Car Rental in Montevideo - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Montevideo is generally not recommended for exploring the city itself, as the capital has decent public transportation, manageable taxi services, and relatively compact tourist areas that are walkable or easily accessible by bus. However, a rental car becomes highly valuable for venturing beyond Montevideo to Uruguay's countryside, coastal towns like Punta del Este, Colonia del Sacramento, or the wine regions. Uruguay drives on the right side of the road, which is familiar for North American and European travelers. Road quality is generally good on major highways, though rural roads can vary. Driving conditions are relatively straightforward, with less aggressive traffic than many Latin American cities, making it manageable for tourists comfortable with driving abroad. The main challenge is navigating Montevideo's one-way streets and finding parking in the city center. For visitors planning a road trip along the coast or exploring multiple destinations at their own pace, a car rental offers excellent flexibility. If staying primarily in Montevideo, skip the rental and use taxis or ride-sharing services instead. Always check current rental rates and requirements through booking platforms, as prices vary by season and availability.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Montevideo's specific IDP requirements. Check with rental agencies and Uruguay's official tourism sources before travel.

Minimum Age

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

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is generally required. Verify acceptance rules with your rental agency for Uruguay-specific regulations.

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 comprehensive protection for peace of mind.

Passport

A valid passport is generally required as identification when renting a vehicle. Keep it accessible during the rental process.

Rent from Carrasco International Airport for convenience upon arrival, where major international agencies operate alongside local companies - compare rates but verify insurance coverage carefully before choosing based on price alone.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and check that spare tire, jack, and required safety equipment are present - Uruguayan law requires specific items that rental staff should confirm.

GPS or offline maps apps are recommended as street signage in Montevideo can be inconsistent in some neighborhoods - download offline maps before pickup as mobile data may be limited depending on your plan.

Most stations offer both regular and premium fuel - clarify the required fuel type and note that many stations have attendants who pump for you, so tipping small change is customary practice.

Plan to return with a full tank as refueling charges are typically higher than pump prices, and allow extra time for the return inspection process - airport returns during peak hours may have queues.

Montevideo drivers often disregard lane markings and traffic signals, particularly at intersections - exercise extreme caution even when you have right of way, as local driving customs can be unpredictable compared to Western norms.

Rush hour traffic (typically 7-9 AM and 5-8 PM on weekdays) creates significant congestion on main avenues like 18 de Julio and coastal roads - plan extra travel time during these periods.

Cobblestone streets in Ciudad Vieja (Old City) and some residential areas can be slippery when wet and may have uneven surfaces - reduce speed in these zones, especially during or after rain.

Random police checkpoints for document verification and sobriety checks are common throughout the city - always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, insurance documents, and passport or ID when driving.