Car rental requirements in Cuba for prepared travelers only

Renting a car in Cuba can turn your trip into an unforgettable adventure through colonial cities, tobacco fields, and Caribbean coastlines that tour buses never reach. But the process comes with unique challenges that catch most travelers off guard. February 2025 brought new regulations that changed document requirements, and the fuel payment system now works completely differently than it did just a year ago. You’ll need specific documents, a prepaid card for gas stations, and realistic expectations about costs that often exceed $600 for a week.

This guide covers everything from the mandatory MLC fuel card to what happens if you have an accident (spoiler: you might not be able to leave Cuba for months). Whether you’re planning your first Cuban road trip or confused by conflicting advice online, you’ll find current 2026 requirements, transparent cost breakdowns, and practical strategies that work on actual Cuban roads.

Updated document requirements for renting a car in Cuba (2026 regulations)

The documents you need to rent a car in Cuba changed in February 2025, when the government reduced the driving experience requirement from two years to one year. This makes rentals accessible to younger drivers and those who recently obtained their licenses, though you’ll still need to meet specific conditions depending on which vehicle category you choose.

Documents you must bring

Your driver’s license is the most critical document, and it must be valid with text in Latin characters (English, Spanish, French, German, or similar alphabets work fine). As of February 2025, you need to have held your license for at least one year, not two years as was previously required. If you recently renewed your license, bring the previous one as well – either the physical card or a clear digital photo – because rental agents may ask to verify your driving history. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from Cuba, and you’ll need to present it alongside your license at pickup.

Payment requires a credit or debit card from a non-US bank. American-issued cards don’t work anywhere in Cuba due to ongoing sanctions, so if you’re a US citizen, bring EUR cash to purchase a prepaid MLC card (explained in detail later). You’ll also need your rental confirmation voucher, either printed or accessible on your phone, with the booking reference number clearly visible. Keep these documents together in a secure travel wallet because you’ll reference them multiple times during pickup, at police checkpoints, and when returning the vehicle.

Important: February 2025 regulations introduced a new requirement for recently renewed licenses. If your license was issued within the past year but you’ve been driving longer, bring your expired license as proof of your total driving experience.

Do you need an international driving permit for Cuba?

The short answer is no, you don’t legally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license uses Latin characters. Cuba is not a signatory to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, which means the country sets its own rules about foreign licenses. All major Cuban rental companies (REX, Cubacar, Havanautos, VIA) accept valid licenses from the US, Canada, UK, EU countries, Australia, and most other nations without requiring an IDP.

That said, getting an IDP before you travel makes practical sense for three reasons. First, it serves as an official translation of your license into Spanish, which helps during police interactions if you’re stopped at a checkpoint or involved in an accident. Second, some rental desk agents are unfamiliar with foreign license formats and may ask for additional documentation – an IDP resolves that quickly. Third, if your license uses a non-Latin alphabet (Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese), you absolutely need an IDP because rental companies won’t accept licenses they cannot read.

You can obtain an IDP before departure from organizations like AAA in the United States (costs around $20, takes 10 minutes), national auto clubs in Europe and Australia, or similar authorized agencies in your country. The process is straightforward: bring two passport photos, your valid driver’s license, and payment. The IDP is valid for one year from the issue date.

Age and experience requirements

You must be between 21 and 80 years old to rent a car in Cuba. The minimum age of 21 applies across all rental companies, though some impose experience requirements beyond the standard one year for high-performance and luxury vehicles. If you’re renting through REX and choose the I Sport category (sports cars), you need three years of driving experience. For REX F Luxury vehicles (Mercedes, Audi, and similar premium brands), you need two years of experience. Standard economy and mid-size cars from all companies require just one year of experience as of February 2025.

Age-based insurance surcharges apply at both ends of the spectrum. Drivers aged 21-24 pay an additional $10-13 per day for insurance through Cubacar and Havanautos (REX typically includes this in the base rate). Drivers aged 76-80 pay an extra $10 per day through Cubacar, though other companies may not impose this surcharge. These fees are non-negotiable and charged directly at pickup, so factor them into your budget when comparing companies.

Document	Requirement	Notes
Driver’s license	Valid, Latin characters, held ≥1 year	Previous license if recently renewed
Passport	Valid 6+ months beyond departure	Required at pickup and checkpoints
Credit/debit card	Non-US bank issued	For deposit, insurance, fees
Rental confirmation	Printed or digital	Booking reference number visible
IDP (optional)	Recommended for non-Latin licenses	Get before departure ($20, valid 1 year)

How much does it really cost to rent a car in Cuba?

