Chile is a country located in South America known for its diverse landscapes, from the Atacama Desert in the north to the glaciers in the south. Renting a car is a popular way to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty. In this article, we will discuss the local rules and requirements for renting a car in Chile and list a few of the major car rental companies operating in the region.
Rules and Requirements for Renting a Car in Chile
To rent a car in Chile, you need to meet certain requirements and follow specific rules. Here are some of the essential things you should know before renting a car in Chile:
Driving License
You need to have a valid driving license to rent a car in Chile. If you are a resident of the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, you can use your national driving license. If you are a non-resident, you will need to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your national driving license.
Age Limit
The minimum age to rent a car in Chile is 21 years. However, some car rental companies may require you to be at least 25 years old to rent certain types of cars.
Insurance
It is mandatory to have car insurance in Chile. Most car rental companies provide basic insurance coverage, but you can also opt for additional insurance coverage for extra protection. Make sure to read the terms and conditions of the insurance policy before renting a car.
Payment
You can pay for your car rental using a credit card or cash. Some car rental companies may require a deposit, which will be refunded at the end of the rental period.
Traffic Rules
When driving in Chile, you need to follow the traffic rules and regulations. The speed limit on highways is 100 km/h, and on urban roads, it is 50 km/h. You need to wear seat belts at all times, and it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.
Major Car Rental Companies in Chile
There are several car rental companies operating in Chile, offering a wide range of cars at competitive prices. Here are some of the major car rental companies that are represented at the main airports in Chile:
Hertz
Hertz is a popular car rental company in Chile, offering a range of cars from economy to luxury models. They also offer additional services such as GPS navigation, child seats, and roadside assistance.
You can book your car rental with Hertz on their website: https://www.hertz.cl/rentacar/reservation/
Avis
Avis is a well-known car rental company that has been operating in Chile for many years. They have a large fleet of cars, including economy, mid-size, and luxury models. Avis also offers additional services such as GPS navigation, child seats, and additional drivers.
You can visit the Avis website to book your car rental in Chile: https://www.avis.cl/arriendo-de-autos/sucursales
Budget
Budget Rent A Car is a global car rental company that operates in many countries around the world. They offer a range of cars, including economy, mid-size, and luxury models. Budget Rent A Car also provides additional services such as GPS navigation, child seats, and roadside assistance.
You can book your car rental with Budget Rent A Car on their website: https://www.budget.cl/arriendo-de-autos-en-chile/
Europcar
Europcar is a global car rental company that operates in many countries around the world, including Chile. They offer a wide range of cars, from economy to luxury models, and provide additional services such as GPS navigation, child seats, and roadside assistance.
You can book your car rental with Europcar on their website: https://www.europcar.cl/arriendo-de-autos/
Sixt
Sixt is a global car rental company that operates in many countries around the world, including Chile. They offer a wide range of cars, from economy to luxury models, and provide additional services such as GPS navigation, child seats, and roadside assistance.
You can book your car rental with Sixt on their website: https://www.sixt.cl/rent-a-car/chile
Renting a car in Chile is a convenient and affordable way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes. When renting a car, make sure to meet the requirements and follow the rules, such as having a valid driving license, being of minimum age, having car insurance, and following the traffic rules. There are several car rental companies operating in Chile, offering a wide range of cars at competitive prices. Hertz, Avis, Budget Rent A Car, Europcar, and Sixt are some of the major car rental companies that you can consider when renting a car in Chile. With a rental car, you can explore the country at your own pace and make the most of your time in this beautiful region.