Essential Rules for Driving in Costa Rica: Stay Safe on the Roads

Costa Rica’s lush jungles, stunning coastlines, and scenic routes make it a road trip paradise. Let´s make the most of your adventure. It’s essential to understand the country’s driving rules and best practices. Follow Ventu’s advice for a safe and enjoyable journey.

Whether you’re exploring rural backroads or cruising along the coast. This guide will help you navigate Costa Rica with ease and confidence.

Note: You must be at least 18 years old to legally drive in Costa Rica.

Drive on the Right and Pass on the Left

In Costa Rica, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and overtaking is strictly done on the left. Passing on the right is illegal and may result in fines.

Overtaking is only allowed in areas where permitted by road markings:

• Double Yellow Line: No overtaking allowed.
• Solid Yellow Line Plus Interrupted Line on the Right: Overtaking is permitted.
  Always check road signs and markings before attempting to pass other vehicles.

Buckle Up and Secure Child Passengers

• Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers, front and back.
• Child Safety Seats: Children under 12 or shorter than 1.45 meters (4’9″) must use a child safety seat. Prioritize safety by renting or bringing an appropriate car seat. Check here for more details

Know the Speed Limits

• Highways: Up to 120 km/h, unless posted otherwise.
• Secondary Roads: Typically 60 km/h.
• Urban Areas: Generally 40 km/h.
• School Zones and Hospital Areas: A strict limit of 25 km/h applies.

Always watch for speed limit signs, as fines for speeding can be steep.

No Drinking or Texting While Driving

• Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Costa Rica is 0.05%. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe. Depending on the event may include fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges in case of an accident.
• Hands-Free Only: Using a phone while driving is strictly prohibited unless you’re using a hands-free device. Keep your attention on the road to ensure safety for yourself and others.

Carry Essential Documents

To avoid fines or delays, always have the following documents with you:

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• Your passport or a copy of the photo page and entry stamp to confirm your legal stay.
• Insurance documentation in case of any incidents on the road.

Costa Rican authorities may request these documents at checkpoints or during routine traffic stops. Keeping them handy will help ensure a smooth experience. Learn more about driver’s license requirements in Costa Rica here.

Understand Road Signs

Costa Rican traffic signs are in Spanish but use universal symbols. Some common ones include:

• “Alto”: Stop.
• “Ceda el paso”: Yield.
• “Velocidad máxima”: Maximum speed limit.

Familiarizing yourself with these phrases will help you navigate more confidently. 

For a more detailed breakdown of road signs, check out our comprehensive guide here: Main Road Signs in Costa Rica

Navigate One-Lane Bridges Carefully

Single-lane bridges are common, especially in rural areas. 

If there’s a “Ceda el paso” (Yield) sign on your side, you must give way to oncoming traffic.

Exercise Caution at Night

Driving after dark can be challenging due to:

• Limited street lighting.
• Unexpected road hazards like potholes, animals, or unmarked curves.

Avoid long-distance driving at night, particularly in rural or unfamiliar areas.

Be Prepared for Varying Road Conditions

• Urban Areas: Roads are mostly paved but can be narrow with heavy traffic.
• Rural Areas: Expect potholes, unpaved roads, and occasional obstacles like pedestrians or animals.
• Drive slower and keep vigilant, especially during the rainy season.

Park Smartly

• Park in well-lit, secure areas. Use official parking lots when available.
• Don’t Leave Valuables Visible: Keep passports, phones, and bags hidden.
• Avoid parking where the curb is painted yellow, as this indicates no-parking zones.

Pro Tips for Stress-Free Driving in Costa Rica

1. Use Waze for Navigation: It’s the most accurate app for real-time updates on traffic and road conditions in Costa Rica.
2. Download Google Maps Offline: As a backup, download your route on Google Maps in case of connectivity issues in remote areas.

Plan Ahead: Long routes are best driven during daylight to avoid unnecessary risks.