Costa Rica has all that you can look for, the beachy trails, roads with potholes, and smooth highways too! Additionally, a car comes with ownership costs, maintenance dues, insurances, and taxes. Let us take you through everything step-by-step. Hop on the backseat and get ready to explore this arena.

What are the general ownership and routine maintenance costs involved?

Here are the different costs listed out for you:

Annual Marchamo

This is the compulsory liability insurance and registration cost that you’ll have to bear. It is usually payable in the last two months of the year and sums up to approximately USD 230.

Annual Riteve

In Costa Rica, it is absolutely essential to obtain the Riteve, that is, the vehicle inspection for your car. The cost of obtaining a Riteve comes out to be approximately USD 35 to USD 40.

The additional insurance coverage

This is most certainly an optional expense, but if you'd like to take our advice, you should go for national insurance for your car in Costa Rica.

Gas, oil changes, and the air for tires

Gas and oil changes come as part and parcel of every vehicle you decide to own. And, the price of the same varies for individuals depending on the amount and frequency of travel they have in mind. Here's a quick tip, estimate it at the beginning of the month for yourself and keep a tap on your monthly budget!

Gas prices are $1.055 per liter and $3.9 per gallon. An oil change can cost about $10 per quart. One running expense you’re exempted from paying in Costa is air since gas stations offer free pressure checks.

Could there be any unexpected expenses?

Well, of course! You can’t really anticipate everything in advance. To make it simpler for you, we researched and calculated a few of these costs to give you a rough idea.

What are these unexpected expenses?

Here are some unexpected repair costs for your car.

• New headlights and assembly for the car: $40
• Serpentine belt and pulley: $310
• A battery replacement: $120
• Tire patch: $3
• Brake pads parts and installation: $50
• Minor dents and maintenance: $46
• Fixing the missing bolts: $6

What do you require to obtain a Costa Rica Driver’s License with a Foreign Driver License?

It isn't much paperwork. There are essentials, of course, but it won't be too much of a hassle. Here's a quick list of requirements for you:

• Be a legal resident of Costa Rica.
• A copy of your passport as proof of nationality.
• Proof of presence in Costa Rica for a minimum of 91 days. You could show your Entry and Exit stamp issued by the Dept. of Immigration or the Passport Entry stamp.
• Your valid original foreign driver’s license.
• An authorized medical certification, as necessary, for a driver’s license.
• Two signed copies of your foreign driver's license with the local address mentioned.
• In case you have a driver's license of a country that is not the same as the country you're coming from, you need to provide valid residency proof of the third country as well.

Summing it up

Owning a car in Costa Rica is an excellent idea! You get the freedom and thrill of venturing out anytime you want. Whether it is to do your regular chores or a weekend road-trip getaway, buying a car in Costa Rica is a fun option. Buy yourself a used car, or a new one, depending on your budget, and enjoy your rides in Costa Rica!

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