Car rental in Puerto Rico: search for the best deals!

Practical information

Where can you rent a car in Puerto Rico?

The U.S. territory of Puerto Rico, found in the Caribbean, is popular for its beaches, tropical rainforests, and beautiful natural landscapes. Its capital city, San Juan, is also a well-known destination and one of the most convenient places in the country in which to rent a car. A common point of arrival for visitors to the country is Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, at which travelers can rent a car from companies such as Payless Car Rental and Holiday Autos. City center car rentals are also on offer from car rental companies including Thrifty, Sixt and Avis. Within San Juan, public transportation is easy to access and use; across the rest of the island, public transport can be incredibly limited. Therefore, traveling by rental car not only allows flexibility when it comes to travel times, but it may be the only way to travel! Sights such as San Juan's Old San Juan neighborhood, the El Yunque Rainforest, and the beautiful Condado Beach are just a few of the attractions to discover in Puerto Rico.

What are the rules of the road in Puerto Rico?

When it comes to driving in Puerto Rico, there are a few road rules travelers must be aware of before renting a car. In Puerto Rico, drive on the right side of the road; do not use your phone while driving; and be aware you'll need to be at least 23 years old to rent a car. A US driving license is sufficient, while the blood alcohol limit is 80mg/100ml of blood – the same as that in the US. Watch the speed limit, as speed cameras are in use. The speed limit varies depending on the type of road, however is usually around 25 mph in cities, and 55 – 65 mph on highways.

Road trips in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a relatively small country and as such, renting a car will allow visitors to explore much of the island at their own pace. These are some of the most beautiful road trips to take in Puerto Rico, using San Juan as a base.

San Juan to the El Yunque Rainforest

The stunning El Yunque Rainforest is North America's only tropical rainforest, and can be reached in around one hour by car from San Juan on Routes 3 then 191. Upon arrival at the El Yunque Rainforest, found in eastern Puerto Rico, travelers can enjoy hiking, camping and guided tours of the area and its wildlife.

A Road Trip Around Puerto Rico's East Coast

Puerto Rico's East Coast is simply stunning, and best enjoyed by rental car, allowing travelers the ability to see the area at their own pace and stop off as much as possible along the way! From San Juan, head to the El Yunque Rainforest (as described above), making a stop off to enjoy the area's natural beauty. From here, it's on to the relaxing Luquillo Beach to grab a bite from one of the seafront food stalls. Then head to Fajardo, park up, and take the ferry to islands such as Vieques – known for its Instagram famous Bioluminescent Bay, whose waters appear to glow in the dark.

San Juan to Ponce

Located on Puerto Rico's southern coast, the city of Ponce can be accessed in around one and a half hours from San Juan. Visit the Ponce Historic Zone, enjoy a slow walk along the boardwalk of Paseo Tablado La Gauncha, and check out the city's museums, such as the Museo de Arte de Ponce.