Local rules and requirements
Renting a car in Panama is a convenient and affordable way to explore the country’s beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. However, there are some rules and requirements that you should be aware of before you rent a car. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Age restrictions
Most car rental companies in Panama require drivers to be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. However, some companies may require drivers to be at least 25 years old. Additionally, some companies may charge a young driver fee for drivers under the age of 25.
Driver’s license
You will need to present a valid driver’s license when you pick up your rental car in Panama. If your license is not in English or Spanish, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in order to rent a car. It’s always a good idea to check with the rental company beforehand to see if an IDP is required.
Insurance
All rental cars in Panama come with mandatory third-party liability insurance. However, this insurance may not cover damage to the rental car itself or theft of the car. Many rental companies offer additional insurance options that cover these types of risks. It’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any insurance policy before you purchase it.
Road rules
Panama has strict road rules that all drivers must follow. Here are a few key rules to keep in mind:
- Drivers and all passengers must wear seat belts.
- The use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
- The maximum speed limit on highways is 100 km/h, but in some areas it may be lower.
- The legal blood alcohol content limit for drivers is 0.08%.
Major car rental companies in Panama
If you’re planning to rent a car in Panama, there are several car rental companies to choose from. Here are a few of the major companies with locations at main airports:
Avis
Avis is a global car rental company with locations in over 165 countries. In Panama, Avis has locations at Tocumen International Airport, Albrook Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, and other major cities. Avis offers a variety of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Website: https://www.avis.com.pa/
Budget
Budget is a global car rental company with locations in over 120 countries. In Panama, Budget has locations at Tocumen International Airport, Albrook Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, and other major cities. Budget offers a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury cars.
Website: https://www.budget.com.pa/
Hertz
Hertz is one of the largest car rental companies in the world, with locations in over 150 countries. In Panama, Hertz has locations at Tocumen International Airport, Albrook Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, and other major cities. Hertz offers a wide range of vehicles, including economy cars, luxury cars, and SUVs.
Website: https://www.hertz.com.pa/rentacar/reservation/
Thrifty
Thrifty is an American car rental company with locations in Panama and other countries. In Panama, Thrifty has locations at Tocumen International Airport, Albrook Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, and other major cities. Thrifty offers a variety of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and vans.