Car rental in Cuba costs significantly more than you’ll pay through your initial booking. The advertised daily rate covers only the vehicle itself – you’ll face mandatory insurance, deposits, fuel charges, and additional fees that typically double or triple your expected total. Understanding the complete cost structure before you arrive prevents sticker shock at the rental desk and helps you budget accurately for your trip.

Daily rental rates by car category

Economy cars like the Kia Picanto or MG3 start around $49-60 per day during low season (May, June, September, October) and climb to $65-75 per day during high season (November through February, July, August). Mid-size sedans such as the Peugeot 301 or Geely Emgrand range from $65-80 in low season to $90-110 in high season. SUVs like the Hyundai Santa Fe or similar models cost $115-140 per day year-round due to limited availability and high demand for extra cargo space and passenger capacity.

Luxury vehicles available exclusively through REX – including Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4, and BMW 3-Series – run $150-200 per day with longer experience requirements and higher insurance premiums. Most travelers rent economy or mid-size cars because Cuban roads don’t require SUV capabilities, and fuel costs add up quickly for larger engines. Prices fluctuate based on demand, so booking during peak periods like Christmas, New Year, or Easter can push rates even higher than the ranges listed here.

Mandatory and hidden costs

Insurance is mandatory and costs $10-30 per day depending on your vehicle class and age. This covers fire, theft, collision, and third-party liability, but it includes a deductible of $200-350 that you’ll pay if you’re at fault in an accident. The insurance does not cover tire theft (surprisingly common), damage caused by negligence (wrong fuel type, unlocked car), or incidents involving unauthorized drivers. If you’re 21-24 or 76-80 years old, expect to pay the upper end of this range due to age surcharges.

Security deposits range from $150-250 and must be authorized on your credit card at pickup. This is refundable if you return the car without damage, but holds can take 7-30 days to appear back in your account depending on your bank. You’ll pay for the first full tank of fuel upfront ($40-65 depending on tank size) and return the car empty – there’s no refund for unused fuel. Additional drivers cost $3-5 per day, with a maximum of two drivers allowed on most rental contracts.

One-way drop-off fees apply if you pick up in one city and return in another. These aren’t small amounts – dropping a car in Santiago de Cuba after picking up in Havana (860km) costs $103-172 depending on rental duration and company. Some rental companies also charge airport service fees of $20-25 for pickup or return at José Martí International Airport in Havana or other major airports.

Practical tip: Call your rental company 48 hours before pickup to confirm the exact insurance cost for your age and vehicle class. Agents sometimes quote lower rates during booking and add surcharges later, which causes confusion and budget overruns. Get the total amount in writing via email if possible, including insurance, deposit, fuel, and any fees. This prevents surprise charges when you’re standing at the desk with no alternatives.

One-way rental fee calculation

One-way fees use distance-based formulas that vary by company and rental duration. VIA Rent a Car, which allows the longest rental periods (up to 45 days), charges $0.12 per kilometer for rentals of seven days or longer when the distance is under 400km. For distances over 400km on week-long rentals, the rate increases to $0.15 per kilometer. Rentals shorter than seven days pay higher rates: $0.15 per kilometer up to 400km and $0.20 per kilometer beyond that.

Within-province drop-offs (traveling more than 20km but staying in the same province) cost a flat $0.20 per kilometer regardless of rental duration. Cubacar and Havanautos use different calculation methods and often require you to contact them directly for a quote rather than publishing fixed formulas. REX waives one-way fees on certain popular routes (Havana to Varadero, for example) but charges for less common connections.

As an example, if you rent a car for seven days and drive from Havana to Trinidad (approximately 320km), you’ll pay 320 x $0.12 = $38.40 for the one-way drop-off. A shorter three-day rental on the same route would cost 320 x $0.15 = $48. For longer trips like Havana to Santiago de Cuba (860km), the calculation splits: first 400km at the lower rate, remaining 460km at the higher rate, totaling roughly $103-172 depending on your rental duration.

Total cost examples

Here’s what you’ll actually pay for a typical week-long rental, not just the advertised daily rate. This example uses an economy car rented in November (high season) with standard insurance and a one-way drop-off from Havana to Trinidad.

