Money at SDQ: exchange, ATMs and where cards work
Airport rates are the worst rates in the country. Here is what to do instead.
Updated: 2026-09-11
Short answer
Change only what you need at the airport — enough for a tip and a drink — then use a bank ATM in the city or pay by card. Hotels, restaurants and supermarkets take Visa and Mastercard; colmados, small taxis and beach vendors want pesos. Your transfer can be paid in US dollars, euros or pesos, so you do not need to exchange money for the ride.
Airport counters vs city ATMs
The arrivals-hall counters are convenient and expensive. Bank ATMs (Popular, BHD, Banreservas, Scotiabank) give a much better effective rate; withdraw in pesos and always decline the machine's own conversion offer.
Carry small notes. Nobody at a colmado can break a 2,000-peso bill at 8 in the morning.
Where cards work
Resorts, city restaurants, supermarkets and pharmacies take cards routinely. Amex is patchier. Expect the 18% ITBIS and a 10% service charge to appear on restaurant bills.
Keep some cash for tips, small stops on the road, and beach days in Boca Chica or Bayahibe.
Paying us
Cash to the driver at the end of the ride in USD, EUR or DOP, or bank transfer before travel. Nothing is prepaid, and the price you were quoted is the price you pay — tolls and taxes included.
Frequently asked questions
Should I exchange money before flying?
Not necessary. Bring some US dollars and withdraw pesos from a bank ATM after arrival.
Are US dollars accepted everywhere?
In tourist zones, largely yes, but change comes in pesos and at the vendor's own rate.
Can I pay the transfer by card?
There is no card terminal in the car. Cash on arrival or a bank transfer before travel.
How much cash should I carry per day?
2,000–3,000 pesos covers tips, taxis and snacks for most travellers.
Is it safe to use ATMs?
Use machines inside bank branches, malls or hotels during the day, not standalone street units at night.