Q COSTARICA — Need a taxi from the Juan Santamaría (San José) International Airport (SJO)? Would you like the flexibility of a taxi, but with the convenient features of the Uber app?
Nacion.com reports that Uber has confirmed the development of a pilot plan to integrate traditional taxi drivers in Costa Rica into its platform. This initiative aims to facilitate access for taxi drivers to Uber’s digital service, allowing them to connect with customers through the app.
Despite this move, the Ministerio de Obras Publicas y Transportes (MOPT)—Ministry of Public Works and Transport—has warned that this service remains unregulated and is subject to the same laws that apply to other transportation services.
The integration plan represents a step toward modernizing taxi services while navigating regulatory challenges in the country
Users can already request a ride, book a trip anytime through the app or website, and check affordable prices upfront for every trip.
Uber is easy to find and works well in Costa Rica, especially around the Greater Metropolitan Area (San José, Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago).
Impact on Users: Users now have a dedicated option to request a traditional taxi directly from their cell phone. This will increase vehicle availability, especially during peak hours.
App usage: Interested taxi drivers can use the Uber Driver app to register, receive alerts for nearby trips, and maximize their earnings.
Identity preservation: Licensed drivers maintain their independence and the status of their service as regulated by the State.
Legislative context: The company’s announcement coincides with the debate in the Legislative Assembly on bills to formally regulate technology platforms in the country.
The Legal Status & “Front Seat” Rule
Uber officially started operations in Costa Rica in 2015 and still operates in a gray area. The service hasn’t been officially legalized yet, although the government expects it to pay taxes: in June 2019, the company started collecting the 13% value added tax (known as IVA in Costa Rica) on Uber rides.
Because traffic police occasionally fine drivers or confiscate license plates, drivers will almost always ask you to sit in the front passenger seat. This helps the vehicle look like a private car carrying friends or family rather than a ride-share.