Cost item	Amount
Daily rate ($49 x 7 days)	$343
Insurance ($20 x 7 days)	$140
Security deposit (refundable)	$200
First tank of fuel	$60
Additional driver ($3 x 7 days)	$21
One-way fee (Havana to Trinidad, 320km)	$38
Total upfront payment	$802
Non-refundable cost	$602

You’ll pay $802 at pickup, but $200 of that (the deposit) comes back if there’s no damage. Your actual trip cost is $602, which works out to $86 per day – 76% more than the advertised $49 daily rate. A 14-day rental in low season with a mid-size car and no one-way fee would cost approximately $1,150-1,400 upfront depending on insurance costs and fuel consumption.

The MLC card system: How to pay for fuel in Cuba

Critical update: As of 2025, cash and regular credit cards are no longer accepted at tourist-designated fuel stations in Cuba. You must have an MLC prepaid card to buy gasoline for your rental car. This system change caught many travelers off guard in late 2024 and early 2025, leaving some stranded at gas stations unable to fuel their vehicles. Don’t make that mistake – getting an MLC card is your first priority after landing in Cuba.

What is an MLC card and where to get it?

MLC stands for Moneda Libremente Convertible (Freely Convertible Currency), and the prepaid card functions like a rechargeable debit card accepted at designated CUPET fuel stations and some supermarkets. You’ll also hear it called the “Classic Card” or “Tarjeta Clásica.” The card itself is a physical plastic card similar to a bank card, and you load it with USD or EUR equivalent that converts to Cuban Pesos (CUP) at the official exchange rate.

Purchase MLC cards at CADECA offices (Cuba’s official currency exchange bureaus) located in airports, major hotels, seaports, and some shopping centers. The Havana airport has a CADECA office immediately after you exit customs in Terminal 3 – stop there before heading to your rental car pickup. Other locations include Varadero airport, Santiago de Cuba airport, and CADECA branches in provincial capitals. Bring your passport and either EUR cash or a non-US credit card (Visa or Mastercard issued by European, Canadian, or other non-American banks). CADECA does not accept USD cash for MLC card purchases, only EUR cash or non-US cards.

The card costs a one-time processing fee of $5 USD equivalent. This fee is separate from the amount you load onto the card. Cards are valid for five years (updated in 2025 from the previous two-year validity), so if you plan to return to Cuba, keep the card for your next trip and simply reload it. You can check your balance and reload at any CADECA office or through the EnZona mobile app if you set up a Cuban digital wallet, though most tourists find the app more complicated than worth the effort.

How much to load and how it works

Load amounts depend on your rental duration and vehicle type. A full tank for an economy car holds approximately 40-45 liters and costs $52-59 at current rates of $1.30 per liter. Mid-size cars with 50-liter tanks cost around $65 to fill. As a rough guideline, budget $60-80 per full tank and expect to fill up every 400-500 kilometers depending on driving conditions and speed.

For a week-long trip covering 800-1,000 kilometers, load $150-200 onto your card. For a two-week journey across the island (1,500-2,000 kilometers), load $300-400. It’s better to overload than underload because rural CADECA offices have unpredictable hours and may be closed when you need to reload. The good news: unused balances are fully refundable at airport CADECA offices when you’re leaving Cuba, minus a small processing fee (usually 2-3%). You’ll get cash back in EUR or USD depending on what’s available.

Using the card is straightforward once you reach a CUPET station. Pull up to the pump, tell the attendant “lleno, por favor” (fill it up, please), and specify “Gasolina Especial” (never use “regular” gasoline, which damages rental car engines and voids your insurance). Hand over your MLC card. The attendant swipes it, pumps the fuel, and returns the card with a receipt showing your remaining balance. If you have problems, CADECA’s phone hotline (80201996) can help, though English support is limited.

Practical tip: Load your MLC card immediately after arriving in Cuba, before picking up your rental car. The CADECA office at Havana’s José Martí Airport (Terminal 3) opens at 8:00 AM and can have lines of 30-60 minutes during peak travel times, so factor this into your arrival day schedule. If your flight lands late at night and CADECA is closed, stay overnight near the airport and return to CADECA in the morning before heading to the rental office. Running out of fuel in rural Cuba with no way to pay for gas will ruin your trip.

Fuel station strategy

Cuban fuel stations designated for tourists (primarily CUPET brand) are scattered throughout the island, with much lower density in eastern provinces compared to Havana and western Cuba. Your rental company will provide a printed or digital list of tourist-authorized stations at pickup – don’t lose this document. Regular Cuban fuel stations that serve locals with subsidized prices won’t sell to you or accept your MLC card, so the list is essential.

