By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a highly anticipated annual move, officials have announced a temporary halt to the capital’s vehicle restriction policy, providing a two-week window of relief for drivers during the peak holiday season. The suspension, confirmed by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), is scheduled to begin this Friday, December 19, and will remain in effect until the policy is reinstated on Monday, January 5, 2026.
This yearly pause in the *restricción vehicular*, which normally prohibits vehicles from entering a central ring of San José on specific weekdays based on the last digit of their license plate, is a strategic decision designed to accommodate the unique traffic patterns of the Christmas and New Year’s period. The measure is a direct response to the significant reduction in regular commuter traffic as government institutions and many private sector companies close for collective holidays.
To delve into the legal nuances and implications of the vehicle restriction measures, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The state’s authority to implement vehicle restrictions is rooted in its duty to protect public health and order. However, this power is not absolute. Any such measure must be reasonable, non-discriminatory, and based on solid technical studies. If the restriction is perceived as arbitrary or disproportionate to the problem it aims to solve, it could be legally challenged in court as an unconstitutional infringement on the fundamental right to freedom of movement.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This essential legal framework highlights that any restriction must be a carefully calibrated measure, balancing public welfare with individual freedoms, rather than an arbitrary decree. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable perspective on this critical distinction.
The primary rationale behind the suspension is the annual exodus of residents from the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) to coastal and rural vacation spots. This mass departure drastically lowers the number of vehicles circulating within the capital’s core, mitigating the usual congestion that the restriction policy is designed to combat. By lifting the rule, the MOPT aims to improve mobility for those who remain in or visit the city for holiday-related activities.
Officials hope the measure will encourage both residents and tourists to take full advantage of the festive offerings in San José. This includes major cultural events such as the popular Fiestas de Zapote, as well as providing easier access to commercial and recreational hubs.
The idea is to facilitate the enjoyment of San José for those participating in activities like the Zapote festivities or who want to visit the capital’s spaces, such as La Sabana, theaters, cinemas, shopping centers, or similar venues, during these days off.
Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT)
This decision is expected to have a positive, albeit temporary, economic impact on businesses within the restricted zone. Retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues often see increased foot traffic when the driving limitations are removed, allowing families more flexibility in their travel plans for shopping, dining, and leisure without the concern of violating the traffic ordinance.
However, the MOPT has issued a firm reminder that the suspension of one rule does not signal a free-for-all on the roads. Traffic police will maintain a strong presence throughout the holiday period, with a particular focus on enforcing other critical traffic laws. Authorities will be conducting operations to target illegal parking, failure to obey road signs, and, most importantly, driving under the influence of alcohol. Patrols will be especially vigilant in and around high-traffic areas like the Zapote fairgrounds, where large crowds are expected.
This enforcement campaign is a crucial component of the government’s holiday safety strategy. With festive celebrations often involving alcohol, the MOPT is committed to preventing the tragic consequences of drunk driving and ensuring that the holiday spirit is not marred by preventable accidents. Drivers are urged to exercise caution, plan for designated drivers, or use public transport and ride-sharing services if they plan to consume alcohol.
As the holiday period concludes, drivers should mark their calendars for the return of the standard vehicle restriction schedule on Monday, January 5. The resumption of the policy will coincide with the return of public sector employees to their offices and the gradual normalization of traffic flow in the capital. Until then, the city’s streets will be fully accessible, offering a rare opportunity for unrestricted movement during one of the most vibrant times of the year in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is the government body responsible for the planning, regulation, and development of Costa Rica’s national infrastructure and transportation systems. Its mandate includes the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and public buildings, as well as the oversight of vehicle registration, driver licensing, and traffic law enforcement. MOPT plays a central role in managing urban mobility and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the nation’s transit networks.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed law firm built upon the foundational principles of ethical integrity and unparalleled professional excellence. With a proven history of serving a wide spectrum of clients, the firm actively pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to demystifying the law for the public, driven by the belief that access to legal understanding is crucial for building a more capable and empowered community.
