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Costa Rica Highway Checkpoints: What You Need to Know (June 2025)

Driving through Costa Rica this month? You may have noticed an uptick in highway checkpoints. It’s not random. Tránsito (Costa Rican traffic police) are stepping up roadside inspections—especially along key routes like Route 27 and the Interamericana.


For expats, tourists, and long-term visitors, getting stopped isn’t always a problem—unless you’re unprepared. Here’s what they’re checking for this June, and how to make sure you stay on the right side of the law.


What Tránsito Police Are Looking For


1. Valid Documentation

  • Driver’s License: Tourists can drive with a foreign license for up to 180 days from your last entry stamp. If you’re past that window, you’re technically driving illegally—even if you're still within your visa stay.

  • Passport (or Copy): You must carry your physical passport with your entry stamp—or at least a clear, legible copy of both.

  • Marchamo & Inspection (RITEVE/DEKRA): These are non-negotiable. If your annual vehicle tax or technical inspection is expired, you’re a ticket magnet.


2. Speeding

  • Radar traps are common on highways, especially near curves or downhill stretches.

  • Fines increase steeply for drivers going 40 km/h or more over the limit.

  • Typical limits:– Highways: 80 km/h– Towns/Urban: 40–60 km/h


3. Seatbelt Enforcement

  • Everyone in the car—front and back—must be buckled.

  • Kids under 12? They need a booster or child seat based on weight and height.


4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

  • Breathalyzer tests are legal and increasingly common.

  • A positive test can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, and in rare cases, deportation for non-residents.


5. Dangerous or Illegal Driving

  • No-passing zones: Never overtake on curves, bridges, or where double lines are marked.

  • Illegal turns & U-turns: Follow signs carefully. Just because others do it, doesn’t make it legal.

  • Red lights and stop signs: Enforcement is strict, even in rural areas.


6. Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

  • Reflective Triangles (x2)

  • Reflective Safety Vest

  • Spare Tire & Jack


If you’re pulled over and can’t show these items, expect a citation.


🔥 FAQs: Fire Extinguishers & Machetes

  • Fire Extinguisher:Not required in most personal vehicles anymore, despite outdated online info.

  • Machete:Legal if used as a tool (especially in rural areas for clearing debris). Don't keep it visible or accessible from the driver’s seat.


🚨 Recent Checkpoint Zones:

Tránsito has increased its presence on key corridors, including:

  • Route 27 (San José → Pacific Coast)

  • Route 2 / Interamericana Sur

  • Near Orotina, Ciudad Cortés, and Uvita during weekends and holidays


🚗 Tips for a Smooth Roadside Stop

  • Stay calm, polite, and respectful.

  • Have your documents ready—license, passport, vehicle registration.

  • Don’t offer a bribe. Ever.

  • Use Waze or Google Maps to spot known checkpoints in advance.


Final Thoughts


Getting stopped on a Costa Rican highway isn’t unusual—it’s part of keeping the roads safe. As long as your documents are valid, your vehicle is compliant, and you’re driving responsibly, you’ve got nothing to worry about.

So breathe easy, buckle up, and enjoy the drive.


Arcadia Team

Helping Expats Navigate Costa Rica with Confidencearcadiacostaricarealestate.com📞 +506-8783-3230 | WhatsApp-friendly

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