Your Guide to ZOS Airport Car Rental

Your US driver's license is technically valid in Chile for up to 90 days, but rental companies frequently require an IDP as additional identification. We strongly recommend getting an IDP before your trip—it's inexpensive (around $20) and takes just 15 minutes at AAA. Without it, you may face delays or be turned away at some agencies, especially during peak season in Puerto Varas and Osorno.

Yes, mandatory from May to September on Route 7 (the lake district road) and mountain passes like the Antuco route. Even if you're staying near Osorno city, unexpected frost or rain can make mountain sections treacherous. Budget $20-40/day for snow chains if your rental doesn't include them. Some agencies offer winter tire packages—accept it. Renting a 4WD is worth the extra cost ($30-50/day) for peace of mind on unpaved secondary roads near the volcanoes.

Chile's toll booths (peajes) on the Pan-American Highway accept both cash (Chilean pesos) and the automatic Telepeaje tag. Most rental cars come pre-installed with a Telepeaje unit—tolls are charged to your rental agreement plus a small admin fee (around 10-15%). If you're on a tight budget, you can skip it and pay cash, but expect lines at major toll points like the Osorno-Puerto Montt stretch. Tolls typically cost $2-8 per segment.

Almost certainly yes. The minimum driving age in Chile is 21, but most rental companies charge an underage fee for drivers under 25. Expect to pay $15-30/day extra. Some agencies (especially local ones outside the airport) may not enforce this strictly, but the major international chains (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) at Osorno airport will add it to your bill without exception. Factor this in when comparing prices—going local can save you $150-200 over a 10-day trip.

Chile uses gasoline (bencina) in two grades: 93 octane (regular) and 97 octane (premium). Most rentals run on 93—it's perfectly fine. Gas stations are plentiful along the Pan-American Highway and in cities, but they thin out on secondary lake district roads. The stretch between Osorno and Puerto Varas via Route 7 has limited stations, so fill up before leaving Osorno. Chile uses a diesel-like green pump for diesel vehicles, clearly labeled. Remember: Chile uses a满油取还 (full-to-full) policy at most agencies—return it empty and you'll pay steep refueling rates.