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Costa Rica

Driving Rules in Costa Rica

Tips, Laws, and Local Insights for a Smooth Drive Around Costa Rica

Speed
Urban:
60 Km/h
Rural:
100 Km/h
Highway:
120 Km/h
Drink Limit
Drink Limit:
75 Mg
Max Blood Alcohol Allowed
Fuel Price
Gass:
$0.86 $/Liter
Diesel:
$0.7 $/Liter
Required Documents
Driving License
Passport
International Driving Permit
Insurance
Seat Belt
Front Seat Belt:
Yes
Rear Seat Belt:
Yes
Road Side
Rear Seat Belt:
Left
Min Age
Min Drive Age:
18
Min Rent Age:
25
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What should you know

Requirements to Drive a Car in Costa Rica

To drive a car in San Jose - Costa Rica you must be at least 18 years old. To rent a car in San Jose - Costa Rica you must be 25 years old. Some car rental companies in San Jose - Costa Rica admit minor clients although they charge an extra tax for the service.

Among the documents that you must present when driving in San Jose - Costa Rica are:

  • Your Identification Document
  • Valid driver's license
  • Passport if you are a foreigner

In Costa Rica, Civil Liability Insurance is mandatory so you must have proof of it. If you rent a car in San Jose - Costa Rica, the insurance will already be included in the total cost of the rental.

Where and how to park in Costa Rica

There are several areas that have free parking on the road. You can park in these places as long as you do not violate the traffic laws that regulate parking. Park as long as a vertical sign does not prohibit it or there is no yellow line on the sidewalk. In shopping centers and hotel areas you can find parking with parking meters or ticket machines and covere. There are other places, such as the beach area or vacant lots where you will find improvised or irregular parking lots that offer parking service. 

They are cheaper, although they are not as reliable as official regulated parking. Security and parking Although San Jose - Costa Rica is not an area that is characterized by theft, you should take into account basic rules to avoid the theft of your car or its accessories. 

  • Never leave your vehicle keys in the switch of your vehicle.
  • Leave your car windows closed.
  • Do not park in remote areas or where there is little traffic of people.
  • Do not leave your car in poorly lit streets at night

Disabled parking: In several places you can find exclusive parking areas for the disabled in San Jose - Costa Rica, however, it is not a culture that is widespread throughout the city. If you have a disability, it may be difficult to find parking. 

Talking to the parking attendant may be helpful in finding a better area to park your car. Prevent your car from being towed for being badly parked Be careful to avoid obstructing the traffic or the exit of other vehicles, as well as not blocking garage exits, building entrances, etc. to prevent your car from being towed. Although these incidents are rare, they can occur, especially when it comes to a traffic obstruction.