Discovering Costa Rica

Expenses In addition to the normal expense of gasoline and maintenance, you will be faced with other vehicle expenses as well. Import Duties If you are importing a vehicle, the cost to do so depends on the value of the car calculated by the Costa Rican government. The government sets the value of the car for tax purposes, and the value placed on a vehicle depends on the year, make, model, engine, and accessories. The formula to calculate the exact value is complicated and may vary from year to year, so it is best to get a quote from a Costa Rican Customs Agency prior to importing a vehicle. Marchamo This is the obligatory liability insurance carried on all vehicles in Costa Rica. It must be renewed annually between November 1 and December 31. A car without an insurance decal on the windshield is illegal after the 1st of January. When the marchamo is paid, it is necessary to pay any parking or traffic tickets that were issued against the car during the year. Also the vehicle technical inspection sticker needs to be current. The cost of the marchamo depends on the year, make, and model of the car. Vehicle Technical Inspection Each vehicle must have a certificate in the car and a decal on the windshield that proves the vehicle inspection is current. Inspections are done at one of the Riteve sites around the country. To find a location near you, and even make your inspection appointment, visit: www.rtv.co.cr . The month of the inspection depends on the last digit of your license plate. The vehicles are tested for emissions, brakes, lights, turn signals, windshield wipers, and other safety-related features. Vehicles without a valid decal on the windshield and document in the car are subject to a fine if caught by the transit police. It is not possible to get the next marchamo without proof that the inspection is current. The cost for the inspection may vary year over year. Auto Repairs Given the low labor rates in Costa Rica, the cost to repair your car is less than what you may be used to. The parts, however, may be more expensive but overall the total cost is less compared to other countries in Latin America.

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Discovering Costa Rica