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National · Costa Rica

Does National require an IDP in Costa Rica?

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Costa Rica lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for Costa Rica All National requirements
National in Costa Rica
National IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
National footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

National in Costa Rica: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.

Costa Rica drives on the right and lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence for up to 90 days; an IDP is advised for non-Latin scripts.

In Costa Rica specifically, costa Rica lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. Mandatory liability insurance is added at the desk; an IDP helps non-Latin scripts.

National runs a global network; at its Costa Rica desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Costa Rica drives on the right, uses the CRC, and sets a minimum driving age of 18; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the National counter in Costa Rica

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the CRC deposit; Costa Rica drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Costa Rica National renters should know

  • 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 rent from National in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the National desk in Costa Rica?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Costa Rica drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is National's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
All National countriesDriving in Costa Rica