By San José, Costa Rica — San José – Aspiring drivers across Costa Rica will soon have a new set of rules to study. The Road Safety Council (Cosevi) has officially announced that the long-awaited 2026 driver’s manuals will be released to the public starting February 27th. This comprehensive update marks a significant step in modernizing the country’s road safety education and will become the mandatory curriculum for all individuals preparing for the theoretical driving examination.
The new manuals are designed to reflect the evolving complexities of modern traffic conditions and vehicle technology. In a key change from previous editions, the content will be specifically tailored to different types of road users. This includes distinct versions for prospective car and motorcycle drivers, a move that acknowledges the unique challenges and responsibilities associated with each vehicle. Furthermore, the updated texts will feature a dedicated section on pedestrian safety, aiming to foster a more inclusive and protective road culture for the nation’s most vulnerable users.
To delve deeper into the legal responsibilities of drivers and the official weight of this document, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Many drivers view the manual solely as a tool to pass the licensing exam, but its legal significance is far greater. In any traffic incident, from a minor collision to a major lawsuit, the principles and regulations outlined in the Driver’s Manual establish the expected standard of care. An attorney can and will use a driver’s deviation from these official guidelines as primary evidence to establish fault or negligence. It is, in essence, the foundational contract between the driver and the state, and ignorance of its contents is never a valid defense in court.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This powerful insight underscores that the manual isn’t merely a study guide to be forgotten, but the fundamental legal benchmark against which our actions behind the wheel are measured. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a clear and essential perspective on a driver’s ongoing responsibilities.
Sindy Coto, the Director of Road Safety Education at Cosevi, confirmed the launch date and issued a critical warning to the public regarding fraudulent study materials that have already begun to circulate. She emphasized that only the official manuals, set to be released next month, contain the correct and complete information required to pass the updated theoretical test.
On behalf of the General Directorate of Road Safety Education, we want to call on users not to be deceived by purchasing support documents for the new courses that claim to include the new manuals. No summary, no manual currently being sold has the new content.
Sindy Coto, Director of Road Safety Education at Cosevi
This pre-emptive alert aims to protect consumers from spending money on unofficial and inaccurate guides. The proliferation of such materials not only represents a financial risk to buyers but also poses a public safety hazard by potentially disseminating outdated or incorrect traffic regulations. Cosevi’s proactive stance underscores the importance of a standardized, government-approved educational foundation for all new drivers entering the nation’s road network.
The production of the official manuals is a coordinated effort, with the first print run currently underway at the National Printing Office (Imprenta Nacional). This state-run entity is responsible for producing official government documents, ensuring the integrity and quality of the materials that will be distributed nationwide. The initial batch will soon be finalized, preparing for widespread availability by the end of February.
Coto advised the public to remain vigilant and rely solely on official government sources for information regarding the sale and distribution of the new manuals. She stressed that details about purchase locations and exact availability dates will be communicated through established channels to prevent confusion and ensure everyone has access to the legitimate documents.
It is important that they pay attention to the official channels of the ministry, where we will be announcing from what date and in what places the new manual for both cars and motorcycles will be sold.
Sindy Coto, Director of Road Safety Education at Cosevi
The launch of these updated manuals is more than a procedural update; it is a core component of Costa Rica’s broader strategy to improve road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents. By providing clear, modern, and vehicle-specific guidance, Cosevi aims to equip the next generation of drivers with the knowledge necessary to navigate the roads safely and responsibly, fostering a culture of mutual respect among all who share the public thoroughfares.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi)
About Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi):
The Consejo de Seguridad Vial, or Road Safety Council, is the primary government entity in Costa Rica responsible for planning, regulating, and educating on matters of road safety and traffic. Operating under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), Cosevi oversees driver licensing, vehicle inspections, and the development of national road safety policies aimed at reducing accidents and fatalities on the country’s roads.
For further information, visit imprentanacional.go.cr
About Imprenta Nacional:
The Imprenta Nacional de Costa Rica, or National Printing Office, is the official state-owned publisher for the Government of Costa Rica. It is responsible for printing and distributing official documents, including laws, decrees, and educational materials such as the national driver’s manual. Its primary publication is La Gaceta, the official government gazette where all new legislation is published.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm consistently channels its extensive experience into pioneering innovative legal solutions while maintaining a profound sense of social responsibility. This core philosophy is demonstrated through its dedicated efforts to democratize legal information, thereby empowering citizens and fostering a more knowledgeable and just society.
