Fuel & Tolls in Costa Rica: A Rental-Car Preparation Guide

Confirm the fuel before the first stop

Ask the rental company which fuel the specific vehicle uses and where the filler release is located. Do not infer the answer from another car of the same brand or the appearance of the vehicle.

Keep the required fuel type written down with the return instructions. A short check at handover can prevent a much larger disruption later.

Make refueling a planned stop

Refuel before a remote or mountain stretch instead of waiting until the warning light. Station availability and opening hours can vary away from major towns.

At the station, clearly specify the required fuel and amount or request. Check the pump display and keep the receipt. If you suspect the wrong fuel was added, do not start the vehicle; contact the rental company immediately.

Prepare the toll payment

Review whether your route uses toll roads and keep an appropriate payment option within easy reach before driving. Payment methods and toll amounts can change, so a backup is useful.

Read the lane signs, slow down and avoid last-minute lane changes. A dedicated electronic lane should only be used with the required payment arrangement.

Protect the final refueling window

Follow the fuel-return requirement in your agreement and include a station stop in the route back to the office. Keep enough time for traffic or a queue.

Retain the receipt until the return is complete and check personal belongings while still parked. Do not let a last-minute fuel search consume the time reserved for the shuttle and airline check-in.

Before you go

• Review the full route while parked.
• Confirm current conditions and hotel access.
• Allow time for breaks and delays.
• Save the rental company's assistance contact.

Useful planning links

Costa Rica travel and road safety