Driving in Costa Rica gives full freedom to explore rainforests, beaches, volcanoes, and mountain villages without being tied to bus schedules or tours. Traveling in a rental car allows travellers to reach remote waterfalls, hidden beaches, and national parks without rushing.

Costa Rica is convenient for road trips because the country is compact, distances are manageable, and paved highways connect the major tourist regions. Even short drives offer changing scenery from cloud forests to tropical coasts, making every trip feel like an adventure.

Driving requirements in Costa Rica

To legally drive in Costa Rica, tourists must carry a valid passport and a valid driver’s license from their home country. The license does not need to be international as long as it uses the Latin alphabet and remains valid for the entire stay in Costa Rica.

The minimum legal driving age in Costa Rica is 18, but most local car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 or even 25, depending on the vehicle category. Young drivers often pay additional fees and face stricter insurance rules.

Requirements for renting a car

To rent a car in Costa Rica, you must present your passport, a valid driver’s license, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. Debit cards are often rejected or allowed only with large deposits, which can significantly increase upfront costs.

Mandatory insurance is required by law and is always added to the rental price. Optional coverage, such as full collision damage protection, is highly recommended due to road conditions, unpredictable weather, and high repair costs for even minor accidents.

Entering Costa Rica with your own vehicle

If you enter Costa Rica with your own vehicle, you must complete temporary import procedures at the border. The car will receive a limited-time permit, usually matching your immigration entry period, and the vehicle cannot legally remain longer than your personal visa.

You must carry original registration documents, proof of ownership or authorization if the vehicle is financed, and valid international insurance. Local Costa Rican insurance is purchased at the border and is required before you can continue driving inside the country.

Road types in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a mix of modern highways, secondary paved roads, and rough unpaved rural routes. Major highways connecting San Jose with the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are generally paved and well-maintained, though traffic congestion is common near the capital.

Secondary roads vary greatly in quality. Some are smooth asphalt, while others may suddenly turn into damaged pavement with potholes, steep drops, and narrow bridges. Drivers must remain alert, as road conditions can change quickly even within short distances.

In rural and mountainous areas, dirt roads are common, especially near beaches, waterfalls, and eco lodges. These roads can become muddy, rutted, and difficult to pass during the rainy season, making a high clearance vehicle or Four Wheel Drive (FWD) highly advisable.

Toll roads and payment

Costa Rica has several toll roads, mainly around San Jose and on major highways leading to popular destinations. Tolls are inexpensive and usually cost only a few dollars. Payment is accepted in Costa Rican colones and sometimes in US dollars.

Electronic toll systems are not required for tourists, and most booths accept cash only. Drivers should always keep small bills available to avoid delays and long lines, especially during peak travel hours and holiday weekends.

Traffic rules and regulations

In Costa Rica, traffic drives on the right side, and seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Child safety seats are required for young children, and police strictly enforce this rule, especially near cities and school zones.

Speed limits are clearly posted and enforced by traffic police using radar devices. Highways usually range from sixty to ninety kilometers per hour, while urban areas are lower. Sudden changes in speed zones are common and often strictly monitored.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is taken seriously, with very low legal limits. Random police checkpoints are frequent, especially near beaches and nightlife areas. Heavy fines, license confiscation, and even arrest can result from violations involving alcohol.

Unique local traffic practices

One distinctive feature in Costa Rica is the widespread use of motorcycle taxis and delivery riders, who often pass between lanes even in slow traffic. Drivers should constantly check mirrors before changing lanes or turning across intersections.

Another local habit is informal signaling. Drivers frequently flash headlights to indicate yielding or to warn others of road hazards. This practice is common on narrow mountain roads where visibility is limited and curves are sharp.

Pedestrians and cyclists may appear suddenly, even on highways. In rural areas, people often walk directly along the edge of the road without sidewalks. Livestock crossings are also common, especially in farming regions.

Fuel stations and parking

Gas stations are widely available across Costa Rica, including rural regions and along major highways. Fuel prices in Costa Rica are regulated by the government and remain identical at every station, which protects tourists from overpricing and unexpected price differences.

Most fuel stations provide full service, where attendants pump fuel, clean windshields, and process payment. Cash and cards are both accepted, although some remote stations may temporarily experience card terminal or internet connection failures.

Public parking lots in Costa Rica are common in city centers, beach towns, and tourist zones. Street parking is controlled by painted curb colors and posted signs. Violations may result in wheel clamps, fines, or police towing, especially in congested urban areas.

RV travel in Costa Rica

RV travel in Costa Rica is growing steadily but remains limited compared to North America. Dedicated campgrounds exist mainly near beaches, volcano regions, and eco tourism zones, offering basic services such as fresh water, electricity, and waste disposal points.

Some eco lodges and private farms allow overnight RV stays with prior permission. These locations often provide quiet natural surroundings, basic bathroom access, and limited hookups, making them suitable for short overnight stops between longer travel days.

Remote regions often lack fuel stations, dump sites, or repair services, making careful route planning essential. Drivers should monitor fuel levels closely, store extra water, and avoid isolated dirt roads during the rainy season due to landslide and flood risks.

Navigation and road safety

GPS and mobile navigation apps work well in Costa Rica, but the signal may disappear in remote areas. Offline maps are strongly recommended. Road signs can be inconsistent and sometimes difficult to read, especially outside major tourist zones.

Night driving is not recommended on unfamiliar roads. Poor lighting, narrow lanes, animals on the road, and sudden potholes create serious risks. Many rural roads have no streetlights, and heavy fog is common in mountain regions after sunset.

Defensive driving is essential. Always assume that other drivers may stop suddenly, turn without signaling, or overtake in unsafe areas. Keeping a safe distance and reducing speed in uncertain conditions greatly improves overall safety.

Weather and seasonal driving conditions

During the dry season from December to April, driving is generally easier with good visibility and stable road surfaces. Dusty roads and strong sun are the main challenges, especially on coastal and rural routes.

The rainy season from May to November brings heavy downpours, afternoon storms, and occasional flooding. Landslides may block mountain roads, and river crossings can become dangerous. Drivers should always check weather forecasts before long trips.

Four Wheel Drive (FWD) becomes extremely valuable during the rainy season, especially on coastal access roads and mountain trails. Even paved roads can become slippery with oil buildup during the first heavy rains of the season.

Police checkpoints and fines

Police checkpoints are common throughout Costa Rica and are usually routine inspections. Officers may request your passport, driver’s license, and vehicle documents. Tourists should remain calm, cooperative, and respectful during all interactions.

Traffic fines can be issued on the spot and are officially paid through government banks. Unofficial cash payments to officers are illegal and should be refused politely. Always request written documentation for any citation issued.

What to do in case of an accident

In the event of any accident, no matter how minor, you must not move the vehicle until the police arrive. This rule is strictly enforced, and moving the car before officers arrive may result in fines and insurance complications.

You must call the traffic police and your rental company immediately. Take photos of the scene, vehicle positions, and damage. Exchange information with the other driver, but avoid admitting fault until authorities complete their investigation.

Practical driving tips for tourists

Always keep your documents with you, including your passport, license, and rental contract. Police may request them at any time, and failure to provide proper identification can result in delays and fines. Always carry extra copies safely stored nearby.

Plan routes in advance and allow extra time for travel. Distances may look short on the map, but winding mountain roads, traffic congestion, and weather conditions often make trips much longer than expected. Check local conditions daily before departure.

Avoid aggressive driving and stay patient. Costa Rican driving culture values courtesy over speed. Yielding is common, and road rage is rare. Remaining calm and respectful helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience on all roads.