Never let your tank drop below 50%. This golden rule prevents you from getting stuck between stations, especially on rural highways where you might drive 80-100 kilometers without seeing a CUPET station. Fuel shortages happen periodically in Cuba, and stations sometimes run out of Gasolina Especial for days at a time. If attendants tell you they’re out of fuel, ask when the next delivery is expected and plan accordingly. Some travelers report success by arriving early in the morning (6:00-7:00 AM) when fresh deliveries are most common.

Fill up before leaving any major city, even if your tank is at 60-70%. The small cost of topping off beats the stress of searching for open stations in unfamiliar areas. Keep your fuel receipts in case of disputes with the rental company about tank levels or fuel quality issues.

Choosing the right rental company in Cuba

All Cuban car rental companies are state-owned or military-affiliated, which means service quality, vehicle condition, and pricing are relatively similar across the board. The three main brands – Cubacar, Havanautos, and REX – operate under the Transtur umbrella, while VIA Rent a Car is owned by Transgaviota, a military enterprise. Your choice comes down to vehicle specialization, rental duration limits, and whether you’re a US citizen subject to additional restrictions.

State-owned rental companies overview

Havanautos operates the largest fleet and widest network of pickup locations across Cuba, making it the most convenient option if you’re starting your trip outside Havana or need to return the car in a smaller city. Their vehicles lean toward economy and mid-size categories with manual transmissions (automatic transmissions are available but limited). Cubacar offers similar coverage and pricing to Havanautos with marginally newer vehicles in some locations, though experiences vary by branch. Both companies limit rentals to 30 consecutive days maximum.

REX specializes in newer vehicles and luxury categories (Mercedes, Audi, BMW), with better customer service reported by travelers willing to pay premium rates. REX also waives one-way fees on select popular routes and maintains vehicles to higher standards than the other state companies. VIA Rent a Car allows the longest rental period at 45 days, which appeals to travelers spending extended time in Cuba, but it’s owned by Cuba’s military conglomerate and off-limits to US citizens due to OFAC sanctions.

Company	Fleet size	Specialization	Max rental period	One-way fee	US citizens
Havanautos	Largest	Economy-midsize, manual transmission	30 days	Distance-based (quote required)	Allowed
Cubacar	Large	Standard cars, some automatic	30 days	Distance-based (quote required)	Allowed
REX	Smaller	Luxury vehicles, newer fleet	30 days	Free on select routes	Allowed
VIA	Medium	Tourist routes, longer rentals	45 days	$0.12-0.20/km formula	Restricted

Which company to choose?

Choose REX if you want the most reliable service, newest vehicles, and are comfortable paying 15-30% more than Cubacar or Havanautos. REX gets consistent positive reviews for vehicle condition, customer service responsiveness, and transparent pricing. Their offices handle paperwork faster (still expect 45-90 minutes), and they’re more likely to have the specific vehicle class you booked rather than offering a “similar substitute.”

Cubacar and Havanautos deliver nearly identical experiences at slightly lower prices. If cost is your primary concern and you’re renting an economy or mid-size car, book whichever offers the better rate for your dates. Read your confirmation carefully because both companies tend to provide manual transmission vehicles unless you specifically request and confirm automatic transmission availability. Cars are typically 2-5 years old, functional but showing wear, and cleaned between rentals though not always thoroughly.

Avoid VIA if you’re American. The company is owned by GAESA (Grupo de Administración Empresarial S.A.), Cuba’s military business conglomerate, which means US citizens face legal risks under the Cuban Assets Control Regulations administered by OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control). While some Americans report renting from VIA without immediate consequences, you could be fined up to $250,000 if the US government decides to enforce sanctions against you. It’s not worth the risk when Cubacar, Havanautos, and REX are available.

None of these companies offer direct online booking through their own websites. Book through third-party agencies like TUI Cars, Holiplus, rent-a-car-cuba.com, or similar intermediaries that consolidate Cuban rental inventory. These agencies handle international payment processing (which Cuban companies cannot do due to sanctions) and provide customer support in English before your trip.

How to book and pick up your rental car in Cuba

Booking a rental car in Cuba requires more advance planning than in most countries because inventory is severely limited, especially during high-season months. Walking up to a rental desk hoping for same-day availability almost never works – you’ll either find no cars available or pay inflated rates for whatever vehicle remains.

