Car Rental in Punta Cana

Where to drive

• Drive to Macao Beach, one of the last undeveloped public beaches in the area, perfect for surfing or relaxing. It's approximately a 30-minute drive (≈30 km) north of central Punta Cana.
• Visit Higüey and its impressive Basilica Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, a significant religious landmark. This cultural excursion is about an hour's drive (≈50 km) inland from Punta Cana.
• Explore the charming fishing village of Bayahibe, a gateway to Saona and Catalina Islands, offering a different coastal vibe. Expect a drive of about 1 hour and 15 minutes (≈70 km) west.
• Take a scenic route to the easternmost point of the island, Cabo Engaño, for breathtaking ocean views and a sense of untouched nature. This is roughly a 45-minute drive (≈40 km) from most Punta Cana resorts.
• Discover the natural wonders of Scape Park at Cap Cana, offering ziplining, cenotes, and caves. It's conveniently located within a 20-minute drive (≈15 km) from many major hotels.

What documents you need

To rent a car in the Dominican Republic, you will generally need a valid passport, a valid driver's license from your home country, and a major credit card in the driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, though often not strictly required for short-term rentals (up to 90 days), as it provides a translation of your license. The minimum age for renting is typically 21, with some companies imposing a surcharge for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Punta Cana vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars can start from around $20-30 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles might range from $50-100+ USD daily. Prices generally peak during the winter months and major holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

Driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are approximately 60 km/h (≈37 mph) in urban areas, 80 km/h (≈50 mph) on highways, and 100 km/h (≈62 mph) on freeways, though these can vary and are often poorly marked. The legal blood alcohol limit is very low (0.05%), so it's best to avoid drinking any alcohol if you plan to drive. Headlights should be used in tunnels and poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child safety seats are required for young children, so request one when booking if needed.

Parking

In Punta Cana, parking at resorts and most tourist attractions is usually free and plentiful. In more developed commercial areas or towns like Higüey, street parking might be available but can be competitive. While paid parking lots exist, they are less common than in larger cities. Always ensure your vehicle is parked in a well-lit, secure area, especially overnight.

Fuel stations

Gas stations are readily available throughout Punta Cana and along major routes. Fuel prices are comparable to international rates and are usually paid in Dominican Pesos (DOP), though some stations may accept US dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always wise to carry some cash as a backup. There are two main types of gasoline: Regular and Premium (often called 'Super').

Which car to choose

For most of Punta Cana's well-maintained main roads and resort areas, an economy or compact car with automatic transmission is perfectly adequate. However, if you plan to explore more rural areas, venture onto unpaved roads, or carry significant luggage, an SUV with higher ground clearance would be a more comfortable and practical choice. Manual transmission vehicles are less common for rentals.

Frequently asked questions