2026 Traffic Fines in Costa Rica: These are the most expensive violations of the year
Starting January 1, 2026, the new amounts for traffic fines in Costa Rica will take effect, according to the official update carried out by the Judiciary in accordance with the Law on Traffic on Public Land Roads and Road Safety.
Although the changes for this year are relatively small, the sanctions continue to represent significant sums for any driver. A single violation can cost more than the annual marchamo for many vehicles.
Therefore, knowing the most common fines can help you protect your wallet and drive more safely.
The most expensive fines in 2026
Category B infractions maintain some of the highest financial penalties in the country, with fines close to ₡245,195. These include behaviors that represent significant risks to road safety.
Notable among them are:
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Disregarding a stop sign.
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Running a red light.
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Exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h.
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Driving with altered, fake, or license plates belonging to another vehicle.
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Transporting minors without the required safety devices.
Driving fast can be very expensive
One of the most frequent mistakes among drivers is exceeding speed limits.
In 2026, those who drive at more than 40 kilometers per hour over the permitted limit face a fine of approximately ₡245,195, in addition to other possible administrative consequences depending on the case.
Beyond the financial penalty, speeding remains one of the main factors associated with serious road accidents.
Watch out for priority spaces
Many drivers are unaware that using spaces reserved for people with disabilities, senior citizens, or pregnant women without authorization also generates a considerable sanction.
The fine for 2026 will be approximately ₡122,598.
What seems like a quick stop to some can end up costing more than one hundred thousand colones.
The most common fines we see every day
Category D sanctions will have a value of approximately ₡60,680 during 2026.
Some of the most frequent violations include:
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Disregarding traffic signs.
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Failing to respect right-of-way priorities.
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Driving incorrectly in a roundabout.
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Parking where it is not permitted.
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Ignoring instructions from the Traffic Police.
These are mistakes that many drivers observe daily and, although they seem minor, they can represent an unexpected expense.
Even small oversights cost money
Category E fines will have a value close to ₡26,006.
Among them are situations such as:
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Driving without carrying some required documents.
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Making incorrect overtakes.
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Invading horizontal signaling zones.
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Using loudspeakers during restricted hours or in restricted places.
Although they are the lowest fines in the system, they still represent a completely avoidable expense.
Why did the amounts change?
The Traffic Law establishes that amounts must be updated periodically taking into consideration the adjustments determined by the current regulations.
For 2026, the values experienced a variation of close to -0.22% compared to the amounts applied during 2025.
In other words, the fines decreased slightly, but they remain high enough to impact any family budget.
How to avoid fines in 2026
The best way to save money on the road remains quite simple:
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Observe the speed limits.
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Always use your seatbelt.
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Keep your documentation up to date.
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Respect traffic signs and signals.
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Avoid using priority spaces without authorization.
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Periodically check your vehicle's condition.
Most of the most common sanctions can be avoided with basic responsible driving habits.
An avoided fine is money you can invest in your vehicle
Drivers usually worry about the price of fuel, maintenance, or the marchamo, but a single violation can represent an expense equivalent to several months of fuel or a major repair.
Maintaining good driving habits not only improves road safety. It also protects your wallet.
In 2026, the best fine will still be the one you never receive.
