The question regarding the driver’s license extension has been answered. In July 2020, MOPT issued a Circular confirming that if you entered the country as a tourist after December 17, 2019, you can legally drive using a foreign driver’s license until November 18, 2020.

Just nine days before the due date and after filing a request to extend the privilege to legally drive until March 2, 2020, to match Immigration’s entry stamp extension, MOPT has stated that since our air borders are now open and our Immigration Department is also taking applications, they will not extend driving privileges anymore. This information was confirmed via email by the Authentications Department (in charge of approving foreign driver’s licenses).

This means that people who entered the country after December 17, 2019, as tourists and who wish to drive, will be able to do so until November 18, 2020. After November 18, 2020, you must have a legal entry stamp in your passport and a valid foreign drivers’ license to drive in the country during the 90 days, or the time approved upon entrance. If you will depart and re-enter, make sure you keep these considerations in mind. We are doing what we can to see if this can be settled.

The fine to the driver who circulates with a foreign license for more than three months after having entered the country is ₡54.636 (around USD$89) and they can take your plates.

We have received news that Transportation is considering a new extension on the driver’s licenses. We will provide more information as it becomes available. Please wait before making further arrangements to depart the country as it may be unnecessary.