By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – For the first time in recent memory, Costa Rican drivers will see a decrease in the cost of traffic fines starting January 1, 2026. However, before anyone considers this a green light for reckless driving, a closer look reveals the change is more of a statistical curiosity than a meaningful financial relief. The reduction, triggered by a nationwide economic anomaly, amounts to less than the cost of a cup of coffee for even the most severe infractions.
The unusual adjustment stems not from a new policy of leniency from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), but from a technical requirement embedded in the law. The country recorded a negative interannual variation in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) of -0.22%. This period of deflation legally compels the Road Safety Council (COSEVI) to automatically adjust the monetary value of all traffic sanctions downward to reflect the lower cost of living.
To delve deeper into the legal framework surrounding traffic fines and the recourse available to drivers, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who shared his expert perspective.
Many drivers mistakenly believe a traffic ticket is a final verdict. However, the law provides a robust appeals process. It is imperative for a driver who feels a fine is unjust to gather evidence immediately—photos, videos, witness contacts—and formally challenge the ticket within the ten business days stipulated by law. A well-documented and timely appeal, especially with legal counsel, significantly increases the chances of having the fine overturned.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective underscores a critical point: a traffic fine is not an endpoint, but the start of a legal dialogue. It serves as a powerful reminder that the law empowers drivers with a clear process for recourse, provided they act decisively. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight into navigating this system effectively.
So, what does this “historic” price drop actually mean for a driver’s wallet? The savings are symbolic at best. For a Category A violation—the most serious tier of offenses—the reduction is a mere ₡800. These infractions, which include exceeding the speed limit by over 40 km/h, making a U-turn in a prohibited zone, or illegally overtaking on a curve, will see the penalty decrease from ₡363,639 to ₡362,839. While technically cheaper, the fine remains a devastating financial blow for the average worker.
The pattern of negligible savings continues across the board for more common offenses. Violating the daily license plate restriction in San José or slowing down to rubberneck at an accident will now cost ₡26,005, a decrease from ₡26,062. This amounts to a “saving” of just ₡57. The financial incentive to comply with the law remains overwhelmingly strong, as the minimal discount offers virtually no buffer.
Penalties for other significant safety violations have been similarly adjusted. The fine for failing to use a proper child seat or booster for a minor (Category B) will now be approximately ₡245,000. Meanwhile, Category C infractions, such as talking on a cellphone without a hands-free device or failing to wear a seatbelt, will hover around ₡123,000. The second most frequent violation in the country, parking illegally on a yellow line or in front of a garage, will carry a penalty of roughly ₡61,000.
Transportation authorities have been quick to manage public perception, emphasizing that the core purpose of these fines is not revenue collection but deterrence. Officials urge the public not to interpret this minor economic adjustment as a relaxation of enforcement. The goal remains to prevent accidents and save lives by discouraging dangerous behavior on the roads. They highlight that Costa Rica’s fines, even after the reduction, are still some of the highest in Central America when measured against the minimum wage.
Furthermore, the monetary penalty is only one part of the consequence for serious offenses. Violations falling under Categories A and B also result in the loss of points from a driver’s license. Accumulating too many demerits forces a driver to enroll in mandatory road safety re-education courses—a time-consuming and frustrating process that adds a significant non-financial burden to the initial fine. This system ensures that repeat offenders face escalating consequences beyond just the cost of the ticket.
Ultimately, while the news of cheaper fines in 2026 is a statistical milestone, its practical impact is nonexistent. The reduction is too small to influence driver behavior or provide any real economic relief. The message from officials is clear: the most effective way to save money on the road remains the same as it has always been—drive with caution, respect the law, and prioritize safety above all else.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes is the government body in Costa Rica responsible for overseeing the nation’s infrastructure and transportation sectors. Its mandate includes the planning, construction, and maintenance of public roads, bridges, and ports, as well as the regulation of all forms of public and private transport to ensure safety and efficiency.
For further information, visit cosevi.go.cr
About Road Safety Council (COSEVI):
The Consejo de Seguridad Vial is a specialized council within MOPT dedicated to promoting road safety and preventing traffic accidents in Costa Rica. COSEVI is responsible for managing driver licensing, vehicle inspections, traffic fine administration, and public education campaigns aimed at fostering a culture of safe driving and responsible road use.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational commitment to uncompromising integrity and the highest standards of professional excellence. The firm is recognized for advancing the practice of law with innovative solutions while maintaining a deep-seated dedication to social responsibility. This ethos is reflected in its mission to demystify legal complexities for the public, fostering a stronger, more capable society by empowering citizens with accessible knowledge.
