Car Rental at San Juan Airport (SJU) in Puerto Rico

Welcome to U-Save Car Rental, your gateway to the vibrant city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Embrace the allure of this historic city with the convenience of our reliable transportation services. Explore the captivating streets lined with colonial architecture, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, and indulge in the delectable local cuisine — all made easily accessible with our well-maintained fleet of vehicles. 

Whether you're venturing to the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro or soaking up the sun on the stunning Isla Verde Beach, our attentive team is dedicated to ensuring your San Juan experience is nothing short of unforgettable. Discover the charm of Puerto Rico's capital city at your own pace with U-Save Car Rental. Book now and let the adventure begin.

Experience Our Fleet

Tips for renting a car at San Juan Airport (SJU)

Before you rent:

Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.

When you collect your Vehicle:

Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.

Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.

Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.

While you rent:

Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.

When you return your vehicle:

Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.

Puerto Rico

Drive on the right side of the road

USD is the local currency

Average temperatures are 70°F (21°C) - 89°F (32°C)

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Driving in San Juan – Good to know about car hire

 

Driving in Puerto Rico is similar in many ways to driving in the mainland United States. Vehicles travel on the right-hand side, speed limits are posted in miles per hour, and road signs are in Spanish, but mostly follow international symbols. Rental cars from SJU are almost always automatic, and U.S. citizens do not need any special documentation to drive — your home license is valid as Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory.

Upon leaving SJU, you’ll immediately enter well-developed highways such as PR-26 and PR-22, which lead you into the heart of San Juan or toward destinations like Dorado or Arecibo. Roads in the capital and along the coast are typically well-maintained and easy to navigate, though traffic congestion during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) can be significant, especially on main routes and in the Old San Juan area where streets are narrow and parking is limited.

Outside the metro area, driving becomes a breeze. The island's size makes day trips feasible, and major roads like PR-52, PR-2, and PR-3 connect coastal towns and natural landmarks. However, in more rural or mountainous areas — like in Utuado or adjacent to El Yunque — roads may be narrow, winding, or affected by weather-related damage. Potholes, sharp turns, and occasional flooding are common during the rainy season, and GPS estimates may be unreliable due to slower speeds on scenic roads.

Speed limits are 25–35 mph in urban areas, 45 mph on rural roads, and 55–65 mph on highways, though actual speeds vary as drivers often go faster than posted limits. Police enforcement exists, particularly on major highways, and you should always carry your driver’s license and rental agreement.

One quirk to note: While road signage is in Spanish, fuel is priced in U.S. dollars and sold by the liter, not the gallon. Gas stations are frequent, especially in metro areas, and are mostly self-service. Payment via credit/debit cards is common, but carrying small cash can be helpful for rural stations or tipping attendants.

Puerto Rico

 

Driving behavior varies — most locals are polite, but may not use turn signals consistently, and motorcycles may weave between lanes. Also, "carritos" (slow-moving mini trucks) and pedestrians without crosswalks are more common in less urbanized regions.

Parking in San Juan can be tricky. In Old San Juan, parking garages are available and strongly recommended due to narrow streets and limited space. Outside the city center, parking is easier and often free at beaches and attractions. Always avoid yellow-painted curbs, bus stops, or areas marked “No Estacionar,” and be alert for tow-away zones.

Despite minor differences, driving in Puerto Rico is generally comfortable, intuitive, and a fantastic way to explore the island’s diverse geography — from cobblestone city streets to jungle trails and sun-kissed beaches.

FAQs About Driving & Renting a Car at San Juan Airport

Where do I pick up my rental car in San Juan?

Our office is located outside of the airport, at the Isla Verde Mall, located at Ave. Los Gobernadores, Carolina, PR 00979, is approximately 4 to 5 kilometers (2.5 to 3 miles) from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). Our shuttle service will meet you at the airport and drive you to our office. The drive typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

How long does it take to drive from SJU to downtown San Juan?

It usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, but may extend to 30 minutes during rush hour, especially if heading into Old San Juan.

Are roads in good condition outside the city in San Juan?

Yes on major routes, but some rural or mountain roads may be narrow, have potholes, or lack lighting. A higher-clearance vehicle is helpful for scenic detours.

Is there public transportation from the San Juan airport to beaches or other cities?

Not directly. While there is a limited bus system in San Juan, there are no reliable transit options to most beach destinations — a rental car is the best choice.

Are toll roads common in Puerto Rico?

Yes. Toll highways like PR-52 and PR-22 are widely used. Most accept AutoExpreso electronic passes, and rental agencies often include this service in the vehicle. Ask about toll policies when picking up your car.

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Van rental at San Juan Airport – Choose the best option

 

We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even e luxury car – we got you!

Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather. 

Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans. 

Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.

Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!