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Car rental San José Airport, Costa Rica

Are you looking for car rental in San José, Costa Rica? You are in the right place! Green Motion offers top quality and eco-friendly rental cars in San José, at Alajuela Airport.

We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology. We have a wide range of rental cars from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give you the opportunity to reduce your CO2 emissions.

San José is the vibrant capital and largest city of Costa Rica, known for its rich cultural scene, including museums, historic theaters, and bustling markets. Nestled in the Central Valley, it serves as a gateway to the country's renowned natural parks and biodiversity.

Check out our rental car offers and rent a car – today!

Tips for renting a car in San José, Costa Rica

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Why choose Green Motion for car rental?

Our pricing is transparent

With Green Motion, you always easily see the total final price. Car rental insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand - by booking with us, you always get the right insurance easily.

Get your car with ease

Our car rental points are located within easy distances from central locations - near airports and train stations, as well as in the heart of cities.

We are eco-friendly

We strive to minimize our environmental impact. We invest in, among other things, biodegradable chemicals and less water-consuming methods to clean our cars, such as steam cleaning.

We are always happy to help

You can reach us by phone from 9 am to 5 pm and at other times by email, [email protected].

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Good to know about car rental in San José, Costa Rica


Once you have landed in San José and picked up your rental car from the designated office at Alajuela Airport or downtown, we wish you a safe and delightful journey.

For those navigating San José's roads for the first time, take a moment to get acquainted with the vehicle, understand Costa Rica's traffic regulations, and plan your routes.

In Costa Rica driving is on the right-hand side. A valid driving license from your home country is required, and depending on your country of origin, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

San José is known for its busy traffic conditions, especially during peak times, and the rainy season can further complicate driving conditions due to heavy rainfall. Additionally, while exploring rural areas outside of San José, roads may be less maintained, and encountering cyclists and slower vehicles is common, thus requiring caution.

The speed limits in Costa Rica are generally 40 km/h in urban areas, 60 km/h on secondary roads, and 80-100 km/h on highways, subject to change based on road conditions and signage.

Fuel stations are readily available in the city and along major highways, but it's wise to monitor your fuel level when traveling to more remote areas of the country.

If you need help while in San José, don't hesitate to contact our office. In an emergency, the national emergency number is 911.

Useful Information about renting a car in San José, Costa Rica

Where do you pick up your car?

Green Motion San Jose Airport is based outside the Terminal at Plaza Mango, Local LC-103, Radial Francisco J. Orlich.

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Nearest gas station

The nearest gas station is Estación de Servicio Pacific.

Nearest train station

The Alajuela Train Station is located approximately 2.4 km (about 1.5 miles) from the San José Alajuela Airport.

Nearest bus station

TUASA buses operate from the Central de Autobuses del Norte and have a stop at Parada Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría, which is the bus stop used for the airport.

Local currency

Costa Rican colón

Average temperatures

22°C (71°F) - 25°C (76°F)

FAQ car rental in San Jose, Costa Rica

How much does it cost to rent a car in San José, Costa Rica?

The cost to rent a car in San José, Costa Rica, can vary widely depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, time of year, and insurance options. On average, prices can range from $30 to $100 per day.

Can I drive a rented car from San José to other parts of Costa Rica?

Yes, you can drive across Costa Rica, but be aware of varying road conditions and driving practices. Some remote areas may require a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season, due to unpaved roads and river crossings.

Are there any specific driving rules I should be aware of in Costa Rica?

Costa Rican traffic laws include mandatory seatbelt use for all passengers, prohibition of using a mobile phone while driving (except for hands-free systems), and strict drink-driving penalties. Speed limits and traffic signs may differ from those in your home country, so it's important to familiarize yourself with local driving regulations.

Do I need a car in San Jose, Costa Rica?

If you intend to explore more remote areas or prefer the flexibility to comfortably travel at your own pace, renting a car is a must! If you're staying within the city and plan to visit nearby attractions, public transportation and taxis might suffice.

Can I rent a car at the San Jose Downtown?

Yes! We have another location on San José Downtown.