Skip to main content
Payless Car Rental

Car Rental in Costa Rica at San José & Liberia Airports

Book your next adventure

Pick up your car at San José (SJO) or Liberia (LIR) airport with a team that has earned the trust of thousands of travelers. Rent with the peace of mind only Payless offers.

4.6Rated Excellent from 3,195 Google reviews
Why Payless

Why choose Payless for your rental car

Payless sets a higher standard among car rental companies in Costa Rica, with no hidden fees and the option to add zero-deductible protection for added peace of mind.

Explore our fleet of economy cars, 4x4 SUVs, seven-seat SUVs and vans. With convenient locations near San José Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR), our team is here to help you find the right vehicle for your journey.

Suzuki Jimny parked outside the Payless office in Costa Rica

Ready to hit the road? Your car is waiting at SJO and LIR.

Book online in a few clicks, or visit our airport offices, open daily from 6:00 to 22:00.

Book nowSee locations
Two airports, one team

Our offices at SJO and LIR airports

Land at Juan Santamaría or Daniel Oduber and our team will be waiting for you. Both offices are open every day, so you can start your Costa Rica trip from the airport that best fits your route.

All locations
Before you land

6 things to know before renting a car in Costa Rica

Advice from our team to help you plan a smoother trip.

  • How to choose the best car rental company in Costa Rica

    Look at the total price, not just the daily rate, and check what the coverage includes before you book. A company with an office close to the airport and plenty of recent reviews makes pickup and return much easier. Our coverages page explains each option, so you know exactly what you are paying for.

    See coverage options

  • The best car to rent in Costa Rica

    Start with your route. If you are sticking to paved highways between San José, the central Pacific and the Guanacaste beaches, an economy car or compact SUV is all you need. If your plans include places like Nosara or the Osa Peninsula, go for a 4x4. Then think about luggage, since smaller cars fit fewer suitcases, and a seven-seat SUV or a van keeps a bigger group comfortable.

    Browse our fleet

  • 4x4 rental in Costa Rica

    At Payless you can choose between a compact 4x4 and larger 4x4 SUVs. A compact 4x4 like the Suzuki Jimny is light and narrow, which helps on steep mountain roads, but it fits four people and one large bag. A 4x4 SUV gives a family more room for people and luggage. On unpaved climbs, switch to 4WD before you start going up, not halfway, and take gravel slowly.

    Browse our 4x4s

  • Is it safe to rent a car in Costa Rica?

    Yes, and a few simple habits make it easy. When you stop at a beach, trailhead or viewpoint, take your bags with you instead of leaving them in the car, and use a guarded parking lot when there is one. If anything comes up on the road, our 24/7 roadside assistance is one call away.

    Read our safety tips

  • Liberia or San José, the best airport to fly into

    Pick the airport closest to where you will spend most of your trip. Liberia is about an hour from Tamarindo and Flamingo, while San José is about two and a half hours from La Fortuna and three from Manuel Antonio. The two airports are three to four hours apart by road, so if your route crosses the country, pick up at one and return at the other instead of driving back.

    See both offices

  • Is driving in Costa Rica safe?

    Yes, as long as you give yourself time. The main highways are in good shape, but many routes are winding two-lane roads, so trips take longer than the map suggests. Try to do long drives in the morning, since afternoon rain is common in the green season and many rural roads have no streetlights. Waze works well here for traffic and road closures.

    Read our driving guide
Travel guide

Plan your Costa Rica road trip with our travel guides

Guides from our team on driving in Costa Rica, rental car insurance, real prices and the best beaches near Liberia Airport.

