Car Rental in Micronesia - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Micronesia varies significantly by island state. In Pohnpei, Chuuk, and Kosrae, car rentals offer valuable flexibility for exploring coastal roads, waterfalls, and archaeological sites at your own pace, as public transportation is limited or non-existent. Yap also benefits from car rental for visiting traditional villages and stone money sites. However, verify current availability as rental fleets can be small. Driving is on the RIGHT side of the road throughout Micronesia. Road conditions range from paved main routes around population centers to rough, unpaved roads in rural areas—particularly challenging during rainy season. Most islands have minimal traffic, making driving relatively stress-free for tourists. Car rental is NOT recommended for staying exclusively in compact town centers like Kolonia (Pohnpei) or Colonia (Yap), where walking suffices. International visitors need a valid driver's license; some states may require a local permit—check current requirements with your rental agency. Unique considerations: fuel stations are limited outside main towns, road signage can be minimal, and some remote sites require 4WD vehicles. Always confirm vehicle condition and insurance coverage before departure, as roadside assistance may be unavailable in remote areas.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Micronesia specifically. Check with local authorities or your rental agency before travel as requirements vary by state.

Minimum Age

Specific age requirements not available. Typically rental agencies require drivers to be 21-25 years old, but verify with your chosen provider.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is generally required. Verify acceptance rules with local authorities as they may vary between FSM states.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance requirements not specified for Micronesia. Confirm coverage options and requirements with your rental agency before booking.

Credit Card for Deposit

Specific deposit requirements not available. Most rental agencies typically require a credit card for security deposits - check with your provider.

Local Driving Permits

Information not available on state-specific permits. Contact local transportation authorities in your destination state (Pohnpei, Chuuk, Yap, or Kosrae) for current requirements.

Rent from established agencies at the main airports (Pohnpei, Chuuk, Yap, Kosrae) where available, as city options may be limited on smaller islands - always book ahead as vehicle availability can be restricted in remote locations.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and verify the spare tire and jack are present, as road conditions on outer islands can be challenging and repair services limited.

Download offline maps before arrival as GPS signal and mobile data can be unreliable outside main town centers - familiarize yourself with major landmarks as street signage may be minimal in some areas.

Fill up at every opportunity as gas stations are sparse outside main towns and may have limited hours - confirm parking arrangements with your accommodation as designated parking areas vary significantly between islands.

Allow extra time for returns and inspect the vehicle together with the agent to avoid disputes, as rental locations may have limited staff and specific operating hours that differ from mainland standards.

Road conditions vary significantly across Micronesia's islands, with many rural and outer island roads being unpaved, narrow, and poorly maintained - drive slowly and watch for potholes, loose gravel, and sudden road deterioration, especially after heavy rain.

Livestock, pedestrians, and children often share the roads without warning, particularly in village areas and on smaller islands where roads serve as community spaces - maintain low speeds in populated areas and stay alert for unexpected obstacles.

Heavy tropical rainfall can create flash flooding and extremely slippery road surfaces within minutes - avoid driving during intense downpours and never attempt to cross flooded roads as water depth and current strength are difficult to assess.

Traffic enforcement and road signage are minimal on many islands, and local driving customs may include informal right-of-way practices - drive defensively, yield generously, and be prepared for vehicles to stop suddenly or turn without signaling.