Q COSTARICA — No surprise here. Speeding remains the deadliest factor on Costa Rican roads. Between 2022 and September 2025, it has claimed 732 lives: 192 in 2022, 204 in 2023, 175 in 2024, and 161 so far this year, according to official records.
Authorities question whether it is truly worth risking one’s own life or the lives of others to try to gain a few seconds on the road. Although many drivers think more about the fine than the human or legal consequences.
Speeding fines in Costa Rica vary depending on the speed exceeded, and they tend to get steeper the faster you drive over the limit, including points on the driver’s license and even criminal charges for driving over 150 km/h.
Exceeding the limit by more than 20 km/h results in a fine of ¢61,000 with no points; exceeding it by more than 30 km/h results in a fine of ¢123,000 with no points; exceeding it by more than 40 km/h results in a fine of ¢246,000 and 4 points on the driver’s license.
More serious violations, such as driving at more than 120 km/h, result in a fine of ¢364,000 and 6 points.
Reckless driving, which includes driving at more than 150 km/h or under the influence of alcohol, can result in prison sentences, according to the Penal Code.
Paradoxically, those who try to “save time” by driving at high speeds end up investing much more in fines, paperwork, and, in the worst cases, facing legal proceedings for causing injuries or deaths.
The statistics reinforce an undeniable message: speeding remains a constant threat on the country’s roads, with consequences that go far beyond a simple traffic violation.
Strict enforcement
Despite some local tendencies to ignore posted limits, traffic police strictly enforce speed limits and frequently use radar guns.
If you are a tourist driving a rental car, the rental agency will usually handle the fine payment and charge your credit card. They may also add an administration fee. You should inform the rental agency if you receive a ticket.
When stopped by the traffic police, you must present your valid home country’s driver’s license and your passport with a valid entry stamp.
In Costa Rica, you do not need an international driver’s license, but your foreign license is only valid for as long as your tourist visa allows, typically for visitors from North America and Europe have up to 6 months.