Cross-border route
Panama Costa Rica
Panama 
Costa RicaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Panama into Costa Rica, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. An IDP is recommended in Costa Rica 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
FromPanama
ToCosta Rica
IDP in Costa RicaRecommended
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in Costa RicaCRC
Panama → Costa Rica
Crossing the border
The Paso Canoas crossing is the main Pan-American Highway route between the two.
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.
What to see when you arrive in Costa Rica
- the Arenal Volcano
- the Monteverde Cloud Forest
- the Manuel Antonio National Park
- the beaches of Guanacaste
- the Tortuguero canals
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Panama to Costa Rica?
An IDP is strongly recommended for Costa Rica and required if your national licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet. Costa Rica recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Panama and Costa Rica?
No. Both Panama and Costa Rica 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.
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