Car Rental at San José Airport (SJO)

To rent a car in San Jose, make sure to bring the following documents:

• A valid passport.

• A valid driver’s license with at least 12 months of driving experience. In the case of a digital driver’s license, the customer must present the official version (PDF, image, or link) at the counter, including a code or QR code that allows its authenticity to be verified

• A credit card in the name of the main driver for the security deposit.

• The minimum age to rent a car is 18 years, with at least one year of driving experience.

• Some vehicle categories require the driver to be at least 21 years old with two years of driving experience.

• Drivers under 26 years old must purchase a Young Driver Insurance.

• Drivers over 75 years old are required to purchase Senior Driver Insurance.

Most travelers prefer picking up their rental car directly at San José Airport (SJO) because it is faster and more convenient after landing.

Renting at the airport allows you to start your Costa Rica road trip immediately, avoid organizing extra transportation and access a wider selection of SUVs and 4x4 vehicles.

Some travelers staying several days in downtown San José may prefer waiting before renting a car, especially if they do not plan to drive immediately after arrival.

A security deposit is required to rent a car in San Jose, Costa Rica. The amount depends on the vehicle category:

• Economy Cars: From $800 USD

• SUVs & 4x4s: From $1,200 USD

• Luxury Cars: From $1,800 USD

• Family Cars: From $1,000 USD

The deposit is held on your credit card but not charged. Ensure your credit card has sufficient funds. If needed, you can reduce the deposit amount by purchasing our Full or Partial Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which also limits your financial liability in case of an accident.

Yes, the Jumbo Car shuttle is completely free. Your driver will meet you outside the arrivals hall and take you to our branch (only 400 meters away) in under two minutes.

Booking early is usually the best way to secure lower rental prices, especially during the high season.

Compact cars are often the most affordable option around San José, while SUVs and 4x4 vehicles are recommended for longer road trips and mountain regions.

Comparing insurance options before arrival can also help you better understand the total rental cost and avoid unexpected charges at pickup.

While additional insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended due to high liability fees in case of an accident. If damage occurs, extra coverage can save you from unexpected costs.

Besides the mandatory Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) included in your rental, you can opt for:

• Extended Liability Insurance: Covers third-party damages up to $500,000 USD.

• Glass & Tire Protection: Covers damages to windows, mirrors, and tires.

All mandatory airport taxes are included in your online quote. No hidden fees — what you see when booking is exactly what you pay at pick-up.

Rental car prices in Costa Rica mainly depend on:

• the travel season,

• vehicle category,

• rental duration,

• and insurance coverage selected.

Prices are usually higher between December and April, especially for SUVs, 4x4 vehicles and family cars.

Insurance options can also significantly affect the final price, which is why comparing coverage before booking is important.

Yes. If your flight lands late, just share your flight number when booking, our team tracks arrivals and can wait or arrange an after-hours pick-up.

Yes. Jumbo Car offers one-way drop-off service in many tourist destinations across Costa Rica, on request.

• Do not move your vehicle unless necessary for safety.

• Stay in a safe location but keep the vehicle as it is.

• Call Jumbo Car immediately with your location and accident details.

• We will contact the police, insurance company, and emergency services if needed.

If no third party is involved, you should still report the damage to us so we can handle the insurance claim.

Absolutely. Just share your flight number when booking, our team tracks arrivals in real time and adjusts the pick-up accordingly, even late at night.

On average, 15-20 minutes. During peak hours (5-9 p.m.), it may take slightly longer, but our proximity to the terminal makes the process faster than most on-site counters.

Not everywhere, but a 4×4 is strongly recommended for Monteverde, Nicoya, rural areas and the rainy season.

Booking early is recommended during Costa Rica’s high season, especially between December and April when SUVs and 4x4 vehicles can sell out quickly.

During the green season (May to November), prices and availability are usually more flexible, although 4x4 vehicles remain popular for road trips outside the Central Valley.