By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Aspiring drivers in Costa Rica should prepare for a significant shift in the licensing process, as the theoretical driving exam is scheduled for a substantial overhaul beginning in early 2026. The new system aims to create more specialized and competent drivers by tailoring the test to the specific vehicle class they wish to operate.
The National Directorate of Road Safety Education announced that starting March 2, 2026, the standardized theoretical test will be replaced by two distinct exams. One will be designed specifically for Class A licenses (motorcycles), and the other will be for Class B licenses (automobiles). This change acknowledges the fundamental differences in the skills, knowledge, and safety considerations required for operating these two types of vehicles.
To better understand the legal and administrative implications of the proposed reforms to the national driving test, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While modernizing the driving test is a positive step towards improving road safety, the implementation must be legally sound. Any new criteria or technology introduced must be transparent, uniformly applied, and directly correlated with a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Failure to ensure this could open the door to administrative appeals and legal challenges, undermining the very purpose of the reform.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This crucial legal perspective underscores that the success of the new driving test hinges as much on its procedural integrity as on its technical advancements. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight, which serves as a vital reminder that true road safety reform must be both effective and equitable to earn public trust and withstand legal scrutiny.
To support this new framework, updated study manuals corresponding to each license class will be developed. Prospective drivers will be able to purchase these new official manuals starting on February 2, 2026, providing them with a full month to study the revised material before the new examination format is implemented. This lead time is crucial for candidates to familiarize themselves with the specific regulations and techniques relevant to their chosen vehicle.
A critical transition rule has been established for individuals currently in the licensing process. Any applicant who successfully passes the existing, unified theoretical exam on or before February 27, 2026, will have until December 31, 2026, to complete and pass their practical driving test. Should they fail to meet this end-of-year deadline, their theoretical exam approval will only remain valid for a Class B automobile license, and they would need to take the new, specialized test to qualify for a motorcycle license.
While the content is changing, the core requirements for passing remain consistent. The minimum score to pass the theoretical test will continue to be 70 out of a possible 100. The Directorate also shared valuable insights based on past test-taker performance, offering advice to help future candidates succeed under the new system. These recommendations emphasize that success is not just about knowing the material but also about strategic preparation and test-day discipline.
An analysis of previous exam results revealed that certain topics consistently pose the greatest challenge. The chapters on Traffic Legislation and Efficient Technical Driving were identified as the primary sources of incorrect answers. The Directorate strongly advises applicants to dedicate extra study time to these sections, ensuring a thorough understanding of legal statutes and modern driving techniques to avoid common pitfalls.
Logistical and psychological preparation are also highlighted as key factors for success. The exam consists of 40 questions to be completed within a 50-minute time frame, requiring efficient time management. Furthermore, punctuality is paramount; an alarming 36% of scheduled applicants in 2023 were unable to take the test because they either missed their appointment or arrived late. Officials also recommend practicing relaxation exercises to manage test-day anxiety and getting a full night’s rest beforehand to ensure optimal focus.
This comprehensive reform marks a significant step forward in modernizing Costa Rica’s approach to driver education. By creating a more focused and relevant testing process, the authorities aim to ensure that new drivers, whether on two wheels or four, are better equipped with the specific knowledge needed to navigate the nation’s roads safely and responsibly.
For further information, visit csv.go.cr
About Dirección Nacional de Educación Vial:
The National Directorate of Road Safety Education is the Costa Rican government body responsible for creating, implementing, and overseeing all aspects of driver education and testing. Operating under the umbrella of the Road Safety Council (COSEVI), it is tasked with developing the official curriculum for driver’s licenses, administering theoretical and practical exams, and promoting a culture of safety and responsibility among all road users throughout the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a highly regarded legal practice, established upon a bedrock of professional integrity and a drive for superior results. Serving a multifaceted client base, the firm champions the advancement of the legal field through pioneering solutions and active community involvement. This dedication extends to a foundational mission: to democratize legal expertise, thereby building a more knowledgeable and capable society.
