Obtaining or Renewing a Driver's License (COSEVI)

The driver's license in Costa Rica is issued by the Consejo de Seguridad Vial (COSEVI), an agency attached to the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT). The process includes a medical exam, a theoretical exam, and a practical exam.

Requisitos generales:

• Valid and good condition identification document (ID card, DIMEX, or passport as applicable).
• Digital medical certificate valid for 180 days, issued by a doctor authorized by COSEVI.
• Pass the theoretical exam: taken on a computer at COSEVI facilities or authorized centers, with 40 questions based on the current Driver's Manual. The minimum passing score is 70 (28 out of 40 correct).
• Pass the practical driving exam, as the final step.
• Proof of payment for the process.

Edad mínima según tipo de licencia:

• 18 years for most categories (e.g., B1, the most common light vehicle license).
• 16 years for category A1 (low‑displacement motorcycles).
• 20 years for category B2.
• 22 years for categories B3 and B4 (heavy/​cargo vehicles).

Renovación: you can renew the license before or after its expiration; if it has been expired for a long time, COSEVI may require you to retake exams. The exact grace period has not been confirmed, and in this particular case, it is recommended to consult directly at csv.go.cr.

Nota: due to technical issues, updated information on the cost of the process or the full list of COSEVI‑authorized medical centers cannot be provided. It is recommended to consult the official COSEVI website for up‑to‑date and accurate information.