Digital Marchamo in Costa Rica: everything you need to know about the new system
Costa Rica will take a significant step toward digitalization with the arrival of the Digital Marchamo, a new system that will simplify the process of paying the circulation right for millions of drivers.
Starting with the 2027 marchamo collection, vehicle owners will no longer have to replace the traditional sticker every year. Instead, a smart tag with a validity of up to 10 years will be used, while the marchamo payment will continue to be made annually.
What is the Digital Marchamo?
The Digital Marchamo is a new method implemented by the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS) that will replace the traditional sticker with a smart electronic tag (RFID) placed on the vehicle's windshield.
This tag will store basic vehicle information, such as the license plate and the identification number (VIN), but it will not function as a GPS nor will it allow tracking the driver's location.
How long will the new tag last?
One of the main changes is that the new tag will have an approximate lifespan of 10 years for cars, buses, and trucks.
This means it will no longer be necessary to remove and apply a new adhesive every December, as is currently the case.
Will I continue to pay the marchamo every year?
Yes.
The marchamo payment will continue to be annual, as it includes the Compulsory Automobile Insurance (SOA), taxes, and other charges established by Costa Rican legislation.
What changes is that you will no longer have to change the sticker every year. Once the smart tag is installed, making the annual payment will be enough to keep the circulation right valid.
How will the payment work?
The process will be much simpler.
Each year you will be able to:
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Check the marchamo amount.
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Make the payment online or through authorized channels.
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Receive the proof of payment in digital format.
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Keep the same tag installed on the vehicle for several years.
Will I have to go to the INS every year?
No.
During the first year of implementation, it will be necessary to pick up and install the new smart tag.
After that, it will no longer be necessary to go every year solely to change the sticker, provided the tag remains in good condition.
What technology does it use?
The new tag uses passive RFID technology.
This means that:
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It has no battery.
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It does not transmit information constantly.
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It does not allow tracking individuals.
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It can only be read by authorized equipment when necessary.
Benefits of the new Digital Marchamo
Among the main advantages are:
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Fewer in-person procedures.
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Faster payment via the Internet.
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Elimination of the annual sticker change.
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Reduction in paper use.
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Greater modernization of the process.
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Increased convenience for vehicle owners.
When will it begin?
The Instituto Nacional de Seguros reported that the new system will begin with the 2027 marchamo collection, which will start in November 2026.
During the first year, the new smart tag will be delivered, and in the following years, it will only be necessary to make the annual payment to keep the circulation right valid.
Conclusion
The Digital Marchamo represents one of the most significant changes in the administration of the circulation right in Costa Rica in recent years.
Although the payment will still be made every year, the new long-lasting smart tag will reduce paperwork, facilitate the process for drivers, and allow for more modern and efficient management.
Before renewing your marchamo, remember to keep your vehicle in good condition. At PuraCars you can find mechanic shops, lube centers, automotive electricians, and specialists throughout Costa Rica to prepare your vehicle before the technical inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Digital Marchamo?
It is a new system that will replace the traditional sticker with a smart tag using RFID technology and a lifespan of approximately 10 years.
Will I still pay the marchamo every year?
Yes. The right of circulation will continue to be paid annually; what changes is that the tag will no longer need to be replaced every year.
Will the new tag allow my vehicle to be tracked?
No. The INS has indicated that it uses passive RFID technology and does not function as a GPS.
How long will the new tag last?
The tag will have a lifespan of approximately 10 years for most vehicles with windshields.
When will the Digital Marchamo begin?
The system will begin with the collection of the 2027 marchamo, a process that will start in November 2026.