Visit the travel guide
Best Beaches Near Liberia Airport: A Road Trip Guide from LIRDestinationsAug 20, 2026 · 4 min readBest Beaches Near Liberia Airport: A Road Trip Guide from LIRDaniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia is the gateway to Guanacaste — Costa Rica's driest, sunniest province and home to some of the country's most spectacular beaches. With a rental car from Payless at the airport, you can reach world-class surf breaks, calm family coves, and remote nature reserves in under two hours.Read the full guide
How to Drive in Costa Rica: Complete Guide for First-Time VisitorsTravel Tips · Jul 14, 2026 · 6 minHow to Drive in Costa Rica: Complete Guide for First-Time VisitorsEverything you need to know about driving in Costa Rica: road conditions, traffic laws, insurance requirements, and tips for renting a car at SJO or LIR airport.Car Rental in Costa Rica: The Real Price GuideTravel Tips · Apr 22, 2026 · 2 minCar Rental in Costa Rica: The Real Price GuidePlanning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering what you'll actually pay for a rental car? You're not alone. Many travelers arrive expecting one price and leave frustrated by unexpected charges.
Help

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about renting with Payless

What documents do I need to rent a car in Costa Rica?
You need three documents: a valid driver's license from your home country (no international license required if it uses the Roman alphabet), a valid passport, and a credit card in the primary driver's name for the security deposit. Debit cards and cash are not accepted for deposits. The minimum rental age at Payless Car Rental Costa Rica is 21 years. A young driver surcharge applies to drivers aged 21 to 24. The maximum age to rent a vehicle with Payless Car Rental Costa Rica is 75 years. All drivers must meet the applicable license, identification and payment requirements.
How much is the security deposit?
The security deposit ranges from $300 to $3,000 USD depending on the vehicle category and the coverage you select. This applies to all categories, from economy cars and compact sedans to SUVs, 4x4s, pickups and minivans. The exact amount is shown before you confirm your booking. It is a hold (not a charge) on your credit card at pickup and is released within 7 to 15 business days after the vehicle is returned with no damage. With full CDW coverage, the deposit may be reduced.
Can I add an additional driver?
Yes. An additional driver can be added to the contract by presenting their driver's license and passport at pickup. Only drivers listed in the rental agreement are covered by insurance. The additional driver fee is $10 USD per day plus applicable taxes.
Can I book and pay at pickup?
Yes, subject to availability, but it is not recommended. During high season (December–April and July) the fleet sells out weeks in advance. Booking ahead guarantees your preferred vehicle type and often offers better rates. Full payment is generally collected at vehicle pickup.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are free of charge. No-shows or cancellations with less than 24 hours notice may result in loss of deposit or a charge of 1–2 rental days. Always review the specific terms on your reservation confirmation.
Is car rental insurance mandatory in Costa Rica?
Yes. Third-party liability insurance (SLI/TPL) is required by Costa Rican law and cannot be declined. No credit card insurance or personal travel insurance replaces this legal requirement. At Payless Car Rental Costa Rica, the SLI is included in all published rates — there are no surprise charges at pickup.
Does my credit card cover rental car insurance in Costa Rica?
Partially. Premium credit cards (Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum) may cover collision damage (CDW), but no credit card replaces the mandatory SLI required by Costa Rican law. To use your card's CDW coverage, you must present a letter from your bank confirming coverage in Costa Rica. We recommend contacting your card issuer before traveling to confirm the exact terms.
What types of insurance are available?
Costa Rica rental insurance breaks down into three types: (1) SLI/TPL — mandatory, covers damage to third parties; (2) Basic CDW — covers damage to the vehicle with a deductible (usually $500–$1,500); (3) Full CDW (zero deductible) — includes tire and windshield protection and charges no deductible in case of accident. The combination of SLI plus full CDW is the most recommended option for travelers without credit card coverage.
How much does a rental car cost in Costa Rica including insurance?
Total all-in prices vary by season and category. During low season (May–November, except July) an economy car can cost $45–$65 USD/day fully covered; an SUV $80–$110 USD/day. During high season (December–April and July) prices rise 30–50%. Always request the final price with SLI, 13% VAT, and airport fees included before comparing companies.
What do I do if I have an accident?
