Renting a Car in St. Martin

Because there are no formal customs or border control at the roads connecting St. Maarten and St. Martin, rental cars offer travelers the freedom and mobility to tour both the French and Dutch sides of the island for reasonable rates.

Driving is done on the right hand side of the road in both Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin. Both countries will honor international driver's licenses for those who wish to rent cars. Seat belts are required in both countries. Children under 12 are required to ride in the back seat, and children under 4 should be in a car or booster seats. Some rental car agencies even offer safety seats for rent. Roads on both parts of the island are in good condition for the Caribbean, but drivers should beware of poorly lit streets, herds of animals, and concealed or missing street signs. Drivers should always drive defensively while in another country.

Rental agencies must usually deliver cars directly to your hotel, so you may need to take a taxi from the airport. There are many agencies at your disposal on both parts of the island, and you can find rental car stations near the airport. Rental rates are affordable, with prices ranging from $30(USD) to $50(USD) a day with unlimited mileage and free drop-off service. Renters will incur extra fees with the price of gasoline, child seats, extra driver permits, and the highly recommended collision damage insurance, which will generally run from $9(USD) to $14(USD) a day. Credit card holders should also learn about rental vehicle insurance that may be held on their cards.

Requirements and restrictions can vary. If you are concerned about minimum and maximum age restrictions, insurance requirements and the like, consider contacting each firm directly, before making a final decision.

Rental Car Companies in Sint Maarten:

Rental Car Companies in St. Martin:

There are plenty of options for renting a car in St. Martin and St. Maarten, and the absence of a custom or border patrol station means that a short drive is the only thing that separates the French and the Dutch sides of the island.