Car Rental in Canada for US Travelers

Traveling from the United States to Canada and planning a road trip? Navigating the car rental process abroad can bring up a series of questions and considerations.

Do I need a special license to rent a car in Canada as a US citizen?
What are the insurance requirements for driving a rental car in Canada?
How do rental costs in Canada compare to those in the US?
Can I rent in one Canadian city and return the car in another?
Are there unique traffic laws or road sign differences I should be aware of in Canada?

Explore this detailed guide to help you rent and drive a car in Canada comfortably and confidently, making your trip as enjoyable as possible.

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Costa Rica?

Yes, Japanese 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)
or
• Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, AMEX, and Discover.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-20 incur an additional fee of US$ 10.00 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Polish travelers.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
62
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
69
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Flexible rental options
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Online booking discounts
Best for
Travelers looking for reliability and convenience
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
36
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network across 140 countries
- Diverse fleet including electric and hybrid cars
- 24/7 customer support
- Loyalty program for frequent renters
Best for
Travelers seeking reliable service and variety
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
228
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Easy online booking
- Unlimited mileage options
- Friendly customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
181
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
13
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
PAYLESS
global
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- User-friendly online booking system
- Flexible rental terms
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers

Costa Rentacar
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer support
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local adventures
ACE
local
8.5
Locations:
10
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Wide range of vehicle types
- Personalized service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Travelers seeking budget-friendly rentals
Amigo Rent A Car
local
8.5
Locations:
22
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Convenient location
- Competitive pricing
- No hidden fees
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local excursions

Recommendations for Polish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in USA
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip 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.

Seating and Luggage
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
Transmission Type
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 Polish drivers prefer automatic for USA road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
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 Polish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
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
Mileage Policy
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
Fuel Policy
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

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
NYC, Chicago, SF
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Miami, Vegas, LA

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

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.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in CR, but for peace of mind, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance policies can differ, so understanding your options ensures you have the right protection.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car due to collision or theft.
CLP 12,000-20,000/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Provides coverage against the theft of the rental vehicle.
CLP 4,000-6,500/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers damages to other people's property or injuries to third parties.
Usually included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for injuries to the driver and passengers.
CLP 3,500-7,000/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

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.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $35,100.00

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $35,100.00

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Planning a trip from Poland to the USA? Learn how to save on car rentals with these smart tips tailored to Polish travelers.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Rental prices often increase as your travel date approaches. Secure your car at least 4-6 weeks in advance to lock in lower rates and ensure availability.
Save up to 35%
Compare Different Platforms
Use rental comparison websites like QEEQ or Rentalcars to identify the best deals. These platforms aggregate offers from multiple providers, making it easier to find cost-effective options.
Save up to 20%
Opt for the Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
This option allows you to pick up the car with a full tank and return it the same way, avoiding costly refueling charges by the rental company.
Save PLN 80-150
Avoid Airport Pickups
Airport car rentals typically include additional fees. Consider renting from a city center location or nearby outlet to save on surcharges.
Save PLN 100-200
Leverage Credit Card Benefits
Many credit cards offer rental car insurance as a perk. Check with your card provider to avoid paying extra for coverage.
Save PLN 50-100 per day

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in the USA.

Hidden Fees
Watch out for extra charges that aren't included in the base price.
- Airport surcharges ($5-15/day)
- Young driver fees (under 25)
- Additional driver fees
- Equipment rentals (GPS, child seats)
- Toll road transponders
Insurance Pressure
Rental agents often push expensive insurance at pickup.
- Check your existing coverage first
- Credit card benefits may cover you
- Don't feel pressured to buy on the spot
- Understand what's actually needed
- Third-party insurance can be cheaper
Fuel Policies
Different fuel return policies can significantly impact costs.
- Full-to-full is usually cheapest
- Prepaid fuel is often overpriced
- Find gas stations near return location
- Keep fuel receipts as proof
- Return with same fuel level
Vehicle Inspection
Thorough inspection prevents disputes later.
- Take photos/videos of all damage
- Check tires, lights, and mirrors
- Test all electronics and A/C
- Document interior condition
- Note fuel level and mileage
Contract Terms
Read the fine print to avoid surprises.
- Mileage restrictions and fees
- Geographic driving limitations
- Return time policies (grace periods)
- Modification and cancellation terms
- Damage assessment procedures
Pickup & Return Times
Timing can affect your rental costs and experience.
- Plan arrival during business hours
- Allow extra time for airport locations
- Late returns may incur full-day charges
- Early returns rarely get refunds
- Rush hour affects travel to/from locations

