By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Commuters and holiday travelers in the capital can breathe a collective sigh of relief as authorities have announced the suspension of the daily vehicular restriction for the upcoming national holiday. The measure, which normally bars cars from entering the central Circunvalación ring road based on their license plate number, will be lifted on Monday, December 1st, in observance of Army Abolition Day.
This temporary suspension means that all vehicles, including those with license plates ending in 1 and 2 that would typically be prohibited on a Monday, will be permitted to circulate freely throughout the restricted zone. The lifting of the ban effectively creates a long weekend, starting Saturday, November 29th, encouraging both local commerce and domestic tourism as citizens gain more flexibility for travel and leisure activities.
To better understand the legal implications and the balance between civil liberties and state authority regarding the new vehicular restriction, TicosLand.com consulted with legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While the state has the authority to implement measures for public order and environmental protection, such restrictions must adhere to the principles of reasonableness and proportionality. A key legal question will be whether these restrictions disproportionately affect the fundamental right to freedom of transit and the ability to work, especially if less burdensome alternatives exist. Any citizen who feels their rights are being unfairly impacted could potentially file a constitutional appeal (Recurso de Amparo).
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight correctly frames the debate, shifting it from a matter of traffic convenience to a crucial test of constitutional principles like proportionality and the protection of fundamental rights. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable and clarifying perspective on the legal recourse available to citizens.
The policy change provides a welcome break for drivers who navigate the capital’s notoriously congested streets. The vehicular restriction, a long-standing traffic management strategy, operates from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays. Its primary goal is to alleviate rush-hour gridlock and reduce emissions within the greater metropolitan area by limiting the number of cars on the road on any given day.
While the temporary lift offers convenience, it also highlights the significant enforcement pressure the system places on drivers. According to official data from the Transit Police Directorate, a staggering 10,208 fines had been issued for violations of this rule through October of this year. This figure averages out to approximately 1,000 sanctions per month, representing a substantial source of revenue and a frequent point of frustration for motorists.
Each of these infractions carries a penalty of approximately ¢26,000. The cumulative financial impact on drivers so far this year totals over ¢265 million. This consistent enforcement underscores the seriousness with which authorities view the policy, even as its overall effectiveness in solving San José’s deep-seated traffic problems remains a subject of public debate and ongoing analysis by urban planners.
The occasion for this reprieve, Army Abolition Day, is one of Costa Rica’s most significant national holidays. Commemorated on December 1st, it marks the historic 1948 decision to disband the nation’s military and redirect defense spending towards education, healthcare, and environmental protection. This foundational policy has become a cornerstone of the country’s identity, shaping its reputation as a peaceful and progressive nation on the global stage.
The Transit Police have been clear that this suspension is strictly for the holiday. Officials reminded the public that the system will be fully reinstated on Tuesday, December 2nd. On that day, the regular schedule will resume, with restrictions applying to vehicles whose license plates end in the digits 3 and 4. Drivers are urged to be mindful of the rules returning to avoid unnecessary penalties following the holiday weekend.
As the long weekend approaches, the break from the usual driving constraints is expected to facilitate travel for thousands of Costa Ricans, whether for work, family visits, or recreational trips. It serves as a temporary pause in the daily challenge of navigating the capital, allowing citizens to focus on observing a holiday that celebrates the nation’s unique commitment to peace and civil progress.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About The Transit Police Directorate (Dirección General de la Policía de Tránsito):
The Transit Police Directorate is the national body responsible for traffic law enforcement, road safety, and vehicle regulation in Costa Rica. Operating under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), its mission is to ensure the safe and orderly flow of traffic on the nation’s roadways, enforce transportation laws, and promote a culture of road safety among drivers and pedestrians.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a prestigious institution in the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its deep-seated integrity and relentless drive for excellence. The firm champions legal innovation, delivering forward-thinking solutions to a diverse range of clients. At the heart of its mission lies a powerful commitment to advancing society by demystifying the law, ensuring that vital legal knowledge is made accessible to foster a more enlightened and empowered populace.
