Driving in Costa Rica for 180 Days: The Official 2025 Legal Guide

The End of Confusion: Ley 10591 Explained

In late 2024, the Costa Rican Legislative Assembly passed Ley 10591, a crucial reform that officially amended the country’s Traffic Law (Ley 9078). The most significant change was to Article 91, which now explicitly states that a foreign driver’s license is valid for a period identical to the holder’s authorized legal stay in the country. This reform, published in the official government gazette La Gaceta, resolves the long-standing conflict between immigration and traffic regulations.

What the Law Says (Article 91, Ley 10591):
“Los conductores acreditados con licencia de conducir en el extranjero… quedan autorizados para conducir… por un plazo idéntico al autorizado para su permanencia legal en el territorio nacional.”

Translation: “Drivers accredited with a foreign driver’s license… are authorized to drive… for a period identical to that authorized for their legal stay in the national territory.”

This means that if you receive a 180-day entry stamp in your passport upon arrival, your foreign driver’s license is legally valid for the full 180 days. The old 90-day limit is no longer a point of concern for tourists.

Driving as a Tourist: Your 180-Day Guide

For visitors from the United States, Canada, and other eligible countries, the process is now refreshingly simple. Here’s what you need to know:

Transitioning to Residency: The New, Easier Homologation Process

Perhaps the most beneficial change brought by Ley 10591 is the complete removal of the 91-day consecutive stay requirement for residents. Previously, expats had to prove they had been in Costa Rica for over three months without leaving before they could homologate (convert) their license. This rule has been abolished.

As a new resident, you can now begin the homologation process as soon as you have proof of your legal status. You are not required to take a written or driving exam.

Steps to Homologate Your License as a Resident:

1. Obtain Proof of Residency: This can be your official DIMEX (residency) card or the expediente (official receipt) showing your residency application is in process.
2. Gather Your Documents: You will need your valid foreign license, passport, a medical exam certificate (dictamen médico), and an official translation of your license if it is not in Spanish.
3. Schedule Appointments: Book your appointments online with COSEVI (for document verification) and the Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) for payment and printing.
4. Finalize the Process: Attend your appointments to have your documents approved and receive your new Costa Rican driver’s license, which will be valid for three years.

FAQ: Your Top Questions About the New 180-Day Driving Rule

So, is it official? Can I really drive for 180 days as a tourist?

Yes, it is official. Ley 10591, which reformed Article 91 of the Traffic Law, is now in effect. Your foreign driver’s license is valid for the same duration as your legal stay authorized by immigration, which can be up to 180 days for many nationalities.

What documents should I carry with me when driving as a tourist?

You must always have your valid foreign driver’s license and your passport with a valid entry stamp. These two documents together prove your right to drive.

I have applied for residency but haven’t received my card yet. Can I still drive?

Yes. Once your tourist visa expires, you can no longer drive on your foreign license. However, the new law allows you to begin the homologation process as soon as your residency application is officially filed (you have the expediente). CRIE can assist you in getting this process started immediately to avoid any lapse in your legal ability to drive.

Do I need to take a driving test or a written exam to get a Costa Rican license as a resident?

No. The homologation process for legal residents with a valid foreign license does not require you to take any driving or written exams in Costa Rica.

My foreign license is in English. Do I need a translation?

Yes. For the homologation process, any license that is not in Spanish must be accompanied by an official translation from a government-certified translator. For driving as a tourist, while the law doesn’t explicitly require it, it is highly recommended to carry a translation to avoid any potential issues with the traffic police.

What if a traffic official tries to enforce the old 90-day rule?

While the new law is clear, there can sometimes be a lag in how it is enforced on the ground. If you encounter this, calmly and respectfully show the officer your passport with the 180-day entry stamp and explain that Ley 10591 updated the traffic law to match the immigration stay. Having a copy of the law (or a link to it) can be helpful, but CRIE can provide further guidance on how to handle such situations.

What are the residency requirements to be eligible for homologation?

You must have legal residency status, which includes categories like Pensionado ($1,000/month pension), Rentista ($2,500/month income or a $60,000 deposit), or Inversionista ($150,000 investment).

Where can I get help with my residency and driver’s license?

CRIE specializes in helping expats navigate Costa Rica’s immigration and legal processes. We can manage your residency application and driver’s license homologation from start to finish, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience. Contact us for a consultation.

Let CRIE Guide You Through the Process

Don’t let paperwork and bureaucracy stand in your way. CRIE’s team of experts can handle your residency application and driver’s license homologation seamlessly, ensuring you stay legal and on the road.

• Email: info@crie.cr
• Website: crie.cr