Remember

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.

What Are The Difference Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

US and Polish traffic rules differ mainly in speed limits, signage units (miles vs. kilometers), alcohol tolerance (higher in the US), and right-on-red turns (more common in the US).

Right Turn on Red
CR
Allowed after a full stop (unless prohibited by sign)
CL
Not allowed at red lights
School Buses
CR
Must stop when the school bus has flashing red lights
CL
No special school bus rules
Highway Passing
CR
Pass on the left, slower traffic keeps right
CL
Similar, but passing on the right is sometimes allowed
Blood Alcohol Limit
CR
0.08% BAC (varies by state)
CL
0.02% BAC (much stricter)
Mobile Phone Use
CR
Hands-free only in most states
CL
Hands-free only
Seatbelt Laws
CR
Mandatory for all occupants in most states
CL
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
CR
Park in the direction of traffic, colored curbs have meanings
CL
Can park against traffic on one-way streets
Remember
- • Traffic rules vary by state - check local laws
- • Police stops are more common - stay calm and polite
- • Keep hands visible during police interactions
- • Always carry your license and rental agreement

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Chile renting a car in Costa Rica

Can I use my Chilean driver's license to rent a car in Costa Rica?

Yes, your valid Chilean driver's license is accepted in Costa Rica for up to 90 days, matching the standard tourist visa period. You do not need an International Driving Permit, though it can be a useful backup.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Costa Rica?

Most agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some set the minimum at 25. If you are under 25, expect a daily "young driver" surcharge of $10–$25 USD.

What documents do I need besides my license and passport?

You'll need your valid Chilean passport (with Costa Rican entry stamp) and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit.

Is my Chilean identity card useful for car rental?

Your Chilean ID is your official identification, but for car rental, your passport and driver's license are essential. The agency will use your passport to verify your tourist status.

What if my driver's license expires during my trip?

Your license must be valid for the entire rental period. If it expires mid-trip, you cannot rent or continue driving. Renew your license before your trip if needed.

Can I add an additional driver? What do they need?

Yes, additional drivers are allowed. They must be present at pickup and provide the same documents (valid passport and driver's license). There’s usually an extra daily fee of $5–$15 USD per extra driver.

If I forget my original license at the hotel, will a photo or copy suffice?

No, you must always carry your physical, original driver’s license when driving. Police will not accept copies or photos.

Are there special requirements if my license isn’t in the Latin alphabet?

Not for Chilean licenses, as they are in Spanish with Latin script. For other languages/scripts, you’d need an official International Driving Permit.

Why is the price I see online much lower than what I pay at the counter?

Online prices often exclude Costa Rica’s mandatory insurance and taxes. The final price includes the car rate, mandatory insurance (SLI/TPL), optional insurances, taxes, and extras (GPS, child seat, etc.).

What is SLI/TPL insurance and why is it mandatory?

SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance) or TPL (Third Party Liability) is required by Costa Rican law to cover damages to third parties. No foreign credit card insurance replaces it. Expect to pay $15–$25 USD per day.

What is CDW/LDW insurance? Is it also mandatory?

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) or LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) covers damage to the rental car due to collision or theft. Technically optional, but most rental agencies require you to purchase theirs unless you meet strict criteria.

My credit card (Visa Infinite, Mastercard Black, etc.) offers rental car coverage. Can I skip the agency’s CDW?

