Belize Car Rental Requirements: What You Need To Know

Renting a car in Belize is a relatively simple process. You will need a few things, including a valid credit card (not a debit card), a valid driver's license from your home country, and a passport. It is also important to meet the minimum age requirement, which varies between hire providers—some require renters to be 23 or 25 years old, while others allow those 21 and older to rent with an additional security deposit.

In terms of cost, renting a car in Belize can be a little pricey, but it is still generally cheaper than taking private shuttles or domestic flights to get around the country. The average daily rate for renting a car in Belize ranges from $60 per day for an economy car to $120 per day for a full-size 4x4 SUV. These prices do not include any additional insurance or extras.

When renting a car in Belize, it is also important to consider the type of vehicle you will need. While some main roads in Belize are paved, there are also many unpaved roads and dirt roads, especially when travelling to popular tourist sites. A 4x4 vehicle is often recommended and may be required by rental companies for driving on certain roads.

Overall, renting a car in Belize can be a great way to explore the country and experience its breathtaking scenery and attractions.

Requirements: passport, driver's license, credit card

If you're planning a trip to Belize and want to rent a car, there are a few key requirements you'll need to keep in mind. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

Passport:

Having a valid passport is essential for entering Belize. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and will remain valid for at least 30 days after your arrival in the country. This is a standard requirement for international travel and is necessary for clearing immigration upon arrival.

Driver's License:

When it comes to driving in Belize, you won't need an international driver's license. Your original, valid driver's license from your home country will suffice. This means that if you're coming from the US, Canada, or any other country with a recognized driver's license, you won't need any additional documentation to operate a vehicle in Belize. Keep in mind that the minimum age to rent a car in Belize is typically 21 or 23 years old, with some companies requiring drivers to be 25.

Credit Card:

A credit card is usually required for the deposit when renting a car in Belize. Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted. This is an important part of the rental process, as it guarantees your commitment to the rental company and covers any potential costs incurred during your trip.

In addition to these requirements, it's worth noting that liability insurance is mandatory in Belize and is typically included in the rental rate. Additionally, while an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not necessary, having one can be helpful in certain situations.

By ensuring you have these essential requirements—passport, driver's license, and credit card—you'll be well on your way to exploring Belize with the freedom and flexibility of a rental car.

Insurance: mandatory liability insurance, optional collision waiver

When renting a car in Belize, you will need mandatory liability insurance. This is already included in the rate of the rental car in most cases, but some companies may add it on separately. This is the most basic insurance, which only covers damage to the car in the event of a collision with another vehicle.

Then there's additional car rental insurance coverage, which includes collision waiver (CDW) insurance. The add-on collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance is largely the same as the mandatory liability insurance. However, there may be different deductibles or certain situations that are covered by CDW insurance that might make it worth the extra money for peace of mind. For example, driving on unpaved roads may be covered by CDW insurance but not by mandatory liability insurance. Do some research and know what the liability policy covers, and whether your credit card offers CDW insurance as a benefit.

If you are planning to drive on unpaved roads, it is highly recommended that you purchase CDW insurance. In Belize, many popular tourist sites require driving on unpaved roads, and rental companies may void your insurance if you drive on unpaved roads without CDW insurance. Additionally, if you are renting a car to drive to Guatemala, keep in mind that your Belize auto liability insurance does not provide coverage outside of the country.

Vehicle type: 4x4 for unpaved roads

When renting a car in Belize, it's important to consider the road conditions you'll encounter during your trip. While some roads in Belize have been improved in recent years, others remain unpaved and full of potholes. If you're planning to drive on unpaved roads or venture off the beaten path, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended.

Belize has a variety of road conditions, ranging from well-maintained highways to bumpy dirt roads. Major highways, such as the Northern Highway, Western Highway, and Hummingbird Highway, are generally in good condition and suitable for standard vehicles. However, even on these roads, you may encounter sections of gravel or limestone, as well as speed bumps and potholes.

On the other hand, many secondary roads and rural routes in Belize are unpaved and can be quite challenging to navigate. The Old Northern Highway, for example, has sections that are narrow and full of potholes. The Mountain Pine Ridge Road to Caracol is another route that is mostly unpaved and can be rough, especially after heavy rains.

If you're planning to explore areas off the main highways or visit remote tourist sites, a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended. A 4x4 will provide a smoother ride on washboard roads and offer higher clearance for navigating potholes and uneven surfaces. Additionally, some rental companies may prohibit driving on unpaved roads unless you're renting a 4x4.

Keep in mind that renting a 4x4 will likely increase your rental costs. The daily rates for a full-size 4x4 SUV can be up to $120 per day. However, the extra cost may be worth it for the added peace of mind and the ability to explore Belize's diverse terrain with greater ease.

When renting a car in Belize, be sure to ask the rental company about the road conditions you're likely to encounter and whether a 4x4 is recommended for your itinerary. It's also essential to check the vehicle's tires and spare tire, as well as the jack, to ensure you're prepared for any road conditions you may encounter.

Cost: $60-$120 per day

Renting a car in Belize is a little pricey, with the average daily rate for renting a car in 2023 costing around $60 per day for an economy car and up to $120 per day for a full-size 4x4 SUV. These prices are only a ballpark daily rate for the car and don't include any extras or added insurance.

The cheapest time to rent a car in Belize is during the low season, which runs from May to November. The most expensive time to rent a car is during the high season, which runs from December to April. The prices around Christmas and New Year's will be the highest.

If you're renting a car at the airport, it will be more expensive due to airport taxes and fees. It's recommended to book from a local off-site agency for the best prices.

There are a few additional costs to keep in mind when renting a car in Belize, such as tolls, GPS costs, extra driver fees, and insurance. The cost of gas in Belize is also much higher than in other Central American countries, with regular unleaded fuel costing close to $6 a gallon.

When renting a car in Belize, it's important to spend the extra money on a 4WD vehicle. Many of the best tourist sites require driving on unpaved roads, and most rental companies prohibit driving on these roads unless you have a 4x4. Additionally, the roads in Belize are not well-maintained, so having the extra stability and traction of an SUV can be a necessity.

Age: minimum 21, maximum 75

Age Requirements for Renting a Car in Belize

The age requirements to rent a car in Belize vary by rental company, with some companies setting the minimum age at 23 and others at 25. The maximum age across all companies is 75.

Minimum Age of 21

Some companies allow drivers as young as 21 to rent a car, but this comes with additional costs. Crystal Auto Rental and Barefoot Services Belize are two companies that allow 21-year-olds to rent a car, but they require double the standard security deposit.

Minimum Age of 23

AQ Belize Car Rental considers anyone 23 and under to be underage and requires additional ID, insurance, and a cash deposit.

Minimum Age of 25

Many companies, including Hertz Rent-A-Car Belize, Budget, Alamo Belize, and Car One Rental, require renters to be at least 25 years old. These companies often charge an additional daily fee for renters under 25.

Maximum Age of 75

The maximum age to rent a car in Belize is 75 years old, as set by rental companies.

Frequently asked questions