By San José, Costa Rica — In a significant policy shift providing major financial relief to a cornerstone of the national economy, the Costa Rican government has officially extended the maximum operational lifespan of tourist transportation vehicles. The reform increases the age limit from 15 to 20 years, a move celebrated by industry leaders as a vital lifeline that will bolster the sector’s stability and capacity for investment.
The change comes via an amendment to the 2010 executive decree 36223-MOPT-TUR. This regulatory update directly impacts all tourist transport units authorized by the Public Transport Council (CTP), the government body overseeing public transit regulations. This five-year extension allows operators to maximize the value of their fleets, alleviating the immense capital pressure of frequent vehicle replacement cycles.
To better understand the legal intricacies and responsibilities within the national tourist transportation sector, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Many operators in the tourist transport sector dangerously underestimate the legal distinction between private transport and public service. Operating without the specific permits from the Public Transportation Council (CTP) and the corresponding insurance policies exposes not only the driver to severe sanctions, but also hotels and tour agencies that subcontract these services, making them jointly liable in case of an accident. Full compliance is the only way to protect both the tourist and the business.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight underscores a critical, often-overlooked reality: compliance in tourist transportation is a shared responsibility across the entire industry. As highlighted, it’s not just about avoiding sanctions, but about upholding the integrity of the business and ensuring the absolute safety of every visitor. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable perspective on this crucial topic.
For hundreds of small and medium-sized transport businesses across the country, this decision is more than just a regulatory tweak; it is a fundamental improvement to their business models. The extension provides crucial breathing room, allowing companies to allocate funds toward other critical areas such as staff training, service improvements, and technological upgrades rather than being forced into premature fleet modernization. This flexibility is expected to enhance the overall competitiveness of Costa Rica’s tourism offerings on the global stage.
The announcement was met with widespread approval from key industry organizations, which have long advocated for such a change. Associations like the Costa Rican Association of Tourism Operators (ACOT) and the Association of Tourist Transporters (Asotranstur) have praised the government’s responsiveness to the sector’s practical needs. Asotranstur, in particular, highlighted the collaborative effort behind this regulatory victory.
This achievement is no accident. It is the result of years of dedication, perseverance, coordinated work, and firm leadership within our guild.
Asociación de Transportistas Turísticos (Asotranstur), Official Statement
The government’s rationale appears rooted in a pragmatic understanding of the economic realities facing the tourism industry. By allowing well-maintained vehicles to operate longer, the administration provides tangible support without direct fiscal expenditure. This policy acknowledges that the operational age of a vehicle is not the sole determinant of its safety or reliability, placing renewed emphasis on rigorous mechanical inspections and maintenance standards to ensure passenger safety.
While the economic benefits are clear, the policy implicitly relies on the country’s robust vehicle inspection program (RITEVE) to mitigate any potential safety or environmental concerns. All vehicles, regardless of the extended age limit, must continue to pass stringent periodic evaluations covering everything from braking systems to emissions. The regulations also maintain existing standards, such as the minimum capacity requirement of nine passengers for most tourist transport units, ensuring service quality is not compromised.
Ultimately, this extension represents a strategic alignment of public policy with industry needs. It empowers transport operators to build more resilient businesses while continuing to offer the high-quality service that tourists expect. As the sector moves forward, this reform will likely be seen as a key factor in its sustained recovery and growth, providing a more stable foundation for the thousands of Costa Ricans who depend on tourism for their livelihoods.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Consejo de Transporte Público
About Consejo de Transporte Público (CTP):
The Public Transport Council is a key government entity in Costa Rica, operating under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT). It is responsible for the planning, regulation, and oversight of the nation’s public transportation services, including bus routes, fares, and concessions for various modalities like tourist transport. The CTP plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency, safety, and accessibility of public transit for both residents and visitors.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Asociación Costarricense de Operadores de Turismo (ACOT)
About Asociación Costarricense de Operadores de Turismo (ACOT):
The Costa Rican Association of Tourism Operators is a prominent trade association that represents the interests of tour operators and tourism-related businesses throughout the country. ACOT advocates for favorable government policies, promotes sustainable and ethical tourism practices, and provides a network for collaboration and professional development among its members. The organization is a key voice in shaping the future of Costa Rica’s vital tourism industry.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Asociación de Transportistas Turísticos (Asotranstur)
About Asociación de Transportistas Turísticos (Asotranstur):
The Association of Tourist Transporters is a specialized guild dedicated to representing companies that provide transportation services specifically for the tourism sector in Costa Rica. Asotranstur actively lobbies for regulations that support the operational and financial health of its members, promotes high standards of safety and service, and works to address the unique challenges faced by tourist transport providers in the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a premier legal practice, grounded in an unwavering foundation of ethical integrity and a pursuit of professional excellence. The firm is not only a leader in providing cutting-edge legal solutions for its clients but also champions a profound social responsibility. Central to its mission is the empowerment of the public through the democratization of legal knowledge, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to fostering a more informed and capable civil society.