Yes, but only if you present an official letter from your bank or card issuer (in English or Spanish) confirming the coverage applies in Costa Rica. Be prepared for a much higher security deposit, often $1,500–$5,000 USD.

What is the security deposit, and how much is it?

It’s a hold on your credit card to cover damages, fines, or the deductible. With full agency insurance, it’s usually $100–$500 USD. With only your credit card insurance, it can be $1,500–$5,000 USD.

Can I pay the rental or deposit in Chilean pesos or with a debit card?

No. The deposit and rental must be paid with a credit card in the main driver’s name. Debit, prepaid cards, or cash are not accepted for the deposit. Some agencies accept debit/cash for the final payment, but a credit card is always required for the deposit.

Should I pay in US dollars (USD) or Costa Rican colones (CRC)?

Car rental rates are almost always quoted and charged in USD. Paying in dollars is simpler and avoids confusion over exchange rates.

What other 'hidden' fees might appear?

Watch for these charges: 13% VAT, airport fee, license plate fee (approx. $1–$2 USD per day), and extras like GPS, child seats, or extra drivers.

How can I get a clear final price from the start?

Use a transparent comparison platform like QEEQ, which shows detailed cost breakdowns. Look for packages that already include the mandatory SLI insurance and always read the fine print on what’s included.

What is 'Zero Deductible' (Full Cover) insurance?

It’s an extra insurance that eliminates the CDW deductible. If you have an accident, you pay nothing out of pocket. It’s the most expensive but provides full peace of mind.

In case of an accident, what does each insurance cover?

SLI/TPL covers third-party injuries/property only. CDW/LDW covers damage to your rental car (with a deductible). Zero Deductible insurance cancels out the deductible completely.

Does insurance cost more for larger vehicles?

Yes. Insuring a large SUV or 4x4 costs more per day than a small sedan. SLI and CDW daily rates increase with vehicle size.

Is it better to prepay online or pay at the destination?

Prepaying the car’s base rate online is often cheaper. Mandatory insurances are usually paid at the counter. Platforms like QEEQ sometimes offer packages with insurance included or clearly break down all costs.

Is there an exit tax when leaving the country?

Yes, a $29 USD exit tax applies, but many airlines already include it in your ticket price. Check with your airline to confirm.

Do Chilean credit cards work smoothly for payments and deposits?

Yes, major Chilean credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex) are widely accepted. Notify your bank before your trip to avoid blocks for unusual transactions and ensure your credit limit covers the deposit.

Do I really need a 4x4 (4WD) in Costa Rica?

It depends on your itinerary. 4x4s are needed for areas like Monteverde, Rincón de la Vieja, Osa Peninsula, or rural roads with river crossings. For main tourist routes and cities, a regular car is sufficient if your hotel is on the main road.

Which is better: a compact SUV (e.g., Suzuki Jimny) or a large SUV (e.g., Toyota Fortuner)?

Compact 4x4s are ideal for couples or solo travelers—cheaper and easier to maneuver, but limited luggage space. Larger SUVs suit families or groups, offering more space and comfort but higher fuel consumption.

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

In high season (December–April, July–August), book 2–3 months ahead, especially for 4x4s. In low season, a few weeks may suffice, but booking early can still mean better prices.

Is it better to book directly with the agency or via a comparison site?

Using a comparison site like QEEQ is advantageous: you can view offers from many agencies, compare final prices, and often access better deals. Their customer support can also clarify insurance questions before arrival.

What should I check when picking up the car?

Do a visual inspection (take photos/videos of any damage), check tire condition (including the spare), confirm tools are present, ensure all documents are in the glovebox, and test lights and wipers.

Is GPS necessary, or is Waze/Google Maps enough?

Waze is the best navigation app for Costa Rica; Google Maps also works well. Save money by not renting a GPS—buy a local SIM card for mobile data instead.

Are automatic and manual transmissions both available?

Yes, both are available, but automatics are more common and sometimes cheaper in SUV categories. If you’re not used to manual in mountainous terrain, choose automatic.

