Renting a car in Aruba is a convenient and popular option for visitors looking to explore the island at their own pace. To understand the ins and outs of car rentals in Aruba take a look at the below information. If you still have questions – let us know!

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How to Rent a Car in Aruba

Renting a car in Aruba is a popular and convenient way to explore Aruba’s attractions at your own pace. This is particularly true due to the island’s compact size, which means you can visit well-known landmarks and hidden gems all around the island each day – no matter where you’re staying in Aruba!

Due to the limited availability of rental cars, especially during peak tourist seasons, booking online in advance is highly recommended. This will help you secure the vehicle type that suits your needs and allow you to lock in more favorable rates.

It will also save you time at the rental desk and give you peace of mind as you’ll have a reliable mode of transportation ready for your Aruban adventure.

Aruba Rental Car Requirements

Renting a vehicle in Aruba is pretty straight forward. There are only a few things you’ll need to validate your reservation and pick up your car.

• Valid Driver’s License: Ensure that your driver’s license is valid and recognized in Aruba. International visitors typically do not need an Aruban driver’s license or International Driving Permit for short-term stays. Some agencies may also require that you have had a valid license for at least two years prior to rental.

• Age Restrictions: Some rental companies may impose age restrictions. Drivers under 21 or between 21 – 25 may face additional challenges or fees when renting a car. Some companies may also limit ages to a maximum age of 65 – 70. If you’re in those age ranges, pay close attention to your booking details!

To ensure you don’t miss anything that could invalidate your reservation, I highly recommend reading your car rental agencies’ agreement to verify any specific requirements. After all, they have final say on if you can rent the car from them or not!

When to Book a Rental Car for Aruba

The ideal timeframe for booking a rental car in Aruba depends on factors such as the time of year, local events, and the overall demand for rental vehicles in Aruba.

While I would always recommend booking your car as soon as you book your flight to Aruba, especially since many car rentals have free cancellation, here are some ideas of when to book for each season.

• High Season (December to April): Aruba experiences its peak tourist season during the winter months. If you plan to visit during this period, book your rental car several weeks or even months in advance, especially if you want to secure a specific vehicle type or take advantage of lower rates.

• Shoulder Seasons (May to August, November): During the shoulder seasons in Aruba, demand for rental cars may be slightly lower. Booking a few weeks ahead is still best practice to ensure availability and competitive prices.

• Low Season (September to October): This period typically sees a decrease in tourism. While you may find more last-minute availability, booking in advance can still offer benefits in terms of securing preferred vehicle models and avoiding potential price increases.

• Special Events or Holidays: If your visit coincides with special events, holidays, or local festivals, you’ll need to book well in advance as demand for Aruba’s rental cars may surge during these times.

• Last-Minute Considerations: If your travel plans are flexible, you may find last-minute deals, especially during the low season. However, this approach might limit your choices, and availability is not guaranteed. If you can’t get a rental car in Aruba, you can rely on taxis, tours, and buses to get around.

The Cost of Renting a Car in Aruba

Booking a car in advance will help you secure the best rate. Typically, you can find car rentals for a week starting around $200. To find the best rate, use aggregator services like Discovercars.com. They’ll search all the providers on the island to give you the best options.

While the cost will vary company to company, some key things influence the cost of a rental car in Aruba:

• Demand during your travel time: Peak travel seasons may see cost increases.

• Type of car: Jeeps and 4WD vehicles are typically more expensive.

• Duration of rental: Your cost per day will often decrease for longer rental periods.

• Extras: You may be able to rent children’s car seats, roof racks, and GPS systems for an extra fee. Ask your car company directly. Otherwise, you may want to bring them from home.

• Car insurance: Insurance is recommended but will increase the cost of your rental.

• Deposits: Most car rental agencies require a deposit on an authorized credit card. This will be refunded upon return of the car in the same condition you picked it up.

Where to Rent a Car in Aruba

You’ll find car rental companies at the Aruba airport as well as around the island. Many rental companies actually offer you the option of being picked up at the airport, cruise port, or your hotel. This helps remove the barrier of where to rent a car from in Aruba. Just ask before you book!