Booking timeline: How far in advance?

Book 2-3 months ahead for high season travel (November through February, July through August, and Easter week). Demand during these months far exceeds supply, and the most economical car categories (Kia Picanto, MG3, similar economy models) sell out quickly. Christmas and New Year periods require booking 4-6 months in advance if you want any choice in vehicle type or pickup location.

Low season (May, June, September, October) offers more flexibility – 4-6 weeks advance booking usually secures decent availability and pricing. That said, Cuban rental companies sometimes remove vehicles from the rental pool for maintenance or redeploy them to higher-demand locations, so even low-season bookings can face last-minute substitutions or cancellations. Confirm your reservation one week before departure and again 48 hours before pickup to verify the car is still reserved.

Minimum rental periods are three days for most of the year. During December, Easter week, and July-August, Cubacar imposes a five-day minimum for new rentals. You cannot rent for just a weekend or a single day, which makes car rental impractical if you’re only visiting Havana or staying at a beach resort for a short time.

Practical tip: Use a third-party booking agency rather than trying to contact Cuban rental companies directly. Agencies like TUI Cars, Holiplus, and rent-a-car-cuba.com have English-speaking staff, accept international credit cards, and email you confirmation vouchers that Cuban rental desks recognize. Attempting to book through Cuban company websites (which barely function and don’t process payments) or trying to arrange rentals by phone from abroad leads to frustration and uncertainty about whether your reservation actually exists.

At pickup: What to expect and check

Arrive at the rental office early – ideally when they open – because processing paperwork takes 60-180 minutes even with a confirmed reservation. Cuban rental offices are chronically understaffed, computer systems are slow, and agents handwrite much of the documentation. Bring patience and don’t schedule tight connections on your pickup day.

Present your driver’s license, passport, credit card, and rental confirmation voucher. The agent will calculate your insurance cost (varies by age and vehicle), process your deposit hold, charge you for the first tank of fuel, and add any additional fees (extra driver, one-way drop-off, airport service). All payments must go on your credit card – they don’t accept cash at rental desks. If you’re American with no functioning credit card, this is where you’ll face problems unless you pre-loaded an MLC card with enough balance to cover deposits and fees (which some offices accept, others don’t).

Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before accepting it. Walk around the entire car and photograph or video all existing damage from multiple angles – scratches, dents, cracked lights, damaged bumpers, tire wear. Make sure the rental agent notes every mark on the condition report (formulario de condición) and signs it. Check the spare tire, jack, warning triangle, and tool kit because you’ll need these if you have a flat. Verify the fuel gauge matches what the agent recorded. Test the locks, windows, air conditioning, wipers, and lights before leaving the lot.

Ask for the list of designated CUPET fuel stations, the rental company’s 24/7 emergency phone number (write it down separately in case your phone dies), and clarify the return procedure for your specific drop-off location. If you haven’t bought an MLC fuel card yet, ask the agent for the nearest CADECA office location and hours.

Special considerations for US citizens

US credit and debit cards are blocked throughout Cuba, which creates payment challenges Americans must solve before arriving. Bring at least €300-500 in EUR cash (not USD, which carries a 10% penalty fee when exchanged in Cuba) to purchase an MLC prepaid card at CADECA. You can use the MLC card to pay for fuel, some restaurants, and certain rental car expenses depending on the company.

Never rent from VIA Rent a Car as an American. VIA is owned by GAESA, Cuba’s military conglomerate, and renting from them violates OFAC regulations that prohibit financial transactions with Cuban military entities. Stick with Cubacar, Havanautos, or REX – these are considered civilian tourism enterprises under current US Treasury guidelines, making rentals from them legal under the Support for the Cuban People travel category.

You must qualify under one of twelve authorized travel categories to visit Cuba legally as a US citizen. Most independent travelers use “Support for the Cuban People,” which allows activities that support private Cuban businesses and cultural exchange. Renting a car and exploring independently fits this category, but keep records of where you stayed (casas particulares, private apartments) and what you did (visiting artists, eating at paladares, attending cultural events) in case you’re ever audited by OFAC.

Your US driver’s license is valid in Cuba, but bring an International Driving Permit as extra documentation during police stops. Cuban police officers are generally polite to American tourists now that relations have partially normalized, but having all your documentation in order prevents miscommunication.