Can I pick up the car in one city and return it in another?

Yes, most major agencies offer one-way rentals, but expect an extra fee of $50–$150 USD depending on the distance.

What if my flight arrives late or leaves very early?

Airport agency offices (SJO and LIR) usually operate 24/7 or have extended hours. Other city locations have shorter hours. Confirm office hours before booking.

Are child seats safe and in good condition?

They are mandatory by law according to the child's size. Quality varies, so inspect before accepting. If concerned, consider bringing your own; many airlines transport child seats for free.

How do Costa Rican roads compare to those in Chile?

Main highways resemble Chilean secondary roads: paved but often single-lane each way. Rural roads can be dirt, bumpy, poorly marked, and even have river crossings. Drive with more caution than you would in Chile.

What are the speed limits?

Highways: 80–100 km/h; main roads: 60–80 km/h; urban/school zones: 25–40 km/h. Strict enforcement with speed traps—fines are hefty.

Are there tolls? How are they paid?

Yes, there are tolls on major highways from San José. There's no electronic tag system; pay in cash (colones or sometimes dollars) or by card. Fees are low, generally less than $2 USD per toll.

Is it safe to drive at night?

It’s best to avoid nighttime driving, especially in rural areas. Roads may lack lighting and signage, and weather can rapidly reduce visibility. Plan to arrive before dark (around 6 PM year-round).

How do gas stations work in Costa Rica?

Stations are full-service only. Tell the attendant "fill with super" or "fill with regular." Pay with card or cash (colones or dollars).

What type of fuel should I use?

Most rentals use gasoline—either Super (95 octane) or Regular (91 octane). Confirm with the rental agency. Diesel is also available for certain vehicles.

What should I do if the traffic police stop me?

Stay calm and polite. Present your passport, driver’s license, and car documents. Never offer a bribe—it is a serious offense. If fined, the agency will deduct it from your deposit or charge your card.

Is theft from vehicles common?

Yes. Never leave valuables visible, even briefly. Use supervised parking whenever possible. At beaches, you can pay a local "car watcher" (cuida-carros) for added peace of mind.

What does a yellow line at the roadside mean?

A yellow curb means "no parking." Violations can result in fines or plate removal, which will cause major problems with returning the car.

Are there any unusual traffic rules compared to Chile?

At unmarked intersections, vehicles on the main avenue have priority. Always come to a complete stop at "Alto" (Stop) signs. Defensive driving is recommended, as locals can be impatient.

Do I need to return the car with a full tank?

Yes, the standard policy is "full-to-full." Return the car with a full tank to avoid being charged for fuel at a much higher rate.

What happens if I return the car dirty?

Normal road dust or some mud is fine. If returned extremely dirty (mud everywhere, sand inside), you may be charged an extra cleaning fee.

What should I do if I have an accident or breakdown?

First, ensure everyone is safe. Call 911 if there are injuries. Do not move the vehicle until the police and insurance inspector arrive. Then, contact your rental agency’s emergency number for guidance.

What if I lose the car keys?

Contact the rental agency immediately. You’ll be responsible for key replacement and any service fees, which insurance usually does not cover.

Can I be fined for crossing a river with the rental car?

Yes. Insurance does NOT cover water damage from river crossings or submersion. If you damage the car this way, you’re fully liable for repairs.

How early should I return the car before my flight?

Allow at least an extra hour beyond your usual travel time to fill the tank, get to the rental office (often off-airport), complete the inspection, and catch the agency shuttle to the terminal.

Any final tips for Chileans renting a car in Costa Rica?

Yes! Embrace the local motto "Pura Vida"—drive calmly, don’t stress, and enjoy your trip. Be cautious with your belongings, drive defensively, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Canada for US Travelers

Traveling from the United States to Canada and planning a road trip? Navigating the car rental process abroad can bring up a series of questions and considerations.

Can Japanese Citizens Drive in Costa Rica?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Polish Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Difference Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations