Requirements to rent a car in Puerto Rico
Updated: October 2026 · Master Car Rental, Ponce
What you will be asked for at the counter (or at contactless pickup) and how to show up ready. This applies to Master Car Rental in Ponce and, in general, to most rental companies on the island.
1. Minimum age: 21
At Master Car Rental the minimum rental age is 21. Drivers aged 21 to 24 pay an additional daily fee (see terms). From age 25 there is no age surcharge.
2. A valid driver's license
Bring your physical, valid license in your name. US and Puerto Rico licenses are accepted as they are. If you come from another country, bring your valid home license together with your passport; if it is not in the Latin alphabet, add an international driving permit.
The 15-passenger Ford Transit requires a category 4 or higher Puerto Rico license (or the equivalent passenger-vehicle endorsement).
3. A Visa, MasterCard or Discover card in your name
Payment and deposit go on a Visa, MasterCard or Discover credit or debit card in the name of the person who books and picks up. American Express, cash and checks are not accepted, and payment cannot be split across cards. When paying online, use the billing address your bank has on file: a different address can decline the charge.
4. Security deposit
A $200 deposit is held on the card at pickup ($500 for the Ford Transit). It is released when the vehicle comes back in the same condition and with the same fuel level; your bank may take a few days to show it.
5. Insurance and deductible
Every rental includes the required insurance, added per day and already shown in the total before you pay. In case of an accident a $500 deductible applies ($1,000 for the Ford Transit). Insurance does not cover driving under the influence, drivers not listed on the contract or misuse of the vehicle.
6. How you pay for the booking
Book online in 3 steps with one day's payment or the full amount. If you pay one day, the balance is charged automatically the day before pickup. With 3 or more weeks' notice, a cancellation becomes credit toward another booking; with less than 3 weeks there is no refund.
7. What to bring on pickup day
- Your valid driver's license (and passport if you are a foreign visitor).
- The card you paid with, in your name.
- Your order number or confirmation email.
- Traveling with small children? Add the child seat as an extra when booking.
8. After-hours pickup: Car Box
The office is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00am to 6:00pm, at Carr. 2 Km 222, El Tuque, Ponce. If you arrive late, at night or on Sunday, pickup is contactless with the Car Box: the car is ready and the keys wait in a secure box. Cars are prepared Monday through Saturday until 4:00pm, so book ahead.
9. Mercedita Airport (PSE)
Pickup and shuttle to Mercedita Airport are free Monday through Saturday during office hours. Outside those hours we deliver the car at the airport 24/7, ready when your flight lands (airport parking is paid by the customer).
Ready to book
If you meet the requirements you can book your car in Ponce right now: pick your dates, see real availability and pay with your card. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp at 787-419-0000.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent with a debit card?
Yes, as long as it is a Visa, MasterCard or Discover card in your name with funds for the rental and the deposit. Prepaid cards, American Express and cash are not accepted.
Can someone else drive the car?
Only drivers listed on the contract. If another person will drive, they must come to pickup with their valid license to be added as an additional driver.
Do I need an international driving permit in Puerto Rico?
If your license is in the Latin alphabet (for example from Spain, Mexico or any Latin American country), your valid license plus passport is enough. Otherwise, bring the international permit as well.