Costa Rica
PART 1 - DRIVING WITH A DISABILITY
Regulations for people with disabilities to obtain driving licences
Act 9078: Traffic on Public Roads and Road Safety Act
Act 7600: Equal Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities Act
This two acts establish the general regulations for people with disabilities to obtain driving licenses.
All people applying in Costa Rica for a driver’s license must have a doctor’s examination, and they are subject to the doctor’s criteria to obtain a license. For people with disabilities the doctor’s criteria may ask for specific adaptations in the vehicle for the person to be able to drive.
Vehicle type and adaptation to controls
Most drivers with disabilities use a regular car that has been modified with approved devices.The authorities must approve the adaptation to ensure it complies with safety standards.
Application to foreign driving licence holders
A valid foreign driver’s licence can be used for up to 90 days. After 90 days, people must either: Leave and re-enter Costa Rica to renew tourist status, or request licence homologation.
Responsible Agencies
Ministry of Public Works and Transportation
General Directorate of Road Education
Road Safety Council
despacho.transportes@mopt.go.cr
+50625232000
https://www.mopt.go.cr/
PART 2 - PARKING CARDS
Eligibility for disability parking cards
Eligibility is generally for persons with permanent or long-term disabilities that significantly limit mobility
Reserved parking space availability
All public institutions, commercial centers, hospitals, and educational centers must provide a certain number of designated disabled parking spaces. Spaces must have:
Blue paint on the pavement
Wheelchair symbol
Vertical signage
Parking concessions for people with disabilities
The exact concessions can vary depending on local government policy, they can be: free or waived fees, to park without the usual time restrictions.
Application to foreign driving licence holders
Temporary or tourist licences do not automatically allow access to parking cards. Applicants must become legal residents.
Foreigners with a homologated Costa Rican licence are treated the same as citizens for the purpose of disability parking card eligibility.
Disability parking spaces
3.60 m. Wider than standard 2.40 m to allow wheelchair access and ramp deployment.
Responsible Agencies
Ministry of Public Works and Transportation
General Directorate of Road Education
Road Safety Council
despacho.transportes@mopt.go.cr
+50625232000
https://www.mopt.go.cr/
PART 3 - HIRING A CAR IF YOU HAVE A DISABILITY
Regulations for hiring a car if you have a disability
The regulations establish non-discrimination and accessibility rights.
Where to hire a vehicle
Near airports, or cities downtowns
Responsible Agencies
Private sector