Driving safely and legally in Cuba

Cuban roads present hazards most travelers don’t encounter in developed countries, from unannounced railroad crossings to animals wandering onto highways at night. Add limited signage, spotty navigation options, and aggressive local driving styles, and you have conditions that demand constant attention and defensive driving.

Road conditions and navigation

Road quality deteriorates significantly as you travel east from Havana. The main east-west highway (Autopista Nacional) is reasonably maintained from Havana to Sancti Spíritus (about 400km), with two lanes in each direction and mostly smooth pavement. Beyond Sancti Spíritus toward Camagüey, Holguín, and Santiago de Cuba, expect more potholes, crumbling shoulders, and sections reduced to a single usable lane. Secondary roads connecting smaller towns range from acceptable to barely passable, with deep potholes that can damage suspension if you hit them at speed.

Rental cars don’t include GPS navigation because the technology isn’t widely implemented in Cuba and imported GPS devices are restricted. Download offline maps before your trip using Maps.me or Google Maps offline feature (download the Cuba map while you have WiFi at home or at your Cuban hotel). These apps use your phone’s GPS receiver without needing cellular data, showing your location on saved maps. Road signs exist but are often missing, vandalized, or faded to illegibility, so you’ll rely heavily on your offline maps and asking locals for directions.

Average travel speeds are much slower than the distances suggest. Figure 80 km/h (50 mph) on highways and 50 km/h (30 mph) on secondary roads for realistic trip planning. The 860km drive from Havana to Santiago de Cuba takes 10-12 hours with fuel and rest stops, not the 7-8 hours that highway speeds would suggest. Posted speed limits are 100 km/h on highways, 90 km/h on paved secondary roads, 50 km/h in urban areas, and 40 km/h in school zones, though enforcement is inconsistent.

Watch for unmarked railroad crossings, which still see active train traffic and have no barriers or flashing lights. Slow down when you see rail tracks crossing the road ahead and look both directions carefully. Animals – horses, cows, pigs, chickens, dogs – wander freely in rural areas, especially at dawn and dusk. Never drive at night if you can avoid it. Roads are poorly lit, painted lane markers are nearly invisible, and the combination of livestock, bicycles without lights, horse carts, and intoxicated drivers makes night driving genuinely dangerous.

Alcohol, traffic rules, and police

Cuba enforces strict zero-tolerance laws for drinking and driving. Any detectable alcohol in your system results in arrest, potential jail time, and immediate license suspension. Don’t consume even a single beer if you’re driving that day – it’s not worth the risk of Cuban legal proceedings and extended detention.

Speed cameras operate on major highways, and police checkpoints are common on routes between tourist destinations. Officers will ask for your driver’s license, passport, rental agreement, and insurance certificate. Keep these documents organized in a folder that you can hand over quickly. Fines for speeding, running stop signs, or other violations range from $30-100 and must be paid either on the spot (officers carry receipt books) or at the rental office when you return the car. The rental company will charge your card if the police send them the fine paperwork.

You’re required to carry a warning triangle and reflective safety vest in the car at all times – these are provided by the rental company and usually stored in the trunk. If you break down or have an accident, place the triangle 50 meters behind your vehicle and wear the vest while standing outside. Failing to use safety equipment can add to your fines if police respond to your incident.

Parking and security

Never leave your car unattended without supervision because rental vehicles with “T” license plates are obvious targets for thieves. Tire theft is particularly common – criminals remove one or more tires and wheels within minutes if you park unsecured overnight. Your rental insurance doesn’t cover tire theft, leaving you responsible for replacement costs of $200-400 per tire.

Use official parking attendants wearing red or orange vests and charging 1-2 CUC (roughly €1-2). These attendants watch your car in exchange for payment and will intervene if someone suspicious approaches your vehicle. In areas without official parking, informal attendants will approach and offer to watch your car for the same rates. This is effectively mandatory – declining means your car will likely be vandalized or have items stolen. Think of it as cheap security and budget 2-4 CUC per day for parking fees.

When staying at casas particulares (private homes) overnight, ask your host about secure parking. Most hosts arrange for a neighbor to watch your car through the night for 1-2 CUC. Park as close to the house as possible and remove all valuables from inside the car – GPS devices, sunglasses, bags, chargers, anything visible from outside should come with you into the house.

What happens if you have an accident in Cuba?