As for the types of rental car companies in Aruba, there are two different types to look at:

1. International car rental agencies in Aruba: These are the brands you likely have at home, such as Ace Rent a Car, Avis Car Rental, Budget Car Rental, Sixt, and Thrifty Car Rental. You generally know what to expect and may have a loyalty program with one of them.

2. Local car rental companies in Aruba: There are also many local car rental companies to choose from for those looking to support local. Some of the popular ones are Sunset Car Rental, Smart Rent a Car, Yess Car Rental, Wheels2Go, Tropic Car Rental, Jay’s Car Rental, More4Less, RealDeal Car Rental Aruba, Drive4Cheap, and TopDrive.

With so many car rental companies to choose from, do your homework. Before booking, check their rates, reviews, and what they include in their rates to avoid extra fees.

Car Rental at Aruba Airport

If having your rental car company at the Aruba airport is important to you, don’t worry – there are a number of companies for you to choose from. As you arrive at Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport these rental companies are located directly in front of the arrivals terminal: AMIGO, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Econo, Hertz, and Thrifty. You’ll be on your way to your hotel in no time!

Tips for Renting a Car in Aruba

There’s just a few last things to know before renting a car in Aruba.

1. Book in Advance

Booking ahead not only secures a better rate but also ensures the availability of the vehicle type you desire, especially during peak seasons. Keep in mind that airport rentals might be slightly more expensive than off-site locations, so look at both options!

Consider the size of the vehicle based on the number of passengers and luggage you’ll have. Smaller cars are more fuel-efficient, while larger ones may provide more comfort for longer journeys. Automatic transmission is standard, but if you prefer manual, confirm availability with the rental agency when making your reservation.

Pro Tip: If you plan to explore Aruba’s national park or other off-road areas, consider renting a 4×4 or jeep. Standard sedans are generally not suitable for the rough terrain and you may be forbidden to go there by the rental company.

2. Inspect the Vehicle at Pick-up

Before accepting the car, thoroughly inspect it for any existing damages. Document any issues with the rental company to avoid disputes upon return.

Pro Tip: If you want to ensure there is no problem, take a video slowly around the outside of the car, zooming in on any imperfections. This can help if there is any question when you return the car.

3. Get Car Rental Insurance in Aruba

While not considered mandatory, car insurance in Aruba is highly recommend. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle and liability insurance will protect you from third-party claims. Review the terms of your agreement and insurance to understand your financial responsibility in case of an accident.

Lastly, be aware that your car insurance can be voided if you are in an accident while drunk, which in Aruba is considered maximum blood alcohol content (BAC) of 50mg per 100ml of blood.

4. Learn How to Drive in Aruba

Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, including speed limits, traffic signs, and right-hand side of the road driving.

• Driving is on the right side of the road. You may encounter roundabouts. Cars already on the roundabout have the right of way. Abide by traffic signs, if there is not one at a crossroad, the car to the right always has the right of way. This is also true if you need to turn left – oncoming traffic and those turning right have the right of way.

• Abide by parking regulations to avoid fines. While free parking is available on much of the island, there are some areas in Oranjestad with parking meters where you may need to pay to park. Always check before you leave your car. Also, you cannot park along a curb with a yellow line, on a bridge, over a pedestrian crossing, or on any road with a continuous middle line.

• Gasoline is readily available, but self-service is uncommon around the island. There is usually an attendant that will pump the gas for you. If it is self-serve, pay before you pump. Also, gas prices are regulated by the government so the gas prices will be the same at every station. Most stations accept major credit cards.

• Aruba is relatively small and easy to navigate. However, having a GPS or using a navigation app can be helpful, especially if you plan on exploring off the beaten path. I highly recommend downloading Google Maps of Aruba or Maps.Me and the associate map of Aruba to help you navigate with or without cell reception.

• Generally the speed limits are indicated on road signs in km/h. For urban areas the speed limit is typically is 30km/h. Out of town you’ll find 60km/h speeds. And the fastest roads tend to be 80km/h.

• Do not drink and drive in Aruba. They have strict drunk-driving laws, with a low blood alcohol content (BAC) of 50mg per 100ml of blood. Exceeding the limit and getting behind the wheel can lead to immediate arrest. Opt for a taxi if you’re going to drink.