What do I need to rent a car in Chile as US citizen while traveling there? Do I need just my license?
If I only drive automatic in US, with basic knowledge of manual transmission, but not active use, can I still rent a manual?
asked Mar 21, 2015 at 17:16
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1The question is: wouldn't you rather rent an automatic?– JoErNanO ♦Mar 21, 2015 at 20:12
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2 Answers
I'm an American living in Chile, and have rented a car here many times. They ask for ID (your US passport if you are a tourist), your drivers license, and a major credit card.
You can rent a manual transmission car if you want. There is no test, or anything. They assume you can drive one, since most people outside the U.S. can. However, automatics are also available (and are common) at most rental companies.
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Hi and welcome. Isn't an international driving licence needed for us citizens to drive in Chile?– JoErNanO ♦Mar 22, 2015 at 10:00
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@JoErNanO, in a few countries I've been, you can drive a car using your original driver's license up to 1 month after your arrival in the country. I'll try to find a resource stating that to post!– gmauchMar 22, 2015 at 10:50
While an International Driver's License is officially required, few car rental agencies enforce that. Consequently, only your US driver's license and credit card are an absolute must for renting a car in Chile.
Without actual experience driving a stick shift, I strongly suggest you either practice driving a manual, or rent an automatic. This being said, nobody will stop you from renting a manual car. It's obviously cheaper, but you'll have a hard time enjoying the drive, and run the risk of damaging the transmission, and charged for repairs.
Just my two cents.