If you have an accident: (1) Do not move the vehicle; (2) Call 911 to file a police report — this is mandatory for all accidents involving damage; (3) Call Payless Car Rental Costa Rica's emergency number immediately; (4) Photograph all damage and the scene from multiple angles; (5) Do not pay anything to third parties at the scene. A police report is required to activate any insurance coverage. Without it, damages may not be covered even with full CDW.
Do I need a 4x4 in Costa Rica?
For most tourist destinations outside the dry season (December–April), yes. Routes to Monteverde, La Fortuna, Rincon de la Vieja, Tortuguero, the Osa Peninsula, and many coastal towns include gravel sections or shallow crossings. An SUV with good ground clearance (minimum 18 cm) is sufficient for 90% of travelers. A true 4x4 with locking differential is only necessary for extreme off-road routes outside main roads.
Can I drive through rivers with a rental car?
No. All rental agreements in Costa Rica explicitly prohibit driving through rivers, lakes, or bodies of water. Water damage (engine, transmission, bodywork) is not covered by any insurance and will be charged directly to the driver. If your route requires river crossings, contact us — we can advise on alternative routes or the most suitable vehicle type.
What type of fuel do the vehicles use?
Most of our fleet runs on regular gasoline (called 'Super' in Costa Rica). Some premium or hybrid models use Premium fuel. The required fuel type is indicated on the vehicle's dashboard and in the rental contract. Gas prices in Costa Rica are government-regulated and updated every two weeks, averaging $1.20–$1.40 USD per liter. 24-hour gas stations are available near both airports.
Does the car come with GPS?
Most modern vehicles in our fleet include a screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, so you can use Google Maps or Waze from your phone at no extra cost. We recommend downloading Costa Rica maps offline before your trip — data coverage can be weak in rural and mountainous areas. A portable GPS unit is available as an optional accessory for an additional charge.
Can I take the rental car outside of Costa Rica?
No. Rental vehicles cannot leave Costa Rican territory. The rental agreement restricts use exclusively within Costa Rica. Crossing the border in a rental vehicle immediately voids all insurance coverage and may result in serious legal and financial consequences.
How do I get to the office from San Jose Airport (SJO)?
Payless Car Rental operates a complimentary shuttle from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO). After clearing customs, look for a Payless representative in the international arrivals area or call the number on your reservation confirmation. The shuttle ride takes approximately 7 minutes to our office. Service runs during all operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
How do I get to the office from Liberia Airport (LIR)?
Our Liberia location is 4 km from Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR). A representative will be available in the arrivals area to transfer you to the counter. Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. If your flight arrives outside these hours, contact us in advance to arrange extended service.
Can I return the car to a different location than where I picked it up?
Yes. One-way rentals are available subject to availability and a relocation fee. The fee varies depending on the pickup and drop-off cities. Contact us when booking to get the exact charge for your specific route.
What should I check when picking up the vehicle?
Before signing the contract and accepting the keys: (1) Inspect the full exterior and interior with an agent; (2) Photograph or video every existing scratch, dent, or mark, no matter how small; (3) Confirm all damage is noted on the contract before you sign; (4) Verify the fuel level matches what is written in the contract; (5) Test the air conditioning, lights, and tires. You will also receive an emergency kit (triangles, safety vest) — verify it is complete before leaving.
What happens if I need roadside assistance?
Payless Car Rental Costa Rica provides 24/7 roadside assistance. Your rental contract will include the direct emergency number. For a flat tire, dead battery, or any mechanical issue, call immediately. Do not attempt repairs yourself as this may affect your insurance coverage. Always save the emergency number in your phone before leaving the office.

Still have questions?WhatsApp +506 7300-4767Toll free 1-888-383-8919Daily 6:00–22:00

Reviews

What travelers say about Payless

Rated Excellent from 3,195 Google reviews.

Read all reviews

Certifications and memberships

  • Essential Costa Rica country brand
  • Costa Rica Code of Conduct against commercial sexual exploitation in travel and tourism
  • Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel & Tourism Council
  • Official member of the Costa Rican Car Rental Association
Book in a few clicks

Where Will You Drive First?

Join more than 3,000 travelers who have trusted Payless to start their Costa Rica adventure.

Book your car nowTalk to our team
¿Necesitas ayuda? Chatea con nosotros

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, analyze site traffic, and personalize content.