This FAQ instructs how to homologate your foreign driver’s license to receive a Costa Rica driver’s license. This must happen after you get residency.
After 90 days of entering Costa Rica, you’re no longer allowed to drive with a foreign license, even if you have a DIMEX card.
(Side note: An old part of the regulations required you to wait 90 days until your license expired. Fortunately a recent law change allows you to homologate your license before your driving privileges expire.)
*Required Documents (bring original and 1 copy)*
- Proof of Costa Rica Legal Status: Residency card (DIMEX), work permit, or other documentation.
- Your foreign Driver’s License: Must be valid and in good condition.
- Official translation of your driver's license (not needed if it already is in Spanish) Here is a list of official translators and it costs ~$30.
- Valid Passport: Ensure it’s current and in good condition.
- Medical Certificate: Issued by a licensed doctor in Costa Rica (valid for 180 days, cost me $45 in Orotina). There is a place to make copies and also doctors’ offices across the street from COSEVI where you can walk in if you want to quickly get your medical certification before your appointment. Just be sure it doesn’t make you late for your appointment. It is prudent to have it all done before you go.
Two Steps to Homologate Your License
- First Appointment:
Schedule online at this link. Even though we live in Alajuela, be sure to choose Puntarenas as your province. It is customary and closer to go to the COSEVI in Puntarenas. https://servicios.educacionvial.go.cr/Formularios/SolicitarCitaTramite
If this website is acting tricky, try a different browser, turn off auto translate, delete history, and make sure you are not using a VPN. If you are applying to drive a regular car, the type is B-1. The calendar may show your appointment will happen in a few weeks.
On the day of your appointment, put COSEVI Puntarenas into your GPS, and don’t be late. Present all documents during this appointment. The process of waiting in line can be confusing, but hang in there. If you don’t understand Spanish, it helps to bring someone to translate. COSEVI won’t give you a confirmation. You are in the system and can make your next appointment at BCR with your ID.
After approval, go to the Orotina Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) to make your next appointment where you receive the card.
- Next appointment, go to BCR to pay your fees (6000 CRC as of June 2025) wait in line, and pick up your shiny new Costa Rican driver’s license!