Costa Rica´s Best Guide Online Magazine

DRIVING IN COSTA RICA Many VISITORS and newly arrived RESIDENTS are wary of DRIVING in Costa Rica.

It is, however, not as bad as some make it out to be. I learned to drive in California where I drove for 25 years with the exception of a couple of years driving German autobahns. When I arrived in Costa Rica nearly 30 years ago, I found a very different driving environment here where drivers were less than careful or obedient of the laws. I also found that the normally friendly Tico can at times have a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde personality when it comes to being behind the wheel. That being said driving in Costa Rica is quite doable as long as you maintain a constant alertness, unlike driving on a Freeway where you can zone out at times and still be okay, a lack of attention here can result in an accident. It could be a big pothole that you fail to see, a sudden motorcyclist that passes you where you don´t expect it, a truck or bus that bullies its way into your lane, or a farm animal that blocks your way. So basically, you need to bring your alertness and your patience, and you should be okay. Also, try to avoid driving at night unless it is a major highway and even then, nighttime will increase two or three-fold your probabilities of accidents. Your home country Driver's License is valid for the duration of your 180-day Visa but only 90 days allowed for a vehicle brought in.

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