Driving in Costa Rica: licence, roads and tolls

A handful of tolls, a lot of gravel, and a rainy season that makes the vehicle choice matter.

• A 4x4 is worth it from May to November. The roads to Monteverde, the Osa peninsula and much of Nicoya are unpaved and cross fords that rise fast after rain.
• Tolls exist on the routes out of San Jose and are small; most of the network is free.
• A foreign licence is valid for 90 days alongside the passport stamp that proves the entry date.
• The alcohol limit is 0.05 % with heavy fines.
• Do not drive at night outside the towns. Unlit roads, no verges, and potholes that are invisible until they are under the wheel.