Car Rental in Palawan - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Palawan can be an excellent choice for exploring the island's diverse attractions, particularly if you're venturing beyond Puerto Princesa to destinations like El Nido, Port Barton, or the less-traveled east coast. The Philippines drives on the right side of the road, which is familiar for most Western tourists. Car rental is especially recommended for countryside exploration, multi-day road trips, and when traveling with family or groups who value flexibility and comfort. However, skip the rental in Puerto Princesa city center where traffic can be congested and tricycles or taxis are more practical for short distances. Road conditions vary significantly across Palawan – main highways connecting major towns are generally well-maintained, but secondary roads to remote beaches or mountain areas may be unpaved or poorly marked. International tourists should note that driving styles can be assertive, and road signage isn't always clear. You'll need an International Driving Permit alongside your home license. Car rental makes most sense for 3+ day itineraries covering multiple destinations, while those staying primarily in one resort area or relying on island-hopping tours may find organized transport more convenient. Check current rental rates and requirements through booking platforms.

International Driving Permit

Generally required for foreign tourists renting cars in the Philippines. Obtain from your home country's automobile association before traveling to Palawan.

Valid Home Country License

Your original driver's license from your home country must be presented along with the IDP and remain valid throughout your rental period.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21-25 years old. Specific age requirements vary by rental company - check when booking.

Credit Card for Deposit

A valid credit card in the driver's name is generally required for security deposits. Debit cards may not be accepted by all agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically included, but comprehensive coverage is recommended for Palawan's varied road conditions. Verify coverage details with your rental provider.

Passport

Valid passport required for identification and rental agreement. Some agencies may require a photocopy for their records.

Book your rental car at Puerto Princesa International Airport where major international agencies operate, making pickup convenient upon arrival - compare rates through booking platforms as prices vary by season and vehicle type.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos, verify the spare tire and jack are present, and confirm the fuel policy (typically full-to-full) - road conditions in Palawan can be challenging outside main routes.

Download offline maps before leaving Puerto Princesa as mobile signal can be unreliable in remote areas of Palawan - GPS navigation may not cover all rural roads, so consider asking your rental agency for route guidance to popular destinations.

Fuel stations are readily available in Puerto Princesa and El Nido, but can be sparse between towns - fill up before long drives and note that parking in tourist areas like El Nido town center is limited during peak season.

Plan to return your vehicle with a full tank and allow extra time for the agency's inspection - if returning at Puerto Princesa Airport, confirm the exact return location and operating hours with your rental company in advance.

Road conditions vary significantly across Palawan, with some rural and coastal routes featuring narrow, unpaved sections that become challenging during the rainy season (June-November). Always check road conditions before traveling to remote areas and allow extra time for journeys.

Mountain roads, particularly in northern Palawan, have steep grades, sharp curves, and limited guardrails - drive cautiously and avoid night driving on unfamiliar routes. Livestock and wildlife crossing roads unexpectedly is common in rural areas.

Traffic enforcement checkpoints are regularly set up throughout Palawan, especially on major routes - always carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, and rental documents. Local driving customs include frequent use of horns as communication and motorcycles weaving through traffic.

Typhoons and heavy monsoon rains can cause flash flooding and landslides on Palawan's roads with little warning - monitor weather forecasts during rainy season and avoid driving through flooded areas as water depth can be deceptive.