Critical warning: If your accident causes injury or death to another person, you cannot leave Cuba until the investigation is complete and authorities clear you. This process can take weeks or months, during which time Cuban officials will hold your passport. Prison sentences up to 10 years are possible if you’re found responsible for serious injury or death. This is not theoretical – it happens to tourists every year.

Immediate steps after an accident

Check immediately whether anyone is injured – in your car, the other vehicle, or among pedestrians or cyclists nearby. If there are injuries, call an ambulance (104) and the police (106) before doing anything else. If the accident caused only vehicle damage without injuries, you still must call the police and wait for them to arrive. Do not move your vehicle unless it’s creating an immediate safety hazard (blocking a blind curve, sitting in the middle of a high-speed road). Moving the vehicles before police document the scene can void your insurance claim.

Call your rental company’s 24/7 emergency number (provided at pickup and also printed on your rental agreement). Explain what happened, where you are (use your offline map app to give coordinates or describe landmarks), and whether anyone is injured. The company will send assistance or walk you through the next steps. Stay on the line if you’re unsure what to do – don’t hang up in panic.

Document everything while waiting for police. Take photos and videos from multiple angles showing vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and the surrounding area. Photograph the other vehicle’s license plate, rental markings (if also a rental), and damage. Exchange information with the other driver: name, contact details, vehicle information, rental company (if applicable). If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information – witness statements can help your case if liability is disputed.

Do not admit fault or apologize, even if you think you caused the accident. “Lo siento” (I’m sorry) can be interpreted as accepting responsibility, which affects insurance liability determination. Stick to factual statements about what happened without assigning blame. Don’t sign any documents in Spanish unless you understand exactly what they say – if the police or other driver asks you to sign something, request an English translation or ask your rental company to send someone who speaks English to assist you.

Police report and insurance claims

The police will prepare an official accident report called a “denuncia.” This document is absolutely mandatory for your insurance claim to be valid. Without a police report, your rental company will charge you 100% of all repair costs regardless of who caused the accident. The report takes 1-3 hours to complete as officers measure the scene, interview drivers and witnesses, and document damage. You’ll receive a copy – keep it with your rental papers and make a photo backup on your phone.

Your mandatory rental insurance covers collision damage, fire, theft, and third-party liability, but you’re responsible for the deductible if investigators determine you’re at fault. Deductibles range from $200-350 depending on your rental company and vehicle class. If the other party is at fault and the police report confirms this, you won’t pay the deductible. Insurance does not cover damage caused by negligence: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leaving the car unlocked, using the wrong fuel type, allowing an unauthorized driver to operate the vehicle, or reckless driving.

Return to your rental company’s nearest office as soon as possible after the accident to report the incident officially and start the claims process. Bring your police report, photos, and any medical reports if you or passengers were injured. The company will assess the damage and either authorize repairs (if the car is drivable) or provide a replacement vehicle. You’ll pay the deductible at this time if you’re at fault.

Legal consequences

Minor accidents with only vehicle damage and clear fault determination usually resolve within 1-3 days. You’ll pay your deductible, possibly receive a replacement car if yours needs extended repairs, and continue your trip. The police report and insurance claim documentation will follow you home, but you won’t face legal action beyond the financial settlement.

Accidents involving injuries escalate dramatically. Cuban authorities will retain your passport and prohibit you from leaving the country until the investigation concludes and any criminal or civil proceedings finish. This process takes weeks at minimum, often months. You’re responsible for your accommodation, food, and other expenses during this time, plus legal representation if charges are filed. If investigators determine you caused serious injury or death through negligence (speeding, running a stop sign, drunk driving), you face criminal charges with potential prison sentences.

Travelers who cause fatal accidents in Cuba have served 6-18 months in Cuban prisons before trial, with sentences up to 10 years if convicted of vehicular manslaughter or negligent homicide. This is the single biggest risk of renting a car in Cuba that most guides don’t emphasize enough. Drive extremely defensively, obey all traffic laws, stay completely sober, and avoid night driving to minimize your accident risk.

Penalties, fees, and how to avoid them

Beyond accidents and insurance deductibles, rental companies impose penalties for contract violations and vehicle damage that you can avoid with proper planning and care.

