Renting a Car in Guam: Everything You Need to Know

Do You Need a Car in Guam?

Guam is a small island — only about 30 miles long — but public transportation is limited and taxis can be expensive for full-day sightseeing. If you plan to venture beyond the Tumon hotel strip (and you should — the south and north of the island are stunning), renting a car is the most practical and cost-effective option.

Short answer: yes, rent a car. You'll cover more ground, save on taxi costs, and unlock beaches, villages, and viewpoints that are impossible to reach on foot.

Who Can Rent a Car in Guam?

Valid driver's license from your home country (international or US) is accepted
Minimum age is typically 21–25 depending on the company (some charge a young driver fee for under 25)
Credit card required for the security deposit at most major companies
US driving rules apply — drive on the right side of the road

Japanese and Korean tourists in particular should note that Japanese and Korean driver's licenses are accepted at most Guam rental companies without needing an international permit, but confirm with your chosen company before arrival.

Where to Pick Up a Rental Car

At the Airport

The major international brands are located at Guam International Airport (GUM) in Barrigada, just outside Tamuning:

Alamo Rent A Car Guam — major international brand, wide fleet from economy to minivans, available during airport arrival hours daily
Enterprise Rent-A-Car Guam — another major brand with loyalty benefits if you're an Enterprise member
Dollar Rent A Car Guam — budget-friendly option with an airport counter

Airport pickup is convenient if you want a car from the moment you land, but prices can be slightly higher than off-airport locations.

In Tumon & Tamuning

Most rental companies have offices in the Tumon/Tamuning tourist corridor and offer free hotel shuttles — they'll pick you up from your hotel:

Nissan Rent A Car Guam — one of Guam's largest operators, very popular with Japanese tourists, free shuttle from Tumon and Tamuning hotels, airport counter open 24 hours
TAICO Rent-A-Car Guam — local company on Pale San Vitores Road with low daily rates, free hotel shuttle, open 24 hours
Budget Car Rental Guam — economy to luxury vehicles, open daily 6am–10pm
Islander Rent-A-Car — affordable rates, free airport pickup, daily 7am–7pm
Tropical Rides Guam — if you want something different, they offer jeeps, convertibles, and scooters for a more adventurous experience

For Japanese & Korean Travelers

Two companies specifically cater to Japanese and Korean tourists:

Japan Rent-A-Car Guam — Japanese-operated, 24-hour service, Japanese-speaking staff, GPS navigation included. One of the most popular choices for Japanese visitors.
NIPPON Rent-A-Car Guam — Guam branch of Japan's NIPPON chain, hotel shuttle to Tumon and Tamuning, very familiar to Japanese tourists

If you're more comfortable dealing with staff in Japanese, these two are your best options.

What to Rent

For most tourists exploring Guam:

Economy or compact car — sufficient for two people and day trips around the island
SUV — recommended if you plan to visit southern Guam's rougher roads, or if you have a group of 4+
Convertible or jeep (Tropical Rides) — for a more scenic, open-air experience on clear days

Automatic transmission is standard across all companies — no need to worry about manual gearboxes.

Driving Around Guam

Key Routes to Know

Route 1 (Marine Corps Drive) — the main north-south highway running through Tamuning and Tumon
Route 4 — southern coastal highway connecting Tumon to Agat, Umatac, and Merizo; one of the most scenic drives on the island
Route 15 — connects Tamuning to the east coast

Road Conditions

Roads in Tumon and Tamuning are well-maintained. Southern and northern routes can be narrower with occasional potholes after typhoon season — an SUV gives you more confidence on these roads.

Parking

Parking is widely available and generally free at most beaches, attractions, and shopping centers. Tumon Bay's Pale San Vitores Road has free roadside parking.

Speed Limits

School zones and residential areas: 15–25 mph
Main roads: 35–45 mph
Highway/Route 1: 45–55 mph

Gas Stations

There are gas stations throughout the island. Prices are comparable to mainland US rates. Fill up before venturing south — gas stations become sparse in the southern villages.

Cost of Renting a Car

Budget approximately $40–$80 USD/day for a compact or economy car, depending on the company, season, and whether you include additional insurance. SUVs and premium vehicles run $60–$120/day.

Tips to keep costs down:

Book in advance, especially during peak seasons (January–March, Japanese Golden Week, Korean holidays)
Compare local companies (TAICO, Islander, Japan Rent-A-Car) against the international brands — local companies are often significantly cheaper
Consider the full day cost including any fuel surcharges and insurance

Must-Visit Spots With a Rental Car

Jeff's Pirates Cove (Talofofo) — legendary beachside restaurant on the south coast, about 30 minutes from Tumon
Inarajan Natural Pool — natural ocean pool in the south; inaccessible without a car
Two Lovers Point — northern cliffside viewpoint
Ritidian Beach (northern tip) — one of Guam's most pristine beaches, no public transport access
Umatac Bay — historic southern village with stunning views; Guam's most scenic drive passes through here