Last Updated on September 9, 2025 by Kristin
From Patagonia’s snow-tipped peaks to the sweeping Atacama Desert, Chile provides one of the most unforgettable road trip experiences on the planet. Whether you plan to spend weeks driving along this 2,670-mile-long country to soak in every bit of scenery or just want to plan a quick beach getaway after a week of meetings in Santiago, having a car is the most convenient way to see this unforgettable South American country. Here are 10 things you need to know about renting a car in Chile.
Essential Tips for Renting a Car in Chile
Book your rental from home.
It will be cheaper to book your car before you get to Chile. The further ahead you reserve your car, the better the chance of landing a deal, especially if you ask AutoSlash to track your reservation for price drops.
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Get an International Driving Permit (IDP).
If your driver’s license is written in English, an International Driving Permit is a good idea. It’s inexpensive and easy to get an IDP, which basically is just a translated version of your driver’s license, but you need to apply before you leave on your trip. You can get this booklet through the American Automobile Association (AAA), but the process must be done weeks in advance of your trip.
Pay in Chilean pesos.
Your rental car company may use a service called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which allows you the option of paying in your local currency when swiping an international card abroad. However, this means an unfavorable exchange rate compared to the one your own bank would use. Always go with local currency when given the option.
Budget for a large deposit.
If you plan to rent a car in Chile, make sure the card you are using has sufficient credit or funds for a hefty deposit. Rental car deposits can often exceed $500, depending on the location, which does not even include the estimated rental costs. Be sure you have sufficient funds to cover not only what you plan to spend on renting the car, but also the deposit.
Crossing borders requires advance planning.
If you plan to take a rental car from Chile into Argentina, do not just show up at the border with your passport and hope for the best. Make plans to cross the border several days in advance. The process requires applying for permits and paperwork, which will typically cost an additional $100 or more. Be sure to notify the rental car company that you intend to cross into Argentina when you book your vehicle to confirm the timeframe and find out if there will be additional charges.
Time it right.
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, remember that the seasons are opposite in Chile. December and January tend to be the best months to visit Patagonia, whereas winter starts in June. Chile has different climates depending on the region, so make sure you pack accordingly.
Watch out for toll roads.
Santiago has several toll roads that collect payments electronically, and they can be confusing. Be sure to ask the rental car company about how to pay for these tolls before getting on your way, or you could be looking at an even more puzzling process of figuring out how to pay those fines later.
Understand how collision coverage works.
Chilean rental car companies may include a collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW) in the rental price. Or they may offer these options at an additional cost. This coverage may still require you to pay a deductible of hundreds of dollars. Alternatively, you may have the option of choosing a higher tier of coverage with a lower deductible. Also, know that if your credit card provides primary car rental insurance coverage in the U.S., it may not cover you internationally. Read the fine print before renting a car in Chile to understand what your financial responsibility would be in the event of an accident, even if you accept the CDW or LDW.
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Check age requirements.
Car rental companies in Chile tend to have different minimum age requirements for renters. Some companies require drivers to be 22 or 23, while others may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee and require a higher deductible.
Be wary of inclement weather and road conditions.
The weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable, especially in the winter months. Keep an eye on weather warnings, and avoid driving in inclement weather. Also, think twice before venturing on unpaved roads. While the views may be spectacular, off-roading in a rental car can be a one-way ticket to voiding your rental agreement and paying fines if the car is damaged or becomes stuck. If you want to veer off the beaten path, it’s a good idea to rent from a company that specializes in off-road vehicles that can handle the tough terrain rather than trying to steer a sedan down gravel roads.
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