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UK licence Costa Rica

Driving in Costa Rica with a UK license

IDP Recommended

An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for UK licence holders driving in Costa Rica. Your UK licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.

Convention basisCosta Rica recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention. We issue the permit in that exact format.
At the rental deskMandatory liability insurance is added at the desk; an IDP helps non-Latin scripts.
CarryCarry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
Minimum age18+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25
Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)
FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits
Last verified June 2026Convention: 1949 Geneva
Get my IDP for Costa Rica Full Costa Rica guide

UK drivers should carry an International Driving Permit with their licence; some countries recognise the 1949 version and others the 1968 version. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the 1949 Geneva format and carried alongside your national licence.

Driving rules in Costa Rica

  • Drive on the right.
  • Mandatory state liability insurance on rentals.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit.
  • 4x4 advised for rural and rainy-season roads.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to drive in Costa Rica with a UK license?
An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for UK licence holders driving in Costa Rica. Your UK licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.
02
What IDP format does Costa Rica accept?
Costa Rica recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention. We issue the permit in that exact format.
03
Do I still carry my UK license?
Carry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
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