Vehicle registration renewal in Costa Rica
How to renew vehicle registration — how it works anywhere
Renewing a vehicle registration in Costa Rica requires completing the mandatory vehicle inspection (Riteve/Dekra) and ensuring all traffic fines are settled. Once these prerequisites are met, the annual circulation permit (marchamo) is paid to complete the renewal process.
Most vehicle owners begin the process at least one month before the end of the calendar year to ensure all documentation is processed before the December 31 deadline for the annual marchamo payment, avoiding long queues at collection points.
Start 30 days ahead
Early preparation allows time to resolve mechanical issues identified during mandatory inspections and to clear any outstanding traffic violations.
The process
- 1Verify the vehicle's inspection status and schedule a mandatory technical inspection (RTV) if necessary.
- 2Pay any outstanding traffic fines recorded in the COSEVI database.
- 3Verify the insurance and registration payment amount via the official INS website or authorized collection points.
- 4Pay the annual circulation permit (Marchamo) at an authorized bank or online portal.
- 5Affix the new sticker (marchamo) to the vehicle windshield as required by law.
What to bring
- Current vehicle identification card (Título de Propiedad)
- Proof of valid technical inspection (RTV/Dekra certification)
- Payment confirmation for the annual circulation permit
- Identification of the owner or authorized representative
Who handles it
Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS - National Insurance Institute) and Consejo de Seguridad Vial (COSEVI - Road Safety Council)
The cost varies annually based on the vehicle's market value, age, and weight, as calculated by the Ministry of Finance; specific amounts should be verified on the official INS payment portal.
What commonly goes wrong
- Failing to clear traffic tickets before the payment deadline can block the renewal process.
- Driving without a valid, current year inspection sticker can result in fines and vehicle impoundment.
- Ensure that the technical inspection is performed at an authorized station, as requirements may update.
Sources
- Instituto Nacional de Seguros - Marchamo ins-cr.com
- 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.