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Driving is on the right side of the road.

All Quito Airport rental cars are automatic transmission.

Your local drivers' licence is required.

An International Drivers' Permit (or IDP) may be required, especially if your local drivers' licence is in a language other than the local language (you may inquire when you pick up your car).

Quito Driving Stress Level: 7/10

The majority of Ecuadorian roads are of poor quality, so you can expect to lose a few tires if you are driving for a couple of weeks. So before leaving the car rental location, make sure there is a car-jack (gato) and a spare tire (llanta de repuesto) in good condition. You should also check the car thoroughly inside and out, since you will be responsible for any scratches or damage when you return it. Replacement of the spare tire is rarely included in your insurance, but you will find tire replacement centres (vulcanizadoras) on roadsides throughout Ecuador. In the case of mechanical failure, Ecuador is relatively small and you will rarely be more than five hours away from Quito or Guayaquil, so roadside rescue or car replacement is not too complicated.

Car Rental Protection
Learn how to protect yourself when renting a car at Quito Airport.