit card provider before you travel that they offer CDW coverage in Costa Rica and understand their terms. 2) At the rental counter, you must explicitly decline the rental company's CDW. 3) You must pay for the entire rental using that specific credit card. 4) Be prepared for the consequences (see next question).
What happens if I decline the rental company's CDW and use my credit card's insurance instead?
When you decline the rental company's CDW, they lose their primary protection on the vehicle. To protect themselves, they will place a very large security deposit hold on your credit card. This can range from $2,000 to $5,000 USD. This amount will be frozen on your card for the duration of your rental, reducing your available credit.
Is it worth declining the CDW to save money? What are the risks?
It's a trade-off. You save the daily CDW fee (approx. $20-$30 USD/day), but you take on more risk and a huge credit card hold. If any damage occurs, the rental company will charge your card for the full cost of repairs, and you will be responsible for filing a claim with your Canadian credit card company to get reimbursed. This can be a slow and paperwork-heavy process. Pro-Tip: For a hassle-free vacation, many travelers find it worth the extra cost to simply accept the rental company's CDW, which usually comes with a much lower security deposit ($500-$1000 USD).
What is "Zero Deductible" or "Full Coverage" insurance?
This is an add-on policy that reduces your financial responsibility (deductible) to zero in case of an accident. If you buy the basic CDW, you might still be responsible for the first $500-$1500 of damage. The "Zero Deductible" option eliminates that, offering complete peace of mind. It often includes coverage for things like tires and glass, which are typically excluded from basic CDW.
I see insurance options on QEEQ. How does that work?
QEEQ and other third-party platforms may offer their own rental car damage protection plans. These are reimbursement policies, not direct insurance. This means if damage occurs, you pay the rental company first and then file a claim with the third-party provider for reimbursement. This is similar to using credit card insurance and still requires you to accept the large security deposit from the rental company.
What's the best insurance strategy for a worry-free trip?
For maximum peace of mind: 1) Accept the mandatory TPL/SLI at the counter (unavoidable). 2) Accept the rental company's CDW/LDW. 3) Consider adding the Zero Deductible/Full Coverage option for complete protection and a low security deposit. This "all-in" approach is the most expensive, but it minimizes financial risk and potential vacation stress.
Does any of this insurance cover damage from crossing a river?
Almost never. Driving through rivers, on beaches, or in other clearly prohibited areas will void most, if not all, insurance coverage (TPL and CDW). If the car is damaged in such a situation, you will be responsible for 100% of the repair or replacement costs.
What is the typical pickup process at the San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) airport?
After clearing immigration and customs, you'll see representatives from rental companies in the arrivals hall. Find yours, check in, and they will guide you to a shuttle bus. The shuttle will take you on a 5-10 minute drive to their off-site rental office where you'll complete the paperwork and pick up the car.
What exact documents do I need to present at the counter?
You will need three things: 1) Your Passport with a valid Costa Rican entry stamp. 2) Your valid Canadian provincial driver's license. 3) A physical, embossed Credit Card in the exact same name as the primary driver on the rental agreement.
The rental contract is in Spanish. What key things should I look for before signing?
Ask for an English version or for the agent to slowly explain the key points. Verify the daily rate, the exact insurance policies you have accepted or declined, the total estimated cost, and the amount of the security deposit hold. Do not sign until you understand and agree with all the charges.
What exactly should I check on the car before I drive it off the lot?
Be meticulous. Use your phone to take a detailed video and photos of the entire car. Exterior: Document every single scratch, dent, and scuff, no matter how small. Point them out to the agent and ensure they are marked on the rental diagram. Tires: Check the tread and condition. Windshield: Look for any chips or cracks. Interior: Check for stains, tears, and make sure the A/C, radio, and wipers work. Safety Equipment: Confirm the spare tire, jack, and warning triangle are in the trunk.
How much money will they hold on my credit card for the security deposit?
This depends on the insurance you choose. With rental company's CDW: Typically $500 - $1,000 USD. Declining CDW (using credit card insurance): Typically $2,000 - $5,000 USD. Ensure your credit limit can handle this hold plus your other travel expenses.
I feel like the agent is aggressively upselling me on more insurance or a vehicle upgrade. How do I handle this?
Stay calm and firm. Refer to your booking voucher from QEEQ. Politely state, "Thank you, but I will stick with my original reservation and the insurance I've decided on." If you chose to use your credit card's CDW, be prepared to politely decline the company's CDW multiple times.
What are the most important questions to ask before I leave the rental office?
Ask: 1) "What type of fuel does this car take?" (Super or Regular). 2) "What is the emergency contact number for an accident or breakdown?" 3) "Can you confirm the exact amount of the security deposit hold?"
How are the road conditions really?
