Driving licence renewal in Costa Rica
How to renew a driving licence — how it works anywhere
Renewing a Costa Rican driving licence involves verifying that all outstanding traffic fines are paid and completing a formal renewal request through the national transport authority. The process can typically be completed in person at authorized offices or through specific banking service points.
It is standard practice to initiate the renewal process at least one month before the document expires. This accounts for potential appointment wait times and ensures that any outstanding traffic violations can be settled without interrupting the validity of the driving privilege.
Start 30 days ahead
Allows time to clear traffic fines and secure an appointment slot at a service center.
The process
- 1Verify that all pending traffic fines (multas) are fully paid in the national system.
- 2Schedule an appointment for renewal through the official online booking system or visit an authorized bank branch offering renewal services.
- 3Present a valid identification document (Cédula de Identidad or DIMEX).
- 4Pay the renewal fee at the authorized collection point.
- 5Verify the details on the new document and collect the updated licence.
What to bring
- Current driving licence
- Valid identification document (Cédula de Identidad or DIMEX)
- Proof of payment for the renewal fee
- Proof that all traffic fines have been cleared
Who handles it
Consejo de Seguridad Vial (COSEVI) / Dirección General de Educación Vial
The fee is set by national decree; applicants should check the official COSEVI website or local bank portals for the current amount in Colones (CRC) as fees are subject to periodic adjustment.
What commonly goes wrong
- Failure to pay all outstanding traffic fines will automatically prevent the renewal from being processed.
- Appointments are often required for in-person visits to COSEVI offices; walk-ins may not be accepted.
- Ensuring that the personal information on the current licence matches the national identification registry is essential to avoid delays.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
- Consejo de Seguridad Vial (COSEVI) csv.go.cr
Don't rely on remembering
Renewals here take about 30 days to start. Add this document and Duratum will tell you when that window opens.