Rent a Car at La Ceiba Airport (LCE)

Your US driver's license is technically accepted at most rental agencies, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended. Police checkpoints are common outside major cities, and an IDP eliminates any potential issues. You can obtain an IDP through AAA for about $20—it's valid for 1 year and takes minutes to get. Without an IDP, you risk fines of 500-1,000 lempiras (~$20-40) at traffic stops.

Yes, drivers under 25 typically pay a young driver surcharge of approximately $10-15 per day. This is standard across all major agencies including Alamo, Budget, and local companies. Some agencies may also require a security deposit of $500-1,000 held on your credit card. If you're 21-22, budget an extra $280-420 on a week-long rental for this fee alone.

For La Ceiba itself and the main highway (CA-13) to Tela or the ferry port, a standard sedan is fine. However, if you're heading to Pico Bonito National Park, the Bay Islands ferry terminal, or any dirt roads toward the coast, a 4WD is highly recommended. Rainy season (May-November) creates deep potholes and muddy conditions—2WD vehicles have gotten stuck even on marked roads. Rental 4WDs cost only $5-10 more per day than sedans.

Honduras uses unleaded gasoline (gasolina) rated 91 octane. Diesel is also available. In La Ceiba, gas stations are plentiful along main roads. However, if you're driving to remote areas like the Moskitia or inland villages, fill up every time you drop below half a tank—some stretches have 50+ miles between operating stations. Most rentals use the 'full-to-full' policy: pick up with a full tank, return full, or pay market rates plus a $20-50 refueling service fee.

Night driving is not recommended, especially outside La Ceiba's city limits. Unlit roads, vehicles without working taillights, and occasional livestock on the road create serious hazards. Criminal incidents on highways after dark have been reported, including robbery at fake checkpoints. If you must drive at night, stick to the main highways, keep windows closed, and don't stop for anyone waving you down—some are thieves impersonating police.

Police checkpoints are common, especially on highways connecting cities. Fines are typically paid on the spot at 'transito' offices for minor violations, or you may receive a citation to pay at a bank. Common violations: speeding (200-500 lempiras), running red lights (300 lempiras), illegal turns (200-400 lempiras). Some rental cars have GPS tracking—if you exceed speed limits, your rental company may charge your card directly. Always keep your rental agreement and IDP with you; failure to present documents can result in vehicle impound.