Costa Rica's vehicle technical inspection (RTV, done by DEKRA) costs ₡6,077 plus VAT for a private car, about ₡6,867, and a reinspection costs ₡4,745 plus VAT, about ₡5,362 (DEKRA rates in force since October 2026). Your month is set by the last digit of the plate: 1 is January, 2 is February, and so on up to 0 in October. Cars whose model year is five years old or newer go every two years; older cars go every year. You book at dekra.cr or on 4000-1100, and you only need your driver's license.

How much does the inspection cost in 2026?

These are DEKRA's published rates under Aresep resolution RE-0131-IT-2026 (official rate table). VAT is 13%:

  • Car or pickup under 3.5 tonnes: ₡6,077 + VAT (about ₡6,867). Reinspection: ₡4,745 + VAT (about ₡5,362).
  • Vehicle over 3.5 tonnes: ₡7,271 + VAT (about ₡8,216).
  • Motorcycle: ₡4,628 + VAT (about ₡5,230).
  • Electric or historic car: ₡4,765 + VAT (about ₡5,384).

You pay at the station on the day, in cash or by card.

When is my inspection due?

The month depends on the plate's last digit (DEKRA calendar): 1 January, 2 February, 3 March, 4 April, 5 May, 6 June, 7 July, 8 August, 9 September, 0 October. You can go from the month before. Under article 30 of Traffic Law 9078, private cars more than five years old go once a year, and cars five years old or newer once every two years.

How do I book an appointment?

Go to dekra.cr or call 4000-1100 and give the plate, vehicle type, station, date and time, your email and your phone. Bring a valid driver's license for that type of vehicle on the day.

What do they check?

Brakes, steering and suspension, lights, exhaust emissions, tires, body and glass, and that the plate, VIN and engine number match the records, following COSEVI's inspection manual. Each problem is rated minor or serious; with only minor ones, the car passes.

What if my car fails?

With a single serious fault you have one month to fix it and come back for a cheaper reinspection, also by appointment. With more than one serious fault, or after that month, you pay a full inspection again. Driving without a valid inspection is a category D fine, about ₡61,000 in 2026 according to the MOPT.

Why it matters when buying a used car

A valid inspection only says the car passed on that date. When you look at used cars in Costa Rica, ask for the last inspection card and report, check when the next one is due, and go through the used car checklist. You can also check the VIN for free.

Reviewed on November 5, 2026. Aresep adjusts the rates: confirm them at dekra.cr before you go.