For the main part Costa Rica has good roads although in the rainy season the weather can cause potholes to form. At that time of year landslides are also a danger and they can block the road between San José and Guapiles as well as sections of the new San Jose to Caldera Highway. This can cause delays but usually an alternative route is set up and the mess is cleared away quickly.
Many customers choose 4x4 vehicles to explore the amazing natural delights of Costa Rica. However take care when approaching national parks as on occasion they may have warnings of active volcanoes.
Even if they are on a two-way road, drivers should take care when they are approaching bridges in Costa Rica as these usually one-way. More than half of the road accident deaths in Costa Rica are pedestrians so you should take care at intersections and especially when driving at night.
According to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office the standard of driving in Costa Rica is lower than in the United Kingdom. It warns of reckless driving with locals often ignoring speed limits and stop signs. Driving defensively is the best prevention.
Beware of scams when driving in Costa Rica. Sometimes thieves will leave something sharp in the road and then use the opportunity of helping you to change your punctured tire as a distraction. Keep your wits about you at all times.
You must not move the vehicle, not even to the side of the road, until the traffic police have come to inspect it. The only exception to this is if you believe that the accident has been caused in order for criminals to stop your car. In that case you can continue driving but you must explain the situation to the traffic authorities as quickly as possible. When the Traffic Police (Transito 222-9330 or 222-9245) and the Insurance Investigator (INS 800 800 8000) arrive they will complete accident reports.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all drivers and all passengers whether they are sitting in the front or the back seats. Child safety seat should be obtained for young children.
The main motorways are called the Carretera Interamericana (CI) and the Carretera Nacionale (CN).
Regular, Super, and Diesel fuel is readily available right across Costa Rica at 562 Colones ($1.11 per litre). Fuel prices are regulated by the government and service at gas stations is provided by attendants so there is no need to leave the car. You may tip if you wish to do so.
There are heavy fines and possible jail time if you are caught drink-driving in Costa Rica. Drink-driving will also void your insurance.
You need to have an international driving licence along with your domestic licence. It is the legal requirement to have your license and car hire documents with you. It is also a good idea to have your passport, proof of insurance and your vehicle registration information. The police do not have the right to keep these if they stop you.
If you are from the United Kingdom or the United States and can get by on your domestic licence otherwise you need an International Driving Permit.
Traffic Police - Transito
Insurance Investigator - INS
Fuel – Gasolina
Petrol station – Bombas / Gasolineras
There are some toll roads in Costa Rica including the San Jose Caldera Toll Road. These usually provide a better driving experience.
25 kilometres per hour near schools
45 kilometres per hour in built up areas
90 kilometres per hour on highways
Many locals ignore the speed limits but that does not mean it is safe for tourists to do so.
The conversion from kilometres to miles per hour is one kilometre = 0.62 miles per hour. Therefore the speed in built up areas is 25 miles per hour.
You must be 18 to drive in Costa Rica. However rental companies may require you to be over 25 years of age.
You can contact the police on 911 in an emergency, and the fire service and ambulance is also available on this number. Another ambulance number is 128, 118 for the fire department and 2221-5337 for the Police Investigative Service.
If you believe the police or other authorities have acted inappropriately you can call 2257-7798, ext. 2506. In case of an accident call the Traffic Police on 222-9330 or 222-9245 while the Insurance Investigator is on 800 800 8000.
The United States Embassy in Costa Rica is located at Calle 120 Avenida 0, Pavas, San José, Costa Rica and you can call (506) 2519 2000 or 011-506-2519-2000 from the US. Their website is http://sanjose.usembassy.gov/
The British Embassy in Costa Rica is located at San José, Apartado 815-1007
Edificio Centro Colón, (Piso/floor 11) and you can call (506) 2258 2025. Their website is http://ukincostarica.fco.gov.uk/en/
Crime levels are relatively high in Costa Rica so you should always park your car in a safe and well-lit place. Do not leave any valuables in the vehicle. Generally you should make an effort not to wear expensive clothing or jewellery. We advise you to park your car in a parking lot that has security protection where possible.