Renting a car in Puerto Rico is one of the best ways to explore the island. Public transportation is limited in many areas, and ride-sharing services may not be available once you leave major cities. When you rent a car in Puerto Rico, you can travel on your own schedule, visit beaches, mountains, and historic sites. In this guide, you will learn how to identify, prevent, and manage additional fees in Puerto Rico car rentals.
Here are seven effective ways to avoid extra charges on car rentals in Puerto Rico. These are based on rental policies and common fee structures.
The standard minimum age to rent a car in Puerto Rico is 25. This age group is considered low-risk, so most rental companies do not apply extra fees. However, renters aged 21 to 24 may still rent a car if they meet the licence and payment requirements. These younger renters must prepare for surcharges. These fees are added daily and apply throughout the rental period. Even though you are legally allowed to drive, rental companies apply this surcharge due to the higher insurance risk. Renting at 25 or above is the best way to save on car rentals in Puerto Rico.
Furthermore, renters under 25 have limited choices on the type of vehicle they can choose. Luxury cars, large SUVs, and speciality models are usually unavailable. Choose a standard or midsize car if you are a young driver. These vehicles come with lower rental costs, reduced insurance rates, and fewer age restrictions.
Hidden costs often appear in insurance and damage protection when you rent a car in Puerto Rico. Even though insurance is a part of your rental agreement, you might already have it through your personal car insurance or travel credit card. A lot of renters get insurance because they're worried about being responsible, but rental companies often push add-ons that aren't necessary.
Rental companies offer Damage Waiver (DW) as an optional form of protection. It pays for damage to the rental car, including towing, storage, loss of use, and administrative fees. This coverage is not required by law and is not insurance. You might not need this add-on if you already have coverage through your credit card or personal car insurance. Accepting DW can add between $21.99 and $25.99 to your total cost daily, depending on the type of vehicle you rent.
Many travellers renting cars don't know their current insurance might cover them. Many travel credit cards include primary rental coverage, which protects you from damage caused by a collision without having to file a claim with your insurance. However, coverage doesn't apply automatically. You must pay with an accepted credit card and decline the rental company's insurance. Also, check if your policy covers loss of use because rental companies often need this if the car is damaged and can't be rented out to others.
Most rental companies will ask you to return the car with the same fuel level it had when you picked it up. If you return it with less fuel, they will refill it for you at a much higher rate. There are two main types of fuel policies. A full-to-full policy requires you to return the car with a full tank. This is usually the best option because you only pay for the fuel you use. Always refuel the vehicle shortly before returning it. Keep your fuel receipt in case you need to show proof. Some stations near airports may charge slightly more, but it is still much cheaper than paying the rental company’s refuelling rate. The other option is prepaid fuel, where you pay in advance for a full tank, regardless of how much you use. Prepaid fuel may seem convenient, but unused fuel will not be refunded.
Most rental cars in Puerto Rico have a built-in toll transponder near the front windshield. This allows you to pass through cashless toll lanes without stopping. While this can be convenient, using the transponder automatically enrolls you in the rental company’s toll program. This means you will be billed not only for the toll but also for daily service fees. Sometimes, you may be charged daily even if you do not use any toll roads if you opt into an unlimited toll program. There are ways to reduce or eliminate toll-related fees. One option is to bring your own toll transponder, if it is compatible with Puerto Rico toll systems. You can also pay tolls in cash or use your navigation system to avoid toll roads entirely.
Many travellers assume multiple people can drive the rental car without penalty, but this is not the case. These fees are not hidden but often overlooked when making a reservation. Any additional driver must be registered at the time of rental. Only people listed on the agreement are legally allowed to drive the car. Most of the time, you must pay an extra fee for each extra driver daily. If you don't register an extra driver, you may have to pay more, and your insurance may not cover you.
Additional drivers must be at least as old as the main renter. If an extra driver is under 25, there will be a fee for young drivers. Some rentals come with mileage restrictions. You will pay for the extra mile driven if you exceed the allowed mileage. Plan your route carefully to stay within the limit.
The return process is one of the most important parts of renting. Many travellers are shocked by extra fees after drop-off because they don't read the return conditions. To avoid additional fees on car rentals in Puerto Rico, you must return the car on time, with the right amount of gas, and without any damage.
Rental agreements clearly state when the vehicle needs to be returned. If you return the car late, even by one hour, you may have to pay an extra day's rent or hourly fines. Some contracts don't allow grace periods, meaning fees start right after your scheduled return time. If you think your rental will be late, extend it instead of risking automatic fines. Check the car for any new scratches, dents, or damage before you leave the return area. Take pictures or video to avoid being blamed for pre-existing issues.
Many extra fees come up when you book, not when you travel. The price of a rental car depends on demand, car type, and insurance. Prices and extra fees go up when demand goes up. When you book ahead, you have more options and time to read the terms and conditions carefully. The type of vehicle you choose determines the cost. Renting, filling up, and putting down a security deposit on a bigger car or SUV usually costs more. Usually, a midsize or compact vehicle gets better gas mileage and costs less daily.
Follow these tips to stay in full control of your rental experience. You now know how to plan ahead, identify optional fees, read terms carefully, and take practical steps to save on car rentals in Puerto Rico. To make your journey even easier, rent a car in Puerto Rico with Final Rentals. Choose pickup locations at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport or Rafael Hernández Airport, select from a wide range of well-maintained vehicles, and complete your booking in minutes. We offer unlimited mileage, insurance, and no hidden fees so you don’t have to worry about surprise costs. For extra convenience, you can also download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
