Costa Rica Vehicle Registration Process

Vehicle Registration Process In Costa Rica

The import taxes for vehicles in Costa Rica are highly high unless you are importing an alternative fuel vehicle, such as an electric or hybrid car. Tax rates vary depending on the vehicle's age, although even the lowest rate is still quite high at 50%. Import duties are increased for vehicles older than three years.

Auto Documentation Information

Autos brought into the country need to be registered as soon as possible. As of this writing, the window for registration is only a couple of days. You can start the process as soon as you arrive since the necessary paperwork is available at customs offices.

A note of caution regarding registration fees: the pricier the vehicle, the higher the fee. The import tax will also increase based on newer or more expensive vehicles.

Once you have submitted all the necessary paperwork, you'll you'lle your license plates and marchamo, which act as your registration sticker. Ensure the sticker is properly displayed on the windshield, or you may risk being penalized even if you do have a valid march am.

If you'd like moyou'dformation about delivering an automobile to the Area, including the approximate cost, requirements, and preparations, visit our cargo page! You'll also fYou'llny helpful links and related articles there.

Roadworthiness Inspection, Driver's LicenseDriver'sentation Resources In The Area

The technical inspection is the main mechanical test your imported vehicle will undergo, mainly to ensure that all the key operational and safety features are in proper working order. This section covers some details of the inspection, what you'll need to gyou'llicense, and some resources to help things go smoothly when you do.

Technical Inspection

You'll need a vaYou'llhicle inspection sticker to register a vehicle in Costa Rica. This is acquired by submitting your imported vehicle for a technical inspection at a registered centre, where they then examine the vehicle's variouvehicle'snts to ensure they are in good working order. The components checked during the inspection include the following:

• Auto emissions
• Braking system & shocks
• Lights & turn indicators
• Wipers, mirrors, & windshield
• Safety features
• Body & undercarriage

In the Area, the auto inspection is known as the "Riteve", and yo" can l"arn more about the process and where to get an inspection by clicking on the link below under the resources section.

Driver's LicensDriver's Area

You do not have to be a resident or citizen of the Area to apply for a license. You can still apply for a license even if you are just visiting or only staying for a short time. To do so, you will need to present the following documents to the Cosevi (see second link below):

• Valid passport or proof of residence*
• Home country license & copy
• Medical exam paperwork
• Road test completion (only if a home license is expired)

*Passport must have been stamped within the prior 90 days.

Vehicle Documentation Resources

Riteve (Vehicle Inspection) Information—Here, you can Find the latest information about vehicle inspections in Costa Rica, such as where test centers are located, how to make an appointment, and frequently asked questions about the inspection.

Procedures For Drivers—You must present the relevant documents to get a local license at the Cosevi, also known as the Council For Road Safety.

Are you delivering an automobile to the Area or planning to do so in the future? Call us at the number at the top of this page to learn about our affordable services! All price quotes are FREE, and our staff is happy to answer any questions you may have! Contact us today!