Cross-border route
Costa Rica Panama
Costa Rica 
PanamaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Costa Rica into Panama, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. An IDP is recommended in Panama and required if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Paso Canoas crossing is the main Pan-American Highway route between the two.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromCosta Rica
ToPanama
IDP in PanamaRecommended
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in PanamaPAB
Costa Rica → Panama
Crossing the border
The Paso Canoas crossing is the main Pan-American Highway route between the two.
Driving rules in Panama
- Drive on the right.
- Heavy congestion in Panama City.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Corredor toll expressways in the capital.
What to see when you arrive in Panama
- the Panama Canal
- the old quarter (Casco Viejo) of Panama City
- the San Blas Islands
- the highlands of Boquete
- the Bocas del Toro archipelago
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Costa Rica to Panama?
An IDP is strongly recommended for Panama and required if your national licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet. Panama recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Costa Rica and Panama?
No. Both Costa Rica and Panama drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
100% money-back guarantee
Full refund if your permit is ever declined.
Unlimited replacements
Lost or damaged? Re-download or reprint, free.
24/7 support
Help before and during your trip, any hour.