Toll roads in Costa Rica are easy to use once you understand three things, where tolls are located, which vehicle category you are in, and how to choose the correct lane. Most travelers drive a Class 1 vehicle, and can pay using cash, card, or Quick Pass.
🔎 TLDR
- 🚧 Tolls are called “Peajes”
- 🚗 Most rentals are Clase 1 or Liviano
- 💳 Pay with card, cash, or Quick Pass
- 🛣 Main toll road is Ruta 27
- 💰 Costs are low compared to total trip
🛣 Which Roads Have Tolls in Costa Rica
The most important toll road for travelers is:
Ruta 27, San José to Central Pacific
This highway connects San José with:
- Jacó
- Herradura
- Los Sueños
- Manuel Antonio
You will encounter several toll booths along this route.
Other toll roads exist around the Central Valley and main highways leaving San José.
👉 Check official toll prices here:
- National tolls: https://aresep.go.cr/peajes/tarifas/
- Ruta 27: https://globalviaruta27.com/tarifas/
🚗 Which Toll Category Applies to Your Car
Most rental cars fall into:
Liviano, Clase 1
This includes:
- Sedans
- SUVs
- Compact 4×4 vehicles
- Crossovers
You will only pay higher rates if:
- Driving a large van or minibus
- Using a commercial vehicle
- Towing a trailer
👉 If you rented a standard car, assume Clase 1 pricing.
💰 How Much Do Tolls Cost in Costa Rica
Costs depend on your route, but:
- Short trips include several small tolls
- Ruta 27 has multiple toll points
- Total cost is usually low compared to your trip
👉 Always check updated prices:
- Ruta 27 tolls: https://globalviaruta27.com/tarifas/
- Other roads: https://aresep.go.cr/peajes/tarifas/
Look for:
- “Clase 1”
- “Liviano”
💳 How To Pay Tolls in Costa Rica
You have three payment options:
1. Card, Debit or Credit
Most toll booths accept cards.
Tips:
- Keep your card ready
- Enable international usage
- Carry backup cash
2. Cash
Cash is always accepted.
- Use Costa Rican colones
- US dollars may work in some cases
- Bring small bills and coins
Use lanes marked:
👉 Vía Manual
3. Quick Pass
Some vehicles include an electronic toll device.
With Quick Pass:
- Charges may be billed after your trip
- Tolls are charged automatically
- You use dedicated or mixed lanes
🚦 Toll Lanes Explained
Choosing the right lane is important.
Exclusivo Quick Pass
- Only for vehicles with Quick Pass
- No cash accepted
- Fastest option if available
Vía Manual
- Pay with cash
- Attendant collects payment
Vía Manual y Quick Pass
- Best option if unsure
- Accepts both cash and Quick Pass
✅ Quick Checklist Before Driving
Before reaching a toll:
- Check if your car has Quick Pass
- Carry small cash
- Confirm you are Clase 1
While driving:
- Do not enter Quick Pass lanes without a device
- Follow lane signs carefully
❓ FAQ
Can I pay tolls with a credit card in Costa Rica
No. Cash and card are enough.
Stay calm and follow staff instructions. Do not reverse.
Usually no. They are paid separately or charged later.
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Toll prices, road conditions, and regulations may change. Always verify with official sources before driving in Costa Rica.
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