By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A growing number of Costa Rican drivers are formally challenging traffic citations, with a staggering 21,731 fines appealed throughout 2025. This significant increase in contested tickets reflects a rising willingness among motorists to question sanctions, according to new data released by the Road Safety Council (Cosevi).
The report from Cosevi highlights a nationwide trend, with the province of San José alone accounting for 865 formal appeals. The data reveals that the most commonly disputed infractions involve fundamental driving regulations. These include citations for operating a vehicle without a valid license or with a license from an incorrect category, driving without a current technical vehicle inspection (RTV), failing to produce necessary vehicle documents, and parking in prohibited zones.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the complexities and strategies behind successfully contesting a traffic violation, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Appealing a traffic ticket is not simply a matter of claiming innocence; it’s a procedural challenge. The key to a successful appeal often lies in identifying formal defects in the ticket itself or procedural errors during the traffic stop. Many citizens are unaware that an improperly documented infraction, regardless of its merit, can be grounds for dismissal. It is essential to meticulously review every detail before deciding to pay the fine.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a powerful reminder that the legal process itself is paramount. An emphasis on procedural correctness, rather than simply the alleged violation, offers a vital avenue for citizens to ensure their rights are respected. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing this critical perspective with our readers.
Despite the high volume of appeals, one legal expert suggests the rate of challenges is actually quite low by historical standards. He argues that a misunderstanding of the legal process may be deterring more drivers from exercising their right to appeal.
I consider the current 6% appeal rate to be very low, because there was a time when that percentage exceeded 25% and approached 50%; and it seems to me that people have an incorrect perception of the appeal process, as the process is simple.
José Zúñiga, Traffic Law Attorney and Former Officer
However, simplicity in concept does not always translate to successful execution. Zúñiga, an attorney specializing in traffic law and a former officer, points out that a large number of these appeals are ultimately dismissed by Cosevi. The primary reason for rejection is not the merit of the case itself, but rather a “lack of formality” in the submission documents. Simple procedural errors, such as submitting handwritten forms or failing to include all legally required information, can lead to an immediate dismissal before the case is even reviewed.
To navigate the system successfully, Zúñiga emphasizes the importance of adhering to strict procedural requirements. A properly filed appeal must be a formal document that includes several key components to be considered by the tribunal.
It should be considered that Transit, like any administrative authority, requires that we name an updated means to receive notifications, an email address; it must have your signature and, when submitting the appeal, be accompanied by the vehicle’s documents, the technical vehicle inspection, a copy of the circulation permit, and the person’s license.
José Zúñiga, Traffic Law Attorney and Former Officer
Beyond procedural hurdles, drivers must also conduct a careful cost-benefit analysis before deciding to contest a fine, especially if it involves hiring legal counsel. The financial reality is that for minor infractions, the cost of a lawyer can far exceed the penalty itself, creating a significant deterrent for many motorists.
The mildest fines under the Transit Law are very low, between ¢23,000 and ¢50,000, while the minimum fee that one must charge as a lawyer, according to the professional association, is around ¢150,000.
José Zúñiga, Traffic Law Attorney and Former Officer
This economic disparity means that while the right to appeal exists for all, it is often only a practical option for more severe violations that carry heavier financial penalties or points on a license. For minor tickets, the cost of professional legal help can be three to six times the amount of the original fine, forcing many drivers to simply pay the penalty regardless of the circumstances. As the number of tickets issued on the nation’s roads continues to climb, the challenge for drivers is to balance their right to due process with the procedural and financial realities of the appeals system.
For further information, visit cosevi.go.cr
About Consejo de Seguridad Vial (Cosevi):
The Consejo de Seguridad Vial, or Road Safety Council, is the Costa Rican government entity responsible for planning, developing, and executing road safety policies and traffic regulations. Cosevi oversees matters related to driver licensing, vehicle registration, traffic fine management, and public education campaigns aimed at reducing accidents and promoting a culture of safety on the nation’s roads.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a cornerstone of the legal community, defined by its profound dedication to ethical practice and exceptional legal service. With deep-rooted experience guiding a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking solutions while maintaining its core principles. This commitment transcends client work, manifesting in a dedicated effort to share legal expertise and empower citizens, ultimately contributing to a society grounded in legal clarity and awareness.