Violation	Fee
Lost car keys	$200
Keys locked inside car	$100
Car returned excessively dirty	$50
Transporting animals in vehicle	$50
Late return (more than 59 minutes past agreed time)	Full additional day rental rate plus insurance
Returning car without police report after damage incident	100% of all repair costs (insurance void)
Wrong fuel type used (regular instead of Gasolina Especial)	Engine repair costs (often $1,000-3,000) plus insurance void
Unauthorized driver operating vehicle	Insurance void plus 100% liability for any damages

How to avoid penalties

Keep your car keys in a secure zippered pocket or attached to a lanyard around your neck when you’re outside the vehicle. Lost keys require towing the car to a locksmith or rental office, paying the $200 replacement fee, and losing half a day of your trip. Locked-in keys happen when you’re pumping gas or loading luggage and accidentally hit the lock button – double-check before closing the door, especially in hot weather when you’re rushed and distracted.

Return the car reasonably clean. You’re not expected to detail-wash it, but if it’s covered in mud, has trash throughout the interior, or smells of smoke, you’ll face a $50 cleaning fee. A quick wipe-down of dusty surfaces and removal of your trash is sufficient. Most rental offices have water hoses where you can spray off major dirt before returning the vehicle.

Set a phone alarm for 23 hours into each rental day to track your return deadline. If your pickup was Thursday at 2:00 PM, you must return the car by Thursday 2:00 PM one week later for a seven-day rental. Arriving at 2:30 PM gives you a 30-minute grace period most companies honor, but 3:05 PM (5 minutes past the 60-minute grace) means you’re charged for an eighth full day plus insurance, adding $60-90 to your bill.

Only drivers listed on the rental contract can operate the vehicle. If police stop you or you have an accident with an unauthorized driver at the wheel, your insurance becomes void and you’re personally liable for all costs. Adding a second driver costs just $3-5 per day – it’s cheap insurance compared to the alternative.

Practical tip: Fill your tank only with Gasolina Especial, never “regular” gasoline (gasolina corriente). Regular fuel is heavily subsidized for Cuban citizens and costs much less, but it damages rental car engines designed for higher-octane fuel. Using regular fuel voids your insurance and leaves you paying for expensive engine repairs. At every gas station, tell the attendant “Especial, por favor” clearly and watch that they select the correct pump. Especial pumps are usually marked with red or premium labels, while regular pumps are marked verde or green.

Should you rent a car in Cuba? Weighing alternatives

Renting a car in Cuba isn’t the right choice for every traveler or every itinerary. The combination of high costs, infrastructure challenges, and potential legal complications means you should carefully consider whether the independence justifies the investment and risks.

Rent a car if:

• Your trip lasts seven or more days and covers multiple cities or rural areas like Viñales, Trinidad, or the eastern beaches
• You’re comfortable with basic Spanish for asking directions and handling gas station transactions
• You’re a confident, experienced driver who can handle poor road conditions, aggressive local drivers, and unexpected hazards
• Your budget allows $600-1,000+ for the complete rental cost including insurance, fuel, fees, and parking
• You value freedom and flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations that buses don’t reach
• You’re traveling as a couple or small group that can split costs

Consider alternatives if:

• Your stay is shorter than three days (the minimum rental period makes it impractical)
• Your budget is tight (rental costs add up quickly when you include all the mandatory fees)
• You don’t speak Spanish (navigation requires asking locals for help frequently)
• This is your first visit to Cuba (infrastructure surprises can be overwhelming for first-timers)
• You’re staying in a single city like Havana (taxis and walking are more economical and less stressful)
• You’re uncomfortable with the accident detention risks (the legal system operates very differently than in Western countries)

Alternatives to renting

Private drivers with cars offer more comfort and less risk than self-driving. You’ll pay $60-120 per day depending on distance and vehicle quality, but that includes someone with local knowledge who handles navigation, police interactions, and fuel stops while you relax and watch the scenery. For multi-city trips, private drivers make sense if you’re traveling solo or as a couple where rental car costs aren’t shared among several people.

Viazul bus service connects major tourist destinations with modern coaches at extremely low prices ($10-25 between cities). The catch: schedules are limited (often one bus per day between cities), online booking is unreliable, and buses sometimes cancel or run hours late. Viazul works if you have a flexible schedule and patience for Cuban time frames. Book tickets in person at the station when you arrive in each city rather than relying on the website.

Colectivos are shared taxis that run fixed routes between major cities for $25-50 per person. These are usually 1950s American cars or more modern sedans that leave when they fill up with 4-5 passengers. They’re faster than Viazul buses but less comfortable (tight seating, no air conditioning in vintage cars) and drop you at a central point rather than your accommodation.