Car Rental in Chile - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Chile is highly recommended for exploring beyond Santiago, particularly for visiting wine valleys, coastal areas, and Patagonia where public transport is limited. Chile drives on the right side of the road, which is familiar for North American and European tourists. The Pan-American Highway and major routes are generally well-maintained, though road quality varies in remote regions and Patagonia where gravel roads are common. Car rental makes sense for countryside exploration, multi-day road trips through diverse landscapes from the Atacama Desert to Torres del Paine, and when you want flexibility to stop at vineyards or scenic viewpoints. However, skip the rental in Santiago where traffic congestion is significant, parking is challenging and expensive, and the Metro system efficiently covers most tourist areas. Driving conditions are generally straightforward, though mountain passes require caution, especially in winter when chains may be mandatory. Be prepared for long distances between services in remote areas. International visitors need their home license plus an International Driving Permit for stays over 90 days. Check current rental requirements and road conditions through booking platforms, as regulations and seasonal considerations can affect your journey.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Chile's specific IDP requirements. Check with Chilean consulate or rental agency before travel.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies in Chile typically require drivers to be between 21-25 years old, though specific requirements vary by company. Young driver surcharges often apply under age 25.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is generally accepted for tourists. Verify acceptance period with your rental agency.

Credit Card

A credit card in the driver's name is typically required for security deposits. Debit cards are often not accepted for the deposit hold.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is usually included, but additional coverage options are available. Review what's covered and consider supplemental insurance for comprehensive protection.

Passport

A valid passport is generally required as identification when renting a vehicle. Keep it with you while driving along with your license.

Rent from major international agencies at Santiago Airport (SCL) or Arturo Merino Benítez for convenience and reliability, though city locations may offer competitive rates - compare options but verify insurance coverage is comprehensive for Chile's varied terrain.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify spare tire and jack are present, and confirm your rental agreement covers gravel roads if planning to visit Patagonia or rural areas where paved roads end.

Download offline maps for GPS navigation as mobile coverage can be unreliable outside major cities - Google Maps works well in urban areas, but consider apps with offline capability for remote regions like Carretera Austral or Atacama Desert.

Fuel stations (bencineras) are widely available in cities but sparse in remote areas - fill up before long stretches, note that fuel prices vary by region, and keep cash as some rural stations may not accept cards.

Return the car with the agreed fuel level (typically full tank) and allow extra time for the vehicle inspection - check current return procedures with your rental agency as requirements may vary by location and company.

Mountain roads in the Andes can be extremely challenging with sharp curves, steep grades, and sudden weather changes - check road conditions before attempting mountain passes, especially in winter when snow and ice are common.

Chilean drivers often follow different lane discipline than Western countries, with frequent lane changes and closer following distances - maintain defensive driving and expect less predictable traffic patterns in urban areas.

Police checkpoints (controles) are common throughout Chile for document verification and sobriety checks - always carry your driver's license, passport, rental agreement, and insurance documents as officers may request them.

Coastal fog (camanchaca) in northern Chile and sudden rain in central regions can create hazardous driving conditions - reduce speed significantly when visibility drops and be prepared for slippery roads, especially after dry periods.