Frequently asked questions
Everything to know before you rent in the Dominican Republic
Documents and eligibility
What documents do I need to rent a car?
A valid driver's license held for at least one year, a passport if renting from outside the Dominican Republic, and a credit or debit card in your name for the security deposit. If your license isn't issued in Latin script, bring an International Driving Permit too.
What is the minimum age to rent?
You must be at least 21. A young driver surcharge of $6 per day applies if you're under 25.
Can someone else drive the car I reserved?
Yes, as long as they're listed and registered as an Authorized Additional Driver on the agreement. An additional driver fee of $6 per day plus tax applies. Letting an unlisted person drive voids all insurance coverage.
Do I need a credit card to rent, or can I pay another way?
You need a credit or debit card in your own name for the security deposit, and the name on that card must match the name on the rental agreement.
Payment and deposit
How much is the security deposit, and when do I get it back?
A refundable deposit of $300 for economy and compact vehicles, or $500 for SUVs and pickups, is authorized on your card at pickup and released after a successful inspection at return.
Is there a discount for booking and paying online in advance?
Yes, paying in full online at the time of booking gets you a 10% discount off the daily rate.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancel or reschedule free of charge up to 48 hours before your pickup time. Cancellations inside that window are subject to a one day rental charge.
Can I change my pickup date after booking?
Yes, contact us at least 48 hours before your scheduled pickup and we'll adjust your reservation at no extra cost.
What happens if I don't show up at my scheduled pickup time?
If you don't arrive or contact us within 24 hours of your scheduled pickup time, your reservation is canceled and the deposit is forfeited.
Insurance and damage
Is insurance included in the rental price?
Your base rate doesn't automatically include a damage waiver. Unless you add the optional Collision Damage Waiver or another accepted third party coverage at checkout, you're responsible for the full repair cost or the actual cash value of the vehicle if it's damaged, stolen, or lost during your rental.
What happens if the car is damaged during my rental?
You're liable for the repair cost unless you purchased CDW or accepted third party coverage at checkout. Interior damage such as tears, burns, deep stains, or heavy smoke odor isn't covered by any standard waiver and comes with a separate detailing or restoration charge.
Does my credit card's built in travel insurance cover this rental?
Only third party coverage accepted at checkout applies to your rental. If your card issuer offers rental protection, mention it when you book so our team can confirm whether it qualifies.
What is your no-smoking policy?
Every vehicle in our fleet is strictly non-smoking. Evidence of smoking or vaping inside the car results in a heavy cleaning fee.
Pickup and fuel
Will I inspect the car with someone before I drive off?
Yes. Any pre-existing damage, from scratches to interior stains, gets documented and signed off together on the Vehicle Inspection Sheet before you leave the lot.
Do you deliver the car to my hotel or Airbnb?
Yes, we deliver free of charge to hotels and airports in Punta Cana and Santo Domingo. Delivery to other regions may carry a small fee, ask your reservation agent for details.
Will the car have a full tank of gas when I pick it up?
Yes, we use a like for like fuel policy, so you receive the car with the same fuel level you're expected to return it with, typically full.
What happens if I return the car with less fuel than I received it?
You're charged for the missing fuel at a premium per gallon rate, plus a standard refueling convenience fee.
Does the car come with a spare tire?
Yes, every vehicle in our fleet includes a spare tire and the tools needed to change it.
Driving rules
What should I do if the car breaks down or I have an accident?
Contact Rieles 23 support immediately. If it's an accident, get a police report and exchange insurance information with anyone else involved, then file an internal incident report with us within 24 hours.
Can I get the car fixed myself if something goes wrong?
No. Don't authorize or perform any repairs or modifications without written authorization from our management first.
Do you offer roadside assistance?
Yes, call our 24/7 support line and we'll send help or a replacement vehicle if needed.
Is there a mileage limit on my rental?
No, every rental comes with unlimited mileage.
Can I drive the rental car anywhere in the Dominican Republic?
You need to stay within the geographical boundaries specified at checkout for your rental. Driving outside those boundaries breaches the agreement and makes you liable for damages and recovery costs.
Are there other restrictions on how I can use the car?
Yes. The car can't be driven under the influence of alcohol or any impairing medication, used to transport hazardous or illegal substances, used for ride-share or commercial purposes, used to tow anything, driven off-road or on unpaved or closed roads, or used for racing or speed testing.
Am I responsible for tickets and tolls during my rental?
Yes, you're responsible for all traffic fines, speeding tickets, parking violations, and tolls incurred while you have the car. If we have to process a fine or unpaid toll on your behalf after your rental ends, an administrative processing fee applies per violation.
Returns
What happens if I return the car late?
You get a 59 minute grace period. Past that, late fees apply, up to the cost of a full additional day's rental rate plus administrative fees.
Is there an extra charge to return the car at a different location than pickup?
Yes, returning to a different location than pickup carries a one way fee that varies by distance, confirmed at the time of booking.
Our team answers on WhatsApp in minutes.