To rent a 4x4 with 4x4 Rent a Car in Costa Rica you need a valid driver's license, your passport and a major credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age is 21: drivers aged 25 or over rent at the standard rate, and drivers aged 21 to 24 pay a surcharge. The first additional driver is free. Here is everything to have ready, from the quote request to pick-up.
Documents you need at pick-up
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver's license | Valid and current, in the driver's name |
| Passport | The driver's passport |
| Credit card | A major credit card in the driver's name, used for the security deposit |
| Age | Minimum 21. From 25 at the standard rate; 21 to 24 with a surcharge from $13/day |
| Years with a license | No minimum required |
| Additional driver | The first additional driver is free |
Security deposit
A deposit from $500 is held on the driver's credit card during the rental, to cover incidental charges and damages. If you want to use a debit card, contact us before you book and we will tell you the options. Full details on our insurance and deposit page.
Rental conditions
- Rental days: charged per 24-hour period from your pick-up time. Extra hours beyond a full period are charged.
- Insurance: the mandatory basic insurance is included in every rate, from $35/day. Full coverage with zero deductible is optional, from $17/day.
- Price: your written quote is the final price you pay, with no hidden fees.
- Returns: return the car where you picked it up or at another of our pick-up points. Returns at the Nicaragua or Panama border are possible, with the cost on request.
- Long rentals: the same conditions apply, with a discount that grows with the length of the rental. See long-term rental.
What to include in your quote request
- Pick-up place, date and time (for an airport, your flight's arrival time).
- Return place, date and time.
- The type of 4x4 and the number of passengers.
- Your name, email and WhatsApp number, so we can send your quote.
- Anything else: an additional driver, child seats, a driver under 25, a border return.
A person from our local team replies with a written quote. You confirm only if it suits you.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Costa Rica with you?
21. Drivers aged 25 or over rent at the standard rate, and drivers aged 21 to 24 pay a surcharge from $13/day. There is no minimum number of years with a license.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, a major credit card in the driver's name, for the security deposit from $500. For a debit card, contact us before booking.
Can I drive in Costa Rica with my license from home?
Yes. Since December 2024 (Ley 10591), a valid license from your country lets you drive for as long as your legal stay in Costa Rica. Bring it with your passport. More in our guide to driving with a foreign license.
Can someone else drive the car?
Yes. The first additional driver is free. Add their name to your quote request.