Driving Regulations in Costa Rica – Driving Laws in Costa Rica.
Some blogs suggest that Costa Rica doesn’t strictly enforce traffic laws—but that’s no longer true. Always follow Costa Rica traffic laws.
Today, Costa Rica driving regulations are taken seriously, and following them is a must.
At Adobe Rent a Car, your safety is our top priority. We’ve created this easy guide to help you drive with confidence and peace of mind.
Yes, you may notice some local drivers bending the rules or being a bit aggressive on the road—but don’t follow their lead. Stick to the rules, drive smart, and stay safe. The traffic laws are here to protect everyone—and ignoring them could mean hefty fines or, worse, an accident.
Driving law changes 2025 – New traffic regulations Costa Rica
In 2025, Costa Rica made new traffic rules to help foreigners drive legally. These changes reduce bureaucracy, improve mobility, and support road safety.
Key Changes for Traffic Laws in Costa Rica
Traffic law changes 2025
Drive with a Foreign License (Up to 180 Days)
Foreigners can use their home country’s driver’s license to drive in Costa Rica for up to 180 days. If you enter Costa Rica with a 180-day tourist visa, you can drive legally for your entire stay. This is part of the road rules update for 2025.
Get Your Costa Rican Driver’s License Faster – No More 3-Month Wait
If you have a visa or work permit in Costa Rica, you can apply for a driver’s license right away. You no longer have to wait three months like before!
Use Digital Driver’s Licenses
If your home country issues digital driver’s licenses, Costa Rica accepts them as valid proof of driving eligibility.
As far as road safety law changes, there are no new ones, yet all the current rules apply.
THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR WHEN DRIVING IN COSTA RICA:
- Avoid River Crossings: Crossing rivers is considered off-roading, and your car rental company’s insurance does not cover it.
- Headlights: You must turn on your headlights when you drive at night. The law requires this between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., no matter how bright it seems outside. This is especially helpful when visiting National Parks.
- Road Conditions: Expect varying road quality in Costa Rican roads. Many rural roads are dirt roads, and you may come across potholes, steep inclines, or rough terrain.
- Rainy Season Hazards: Heavy rain can create puddles that hide deep holes or other road damage during the rainy season. Drive cautiously and avoid speeding.
- Fuel Up Frequently: Gas stations may be sparse in remote or rural areas. Fill up often to avoid running out of fuel—especially on long trips.
- Speed Limits: Speed limits can change frequently, even along main highways. Stay alert and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Lack of Street Signs: Not all roads are marked. Remain attentive and don’t rely solely on GPS.
- Bus Stops on Highways: It’s common to see bus stops directly on major roads. Watch for stopped vehicles and pedestrians crossing without warning.
- Navigation Tip: Bring a paper map as a backup. We at Adobe will provide one when you pick up your rental vehicle.
Types of Traffic Fines – WHAT NOT TO DO!
Traffic rules 2025
Category A Fines – ₡363,639.15 (Approx. $700)
These are the most serious traffic violations:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving over 120 km/h
- Making a U-turn or left turn in prohibited areas
- Overtaking on curves, intersections, or bridges
Category B Fines – ₡245,735.68 (Approx. $480)
These are serious violations with high penalties:
- Transporting children under 12 without a proper car or booster seat
- Failing to stop at a stop sign
- Running a red light
- Driving more than 40 km/h over the speed limit (unless a higher penalty applies)
Category C Fines – ₡122,867.84 (Approx. $240)
These are common offenses that still result in significant fines:
- Driving without headlights between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Passing a vehicle stopped at a pedestrian crosswalk
- Using a mobile phone or other communication devices while driving
- Driving without a valid license
- Speeding over 25 km/h in marked school or health zone areas
- Not wearing a seatbelt or allowing passengers to ride without one
- Driving more than 30 km/h over the speed limit (unless a higher penalty applies)
- Driving below the minimum speed limit for a given road section
Category D Fines – ₡60,813.37 (Approx. $120)
These are minor violations that still carry a penalty:
- Driving 12 to 15 mph (20–25 km/h) over the speed limit
- Disregarding traffic signals (e.g., running a red light or stop sign)
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Motorcycle riders without reflective clothing
- Unauthorized use of designated parking (e.g., for persons with disabilities)
Category E Fines – ₡26,070.69 (Approx. $50)
These are the least severe traffic infractions:
- Driving without necessary vehicle documents (e.g., registration or proof of insurance)
- Not carrying a valid driver’s license
- Incorrectly displaying license plates
- Using loudspeakers within 100 meters of hospitals, clinics, schools, or churches
Adobe’s FAQs
Above, we have listed some of the driving rules in the form of WHAT NOT TO DO.
Flashing headlights has become a common way for drivers to communicate on the road with oncoming traffic. Even though there are no local traffic laws for them, here are the main reasons why they do it:
Warning About Police or Checkpoints:
Drivers often flash their lights to warn others about police presence, traffic stops, or radar speed traps ahead.
Signaling Right of Way:
It’s saying “you go ahead” at intersections or when merging. While it’s courteous, it’s not legally binding, so always use caution!
Alerting You to an Issue:
Sometimes, a driver will flash their lights at you to let you know your lights are off or something is wrong with your car.
Caution Ahead:
Flashing headlights can indicate dangers, such as accidents, road hazards, or animal crossing—especially on rural roads after dark.
Impatience or Road Frustration:
Drivers may flash their lights out of impatience, urging you to speed up or move if you’re driving slowly or blocking the lane.
We recommend that you always use your best judgment and stick to the traffic rules—especially at intersections or when changing lanes.
If you’re involved in an accident, start by calling 911 and notify your rental car company right away.
Do not move your vehicle if you are in a minor collision or blocking traffic. The law requires you to leave it in place.
We offer our Adobe Rent a Car Full-Coverage Protection Plan with 24/7 roadside assistance, vehicle replacements, and more.
Yes. Police officers often hide under trees or in hard-to-see spots when they set up speed traps on main highways.
Speeding over 120 km/h is a class-A infraction. The roads in Costa Rica are not safe for high speeds because the terrain changes frequently.
Driving at more than 40km/h above the speed limit (except if there is a higher penalty) is a class B infraction.
Basic car rental requirements at Abode Rent a Car.
Valid driver’s license – issued at least 2 years prior. Valid for the legal term of your stay in Costa Rica as a tourist.
You must present an International Driving Permit if your license is not in the Latin alphabet. We do accept digital licenses.
Minimum age – 23 years old
Credit card (American Express) Debit Card
Present a valid ID or passport with an entry stamp to the country.
Credit card with printed name required for a US$1,000 deposit (we accept MasterCard, VISA, and American Express). The cardholder must be the same person picking up the vehicle.
Want more tips for driving in Costa Rica? Take a look at our other blog posts!
