Navigating the car rental process at an airport can sometimes feel overwhelming. Especially when you’re eager to start your Puerto Rican adventure right after landing at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience picking up your rental car at San Juan Airport, understanding the renter requirements and payment policies is crucial. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from age restrictions to accepted forms of payment, so you can get behind the wheel and explore San Juan with confidence.
Essential Renter Requirements at San Juan Airport
Before you pick up your keys, it’s important to confirm you meet the basic requirements to rent a car. Rental agencies at San Juan Airport, like most locations, have standard policies to ensure renter eligibility and vehicle security.
Age and Driver’s License
The minimum age to rent a car at San Juan Airport is 21 years old. This is a standard policy across many rental companies. In addition to age, a valid driver’s license is mandatory for all renters and any additional drivers. It’s important to note that learner’s permits or instructional permits are not accepted for car rentals.
For renters aged 21 to 24, an underage surcharge of approximately $25 per day may apply. This age group is also typically restricted to specific vehicle classes, usually ranging from economy to full-size cars, including cargo and minivans, pickup trucks, and compact to standard SUVs with seating for up to five passengers. Luxury or premium vehicle categories might not be available to this age group.
Additional Driver Policy
Most car rental agreements allow for additional drivers, but policies can vary. Typically, the renter’s spouse or domestic partner is permitted as an additional driver at San Juan Airport. However, it’s important to confirm the specific rental agency’s policy as some may have restrictions on who can be added as an additional driver. Ensure any additional drivers also meet the age and driver’s license requirements.
Flexible Payment Options for Your San Juan Car Rental
Understanding the accepted forms of payment is just as vital as meeting the renter requirements. Car rental agencies at San Juan Airport offer a range of payment options for your convenience.
Accepted Payment Methods
Generally, major credit cards are widely accepted for car rentals at San Juan Airport. These typically include:
- VISA®
- MasterCard®
- American Express®
- Discover Network®
Debit cards are also accepted under specific conditions, which we will detail in the next section. It’s worth noting that forms of payment like money orders, prepaid cards, and cash are usually not accepted at the time of rental, especially for the initial deposit or rental charges. However, money orders and prepaid cards might be accepted for final payments when returning the vehicle.
Debit Card Usage at San Juan Airport: Key Considerations
While debit cards are accepted, there are specific conditions, particularly at airport locations like San Juan. Typically, to use a debit card for your car rental at San Juan Airport, you will need to present a ticketed return travel itinerary. This means you must have a confirmed flight ticket showing your return journey.
Furthermore, the name and address on your driver’s license must match your current home address. An exception to the address matching rule is made for active-duty military personnel.
When using a debit card, be aware that the estimated total for your rental will be charged to your account at the time of rental. If any modifications are made to your rental, the total amount may change and will still be charged to the debit card on file. It’s also important to understand that if you incur any additional charges during your rental period, these amounts will also be debited from your account. Always ensure sufficient funds are available in your account to avoid overdraft fees, for which you will be responsible.
Understanding the Deposit Policy for Car Rentals
To cover potential additional costs or liabilities, car rental companies at San Juan Airport usually require a deposit at the time of rental. However, this deposit requirement often depends on whether you are presenting a ticketed return travel itinerary.
Deposit Amounts and When They Apply
If you do not have a ticketed return travel itinerary when renting your car at San Juan Airport, you will be required to provide a deposit. The standard deposit amount is generally $300. However, for certain premium or luxury vehicle classes, the deposit can be higher, potentially around $850. These vehicle classes often include:
- Performance Sport vehicles
- Full Size Luxury SUVs and Electric Luxury SUVs
- Full Size Elite Electric Sedans
- Midsize Sport Luxury Sedans, Full Size Luxury Sedans, and Premium Luxury Sedans
- Electric Luxury Sedans, Premium Luxury SUVs, and Extended Luxury SUVs
- Limo Vans, and Corvettes
The deposit is held and will not be available for your use during the rental period. It will be refunded after you return the vehicle, provided all terms and conditions of the rental agreement are met. Any additional charges incurred during the rental can be deducted from this deposit. If not deducted from the deposit, these charges will be applied to the payment method provided at the rental pickup, unless you specify an alternative accepted payment method.
Insurance Verification for Specific Vehicle Classes
For renters without a ticketed return travel itinerary, there’s an additional requirement concerning insurance, but it applies only to specific, higher-end vehicle classes. If you are renting one of the following vehicle types and do not have a return travel ticket, you will need to provide proof of a transferable auto collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance policy:
- Full Size Luxury Sedan, Premium Luxury Sedan, Midsize Sport Luxury Sedan, Electric Luxury Sedan
- Premium Luxury SUV, Extended Luxury SUV, Electric Luxury SUV
- Limo Van, and Corvette
This insurance verification is to ensure adequate coverage for these more valuable vehicles. For most standard car rentals, this requirement will not apply, but it’s essential to be aware of it if you plan to rent a luxury vehicle without a return flight ticket.
Conclusion: Ready to Rent at San Juan Airport
Renting a car at San Juan Airport offers the freedom to explore Puerto Rico at your own pace. By understanding these renter requirements and payment policies, you can ensure a smooth and efficient start to your trip. Remember to check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen car rental agency when booking, and have all necessary documents ready when you arrive to pick up your vehicle. With the right preparation, you’ll be hitting the road and enjoying the beauty of San Juan in no time.
