Car rental in Puerto Rico: All you need to know

An unincorporated territory of the United States, Puerto Rico has a flavor and culture all its own. Officially known as The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the territory is the smallest of the Greater Antilles islands. Rent a car in Puerto Rico and cruise from sand to shore effortlessly during your trip in paradise.

How can I get a cheap car rental in Puerto Rico?

Here are our suggestions to help you find the best deal on your rental:

• Compare several different packages and rates;
• Don't pick up your vehicle from the airport;
• Think about how much fuel and mileage in advance;
• Reserve your car as early as you can;
• Keep additional drivers off the policy if you can.

What do I have to keep in mind when I rent a vehicle in Puerto Rico?

Just like in the US, traffic moves on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are also written in miles, though distances are often displayed in kilometers. Another factor to remember when you rent here is that cross-border rentals are usually not allowed.

What Puerto Rico car rental companies are good?

Along with the bigger companies like Sixt, Hertz, and Avis, check out the local ones around the airport, and read some reviews to help you choose.

What kind of car rental should I get?

This depends on your vacation plans and who you're traveling with. Do you simply need a compact vehicle to get you from Car rental in San Juan AirportSan Juan International airport to the hotel and the beach, or are you going to be taking the whole family to see the attractions of the island, in which case you might want a bigger rental car with a little more leg room and luggage space. Take your pick!

How old do I have to be to rent a vehicle in Puerto Rico?

The minimum age for renting a car is 21 years (25 years for larger vehicles) and the driver must have been in possession of a driver's license for 1 year. The maximum age is 75 years, and a young driver surcharge for drivers under 25 years applies to all car types.

Do I need insurance when renting a car in Puerto Rico?

Yes. US citizens can buy insurance from CarRentals.com or the rental car supplier.

Can I book with unlimited mileage?

Usually, yes. In fact, many suppliers offer unlimited miles, which is a safe way to avoid clocking up a heap of miles and having to pay extra for them at the end of your car rental period.

Can I use a debit card for a hire car?

No, most providers do not accept debit cards. Nor do they accept prepaid cards or cash. Have a credit card ready.

Is it possible to hire a car one-way in Puerto Rico?

One-way car rentals are not usually allowed internationally, but might be available with some companies. An extra fee usually applies, however, so check with the supplier when booking what their policy is for different car rental locations.

Which sights and/or cities are must-sees in Puerto Rico?

Old San Juan is a must-visit if you want to see the real history of the island. Visit the fortresses, go souvenir shopping, or stroll the streets to simply take in the atmosphere of this old city. Be your own tour guide as you drive around the capital city of Car rental in San JuanSan Juan, drive to the El Yunque National Forest to do some serious hiking, and be sure to transport yourself to the Bioluminescent Bay for some nighttime kayaking. Wherever your journeys in the “rich port” take you, your car rental in Puerto Rico is the best way to take in all the action.

What is a good road trip in Puerto Rico?

Given its size, you can easily drive to either side of the island to bathe in the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. If you're flying to the main airport, SJU, make sure you drive to see the Fajardo Lighthouse in the San Juan Nature Reserve first. Then, head to Ponce on the south coast for culture, history, and good food. Surfing is big in Puerto Rico, especially on the beaches in Rincon. Once you've surfed the waves, continue back towards San Juan Airport with a stop in Aguadilla, Camuy, and Arecibo, which are all on the way around this loop of the island.

Traffic tips to keep you safe

Don't be afraid to honk your horn to alert other drivers on your presence, especially on countryside roads that can be bendy. You might come across animals on these roads, so drive carefully. Learn a few basic phrases before your trip. Despacio (slow), Ceda el paso (give way), and Prohibido aparcar (No parking) often come in handy.

A rental car is the best way to see this beautiful destination without using all your vacation spending money. Don’t worry about surfing through high prices and book your Puerto Rico Island car here on CarRentals.com today.