They are highly variable. Main highways like the Pan-American Highway and Route 34 to the coast are generally well-paved. However, once you turn off onto secondary roads to beaches, national parks, or mountain towns, conditions can quickly deteriorate to gravel, dirt, and potholes. Drive defensively and slower than you would in Canada.
You mentioned Waze is better than Google Maps. Why?
Waze is king in Costa Rica because it relies on real-time user reports. It will alert you to traffic jams, accidents, police ("Transitos"), road hazards (like a washed-out bridge), and will often find more efficient routes than Google Maps. It's indispensable.
How do I understand Costa Rican road signs and speed limits?
Signs are in Spanish, but many are intuitive (e.g., a picture of a deer for wildlife crossing). Key phrases: "ALTO" (Stop), "CEDA EL PASO" (Yield), "DESPACIO" (Slow). Speed limits are in kilometers per hour (km/h). They are typically 80-100 km/h on highways, 60 km/h on secondary roads, and 25-40 km/h in towns and school zones. Limits are strictly enforced.
Are gas stations self-serve? How do I pay?
All gas stations are full-service. An attendant ("bombero") will pump the gas for you. Just say, "Super/Regular, lleno por favor" (Super/Regular, full please). You can pay with a credit card or cash (Colones or USD). Pro-Tip: Always watch the attendant to ensure they zero out the pump before starting and that you are charged the correct amount.
What are the best practices for parking safely?
Never leave valuables visible in your car. Ever. In towns and at popular beaches, you'll often see informal parking attendants ("guachimanes") who will watch your car for a small fee (500-1000 colones, about $1-2 CAD). It's worth paying them for peace of mind. Otherwise, always use official, paid parking lots.
Is it safe to drive at night?
It is strongly discouraged, especially for tourists. Roads are poorly lit, signage can be sparse, potholes are hard to see, and you may encounter cyclists, pedestrians, or animals on the road unexpectedly. Plan your driving to be completed before sunset (around 6 PM year-round).
I've heard about river crossings. Is this common and does my rental car insurance cover damage from it?
River crossings are only common on very remote, secondary roads (e.g., parts of the Nicoya Peninsula or Osa Peninsula). As a rule, if you see a river crossing and you're not a local, don't do it. Your rental insurance is voided if you damage the car while crossing a river. Find another route.
What do I do if I encounter a sloth or monkey on the road?
Slow down and stop if it's safe to do so. Enjoy the moment from inside your car. Do not honk or get out to approach the animal. Wait for it to clear the road on its own. Be patient; this is part of the Costa Rican driving experience!
What should I do if I get pulled over by the "Transito" (traffic police)?
Pull over safely. The police should be in a marked vehicle and wearing a proper uniform. Be polite and provide your driver's license, passport, and rental car documents. If they issue a ticket, they will give you a physical slip. You do not pay fines directly to the officer. The fine is paid later through the rental company.
What are some unique local driving rules or habits I should know?
A "Ceda el Paso" at a one-lane bridge means you must yield to oncoming traffic that has the right of way. At roundabouts ("rotondas"), traffic already inside the circle has the right of way. Drivers often use their hazard lights to signal a sudden stop or hazard ahead.
What is the absolute first thing I should do if I get into a minor car accident?
DO NOT MOVE THE CAR. This is a legal requirement in Costa Rica, even if it's blocking traffic. Moving the car before the police and insurance inspector arrive can void your insurance claim. 1) Call 911 for emergencies. 2) Immediately call the emergency number provided by your rental car company. They will guide you through the process and send an insurance assessor. 3) Take photos of the scene, the damage, and the other vehicle's license plate.
I got a traffic ticket. How do I pay it?
You don't pay it on the spot. The rental car company will receive notification of the fine, pay it on your behalf, and then charge the amount (plus an administrative fee) to the credit card you have on file. Keep the physical ticket for your records.
What can I expect during the car return process?
An agent will conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle, comparing its condition to the photos and diagram from your pickup. They will check the fuel level, interior, and exterior. Allow at least 30-45 minutes for this process before you need to catch your airport shuttle.
What is the "Full-to-Full" fuel policy?
This means you pick up the car with a full tank of gas and are required to return it with a full tank. Pro-Tip: Find a gas station within a few kilometers of the rental office and fill up right before you return the car. Keep the receipt as proof. If you don't return it full, the rental company will charge you a significantly inflated per-litre price to refuel it.
I've returned the car. How long does it take to get my security deposit hold back?
The rental company will release the hold immediately upon a successful return. However, it can take 5 to 15 business days for the pending charge to disappear from your Canadian credit card statement, depending on your bank's processing times. If it takes longer than three weeks, contact your credit card company first, then the rental agency.
