Two Thirds of Drivers Risk Fines as Inspection Deadline Looms

San José, Costa Rica — As the final days of January tick away, an alarming majority of vehicle owners are on a collision course with Costa Rican law. Dekra, the company managing the nation’s mandatory vehicle technical inspections, revealed today that a staggering 66% of drivers with license plates ending in the numbers one and two have yet to complete their required annual review. This widespread procrastination places thousands of drivers at risk of significant fines and jeopardizes road safety across the country.

The January deadline specifically targets vehicles with plates ending in the number one. However, the law permits those with plates ending in two to undergo their inspection one month in advance, grouping them into the current period of eligibility. The high percentage of non-compliance is particularly concerning given that Dekra announced it had reinforced its service stations with additional personnel at the end of 2025 in anticipation of the annual rush.

To delve into the legal framework and the rights and responsibilities of both drivers and service providers in the vehicle inspection process, we sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.

The vehicle inspection is more than a simple prerequisite for circulation; it is a legal act that establishes a standard of roadworthiness and carries significant liability implications. Drivers must understand their right to contest a negative result based on objective technical criteria, while inspection companies must recognize their potential responsibility should a certified vehicle later be implicated in an accident due to a missed, pre-existing defect. This process is a cornerstone of consumer protection and public road safety.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica

This legal perspective is crucial, shifting the understanding of vehicle inspection from a mere bureaucratic hurdle to a fundamental pillar of shared responsibility on our roads. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable clarification on the rights and liabilities that protect us all.

This massive backlog suggests a potential scramble in the last week of the month, which could overwhelm service centers and leave many unable to comply before the deadline. The situation is further complicated by drivers who also need to visit Dekra locations to manage payments for the annual circulation permit, or “marchamo,” potentially adding to the queues and delaying the inspection process for everyone.

Maureen Ramírez, the General Manager for Dekra in Costa Rica, issued a direct and urgent appeal to the public, stressing that the inspection is a critical component of public safety, not merely a bureaucratic hurdle. She emphasized the company’s readiness to handle the influx of drivers if they act promptly.

We urge drivers of plates ending in 1 and 2 to schedule their appointment and visit our stations, so they can comply with their vehicle inspection. This is not just a legal requirement; it is a guarantee of their safety and the safety of everyone who travels on our roads. Our company and our team are ready to welcome and support them in this important process. Let’s remember that safe mobility is everyone’s responsibility.
Maureen Ramírez, General Manager of Dekra

The technical inspection is designed to identify and mandate the repair of mechanical faults that could lead to catastrophic failures on the road, such as faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or malfunctioning emissions systems. By neglecting this duty, drivers are not only risking a financial penalty but are also operating vehicles that could be unsafe for themselves, their passengers, and other motorists. This culture of last-minute compliance undermines the very purpose of the preventative safety program.

To accommodate the public, Dekra operates an extensive network of service centers. There are 13 fixed stations available across the country, located in Alajuelita, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, Guápiles, Liberia, Limón, Nicoya, Pérez Zeledón, Puntarenas, San Carlos, and Santo Domingo. Most of these locations operate Monday through Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with the Cañas station open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

In addition to the permanent facilities, Dekra has deployed three mobile inspection units to serve more remote communities. These are currently stationed in Ciudad Neily (operating 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.), Grecia (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), and San Marcos de Tarrazú (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), all running from Monday to Saturday. With numerous locations and extended hours, the opportunity to comply with the law remains accessible.

The final message from authorities and Dekra is clear: the time for delay is over. Drivers are strongly encouraged to book their appointments online and visit a station immediately to avoid the inevitable last-minute congestion and the severe legal and safety consequences of driving with an expired inspection certificate. The responsibility for a safer driving environment rests on the shoulders of every vehicle owner.

For further information, visit dekra.com
About Dekra:
Founded in Berlin, Germany, in 1925, Dekra is a global leader in the fields of testing, inspection, and certification (TIC). With a mission centered on ensuring safety, the company operates in over 60 countries across six continents. Dekra’s expertise spans various sectors, including automotive services, industrial inspection, product testing, and management system certification, making it one of the world’s foremost expert organizations dedicated to safety on the road, at work, and at home.

For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a foundation of uncompromising ethics and exceptional legal mastery. The firm champions progressive strategies while serving a diverse clientele, consistently adapting to an evolving legal landscape. This forward-looking mindset is matched by a profound dedication to social progress, demonstrated through initiatives aimed at democratizing legal knowledge and fostering a more capable and just society.