FAQs

You must present a valid physical driver’s license in good condition (copies or digital versions are not accepted), a passport with entry stamp (for foreign renters), and a physical credit card with embossed numbers in the renter’s name. The credit card holder must be present at pickup. All documents must be valid at the time of vehicle collection.

Renters must be between 25 and 80 years old to rent without additional charges. Drivers aged 21 to 24 may rent the vehicle by paying a young driver surcharge of $50 plus applicable taxes per rental agreement. Drivers under 21 years of age are not permitted to rent.

No. The reservation must be made in the name of the credit card holder. The credit card holder must present the card at the time of vehicle pickup and will be responsible for the rental agreement. The driver may be different from the cardholder, provided they are listed on the rental agreement and meet all rental requirements.

Yes. Additional drivers are permitted for a fee of $4.99 plus applicable taxes per day. The additional driver must be present at pickup, be registered in the rental agreement, and meet all rental requirements, including age and documentation.

We accept American Express, Diners Club, JCB, MasterCard, and Visa credit cards. The card must be physical, valid, and in the renter’s name. Debit cards, prepaid cards, and digital or virtual cards (including mobile wallets) are not accepted.

Yes. A security deposit is required at the time of pickup and will be held as a preauthorization on the renter’s credit card. The amount depends on the vehicle category, the country of issuance of the card, and the selected coverages. The deposit will be released after the vehicle is returned, subject to the issuing bank’s processing times.

No. Taking the vehicle outside the country is strictly prohibited under the rental agreement and insurance coverage. Violating this policy may result in penalties and loss of coverage.

Yes. One-way rentals are available for an additional fee. This service is subject to availability and must be arranged in advance.

The driver is responsible for all toll charges during the rental period. Most toll roads in Costa Rica require cash payment; only Route 27 accepts credit cards. We recommend carrying local currency to avoid delays.

If the vehicle is returned after the scheduled return time without a prior extension, a late return penalty of $150 per day will apply. Please contact us in advance if you need to extend your rental to avoid additional charges.

If the vehicle is returned excessively dirty, a cleaning fee of $150 will apply. If the vehicle smells of cigarette smoke, a $250 smoking fee will apply. Smoking inside the vehicle is strictly prohibited.

The vehicle must be returned with a full tank of fuel. If it is returned with less fuel, refueling charges will apply. Alternatively, you may purchase prepaid fuel at the time of pickup and return the vehicle without refueling.

Yes. You may request to add an additional driver by contacting us at reserve@budget.co.cr. The additional driver must meet all rental requirements and may need to present valid documents in person. Approval is required before the driver is authorized to operate the vehicle. Additional fees apply.

To request a refund, please email reserve@budget.co.cr or call +506 2436 2000. You will be asked to provide your reservation number and payment details for verification purposes. Refunds are typically processed within 5–10 business days, depending on your bank.

- Cancellation more than 24 hours before the scheduled pickup time: $50 cancellation fee applies.

- Cancellation within 24 hours of pickup: $100 cancellation fee applies.

- No-show or failure to present required documents at pickup: no refund.

- Early return or late pickup: unused rental days are non-refundable.

- Direct reservations: Modifications are allowed, subject to availability. Any rate difference will be charged or refunded accordingly.

- Third-party reservations: Changes must be requested directly through the travel agency or booking platform used to make the reservation.

Yes. To request an extension, please email reserve@budget.co.cr before your scheduled return time. Extensions are subject to availability and approval, and additional charges may apply. The maximum rental period allowed per contract is one month.

1. Call 911 to report the accident and obtain a police report.

2. Contact Quálitas at +506 2210 2490 so an insurance adjuster can be dispatched to the scene.

3. Do not move the vehicle unless instructed by authorities.

4. Provide both reports when returning the vehicle.

SLI: Supplemental Liability Insurance covering damages to third parties

CDW: Covers damage to the rental vehicle with a deductible

LDW: Covers damage to the rental vehicle with no deductible

PAE: Personal accident insurance for driver and passengers

RSN: 24/7 roadside assistance service

WTC: Coverage for windshield, tires, and windows

Yes. Optional equipment such as Wi-Fi routers, child seats, and other accessories can be rented for an additional fee, subject to availability. Availability may be limited, so we recommend requesting these items when making your reservation.