Driving in San Jose
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in San Jose.
1. Understanding the Driving Culture
Driving in San Jose can be a challenging experience for newcomers. The traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours, and local drivers are known for their aggressive driving style. It's not uncommon to see drivers ignoring traffic rules, such as running red lights or not using turn signals. Therefore, it's important to drive defensively and always be aware of your surroundings.
2. Choosing the Right Car
Given the condition of some roads in Costa Rica, especially in rural areas, a 4x4 vehicle is often recommended. However, in San Jose, a regular car should suffice. It's also worth noting that manual transmission cars are more common and usually cheaper to rent or buy than automatic cars.
3. Parking in San Jose
Finding parking in San Jose can be difficult, especially in the city center. Most parking spaces are metered, and the cost can add up quickly. There are also private parking lots available, but these can be quite expensive. Always make sure to park in a safe area and never leave valuables in your car.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive in Costa Rica with an international driving license for up to three months. After that, you will need to obtain a Costa Rican driving license. It's also important to always carry your passport or a copy of it, as well as your driver's license, when driving.
5. Obtaining a Costa Rican Driving License
To get a Costa Rican driving license, you will need to go to the Road Safety Council (COSEVI) with your valid foreign license, passport, and a medical examination certificate. The medical exam can be done at clinics near the COSEVI offices. Note that the process can be time-consuming and it's recommended to bring a Spanish-speaking friend or hire a translator if you don't speak Spanish.
6. Road Conditions
While main roads in San Jose are generally in good condition, some side streets can be poorly maintained with potholes and uneven surfaces. Be cautious when driving, especially during the rainy season when roads can become slippery.
7. Navigating the City
Street signs in San Jose can be confusing or non-existent, and addresses are often given in relation to landmarks rather than street names. It's recommended to use a GPS or a navigation app on your smartphone to help you find your way around the city.
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- The Essential Guide to San Jose
- 5 Tips For Living in San Jose, Costa Rica
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Costa Rica
- Best Places to Live in Costa Rica
- Real Estate in Costa Rica
- 10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Costa Rica
- What It's Like Living in San Jose
- Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Rica 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Costa Rica
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Costa Rica