Understanding the full cost of renting a car in St Kitts helps you budget properly and avoid surprises. This guide breaks down every expense, from the daily rental rate and driving permit to insurance, fuel, and deposits.
Daily Rental Rates by Vehicle Type
Rental rates in St Kitts vary by vehicle type and season. These are typical daily rates based on current local pricing:
- Economy car (e.g. Toyota Yaris, Suzuki Swift): US$50 to US$70 per day
- Mid-size saloon (e.g. Toyota Corolla): US$60 to US$90 per day
- SUV (e.g. Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara): US$80 to US$120 per day
- Larger SUV or minivan: US$90 to US$130 per day
Rates may be higher during peak cruise season (November to April) when demand is strongest. Booking in advance typically secures better rates.
See our current fleet and rates: Our Vehicle Offerings
Temporary Driving Permit
All visitors must obtain a temporary local driving permit. This is a one-time cost per visit, not a daily charge.
- Three months: EC$62.50 (approximately US$24)
- One year: EC$125 (approximately US$46)
Most visitors choose the three-month option. The rental company arranges the permit during pickup, so you do not need to visit a government office.
For full details, read: Temporary Driving Permit in St Kitts
Insurance Options
- Third Party Liability (TPL): Usually included in the rental rate at no extra charge. Covers damage to other people or property.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Optional, typically US$10 to US$15 per day. Reduces your financial responsibility if the rental vehicle is damaged. Some companies carry deductibles of US$600 to US$1,200 even with CDW.
- Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW): Available from some companies for an additional US$5 to US$10 per day on top of CDW. Reduces the deductible further.
Ask your rental provider about their specific coverage, deductibles, and what is excluded (e.g. tyres, windscreen, undercarriage).
Security Deposit
Most rental companies require a refundable security deposit held on your credit card:
- Typical deposit: US$100 to US$200
- Held via credit card pre-authorization (not charged unless needed)
- Released after the vehicle is returned and inspected
Some companies may hold a higher deposit for SUVs or premium vehicles.
Fuel Costs
Most rentals operate on a same-to-same fuel policy. Return the vehicle with the same fuel level it had at pickup.
Because St Kitts is only about 23 miles long, a full day of driving uses surprisingly little fuel:
- Typical daily fuel cost: US$15 to US$20
- Full tank (economy car): approximately US$40 to US$50
Fuel stations are located near Basseterre and Frigate Bay. Carry cash as not all stations accept international credit cards.
VAT (Value Added Tax)
St Kitts applies a 17% VAT on goods and services. Some rental companies include VAT in their quoted rate. Others add it separately. Always confirm whether the quoted price includes or excludes VAT before booking.
Total Cost Examples
One Day Rental (Cruise Visitor, Economy Car)
- Car rental: US$60
- Driving permit: US$24
- Fuel: US$15
- Total: approximately US$99
One Week Rental (Holiday Visitor, Economy Car)
- Car rental (7 days at US$55/day or weekly rate): US$330 to US$385
- Driving permit: US$24
- CDW insurance (7 days at US$12/day): US$84
- Fuel: US$40 to US$60
- Total: approximately US$478 to US$553
One Month Rental (Extended Stay, Economy Car)
- Car rental (monthly rate): US$900 to US$1,200
- Driving permit: US$24
- CDW insurance: US$300 to US$450
- Fuel: US$100 to US$150
- Total: approximately US$1,324 to US$1,824
Monthly rates vary significantly by provider. Contact us directly for the best monthly pricing.
Hidden Fees to Watch For
Not all rental companies in St Kitts are transparent about pricing. Watch for these potential additional charges:
- Airport surcharges: Some companies charge extra for airport pickup or drop-off
- After-hours fees: Late pickups or returns outside business hours may incur a fee
- Additional driver fees: Adding a second driver may cost extra
- Fuel replacement charges: Returning the car with less fuel than at pickup can result in overpriced refuelling charges
- Late return fees: Returning after the agreed time may trigger an additional day’s charge
We believe in transparent pricing. All costs are discussed before you drive, with no surprises at return.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a car in St Kitts for one day?
Approximately US$89 to US$114 total, including the car rental, driving permit, and fuel.
How much is the temporary driving permit?
EC$62.50 (approximately US$24) for three months.
Is insurance included in the rental price?
Third party liability is usually included. Collision damage waiver is optional, typically US$10 to US$15 per day.
How much does fuel cost for a day of driving?
Approximately US$15 to US$20 for a full day of driving in an economy car.
Are there weekly or monthly rates available?
Yes. Weekly and monthly rates typically offer savings over the daily rate. Contact us for current pricing.
Does the quoted price include VAT?
This varies by provider. St Kitts applies a 17% VAT. Always confirm whether VAT is included before booking.
Book Your Car Rental
Want transparent pricing with no hidden fees? Book your car rental today.
