How to Buy a Used Car in Costa Rica as a Foreigner: Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a used car is one of the first big decisions most expats face after moving to Costa Rica. The process is different from the US, Canada or Europe: transfers are done through a notary, debts can follow the car to the new owner, and prices are higher than many newcomers expect. This step-by-step guide explains exactly how to buy a used car in Costa Rica as a foreigner, safely and without surprises.
Can a Foreigner Buy a Car in Costa Rica?
Yes. You don't need to be a resident to own a vehicle in Costa Rica. Tourists can buy a car with their passport, and residents use their DIMEX card. The car is registered in your name at the Registro Nacional (National Registry), just like it would be for a Costa Rican citizen.
Step 1: Set a Realistic Budget
Because of high import taxes, used cars in Costa Rica usually cost more than the same model back home, and they hold their value well. When you plan your budget, include more than the price of the car:
Transfer taxes and notary fees (ask for a full quote before you agree on a price)
The marchamo, the annual circulation tax that includes basic mandatory insurance
Additional insurance, since the basic coverage is very limited
A pre-purchase mechanical inspection and any immediate repairs
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Car
Where you live matters more than anything else. A compact car works well in the Central Valley, but many beach and mountain communities have gravel roads, steep hills and river crossings in rainy season, where a 4x4 or a high-clearance SUV makes life much easier. Think about your daily routes, family size and how often you'll travel around the country.
Step 3: Find the Car
You can buy from dealers (agencias), private sellers or online marketplaces. Private sales are often cheaper but carry more risk, especially if you don't speak Spanish or don't know the market. Compare several options of the same model and year before deciding, and never feel pressured to close the same day.
Want to see what's on the market right now? Browse our used cars for sale in Costa Rica.
Step 4: Check the Paperwork Before You Pay
This is the most important step. In Costa Rica, liens and unpaid fines stay with the car, so they become your problem after the transfer.
Registry search: check the plate at the Registro Nacional (rnpdigital.com) to confirm the owner's name and that there are no liens (gravámenes) or legal annotations.
Traffic fines: check for pending tickets with COSEVI.
Marchamo: confirm it's paid for the current year.
Technical inspection: make sure the vehicle inspection sticker (RTV, done by Dekra) is valid.
VIN and engine numbers: they must match the registry and the title.
Step 5: Get an Independent Mechanical Inspection
Always have a trusted mechanic, not the seller's, inspect the car before you commit. Look for rust, signs of flood damage, suspension wear from rough roads, and inconsistencies in the mileage. A seller who refuses an independent inspection is a red flag.
Step 6: Close the Deal With a Notary
Vehicle transfers in Costa Rica are done through a notary public, who prepares the transfer deed (traspaso) and files it with the Registro Nacional. Buyer and seller sign in front of the notary. Don't pay the full amount until the documents are signed, and keep copies of everything. Once the registry processes the transfer, you receive the new ownership certificate in your name.
Step 7: After You Buy
Insurance: consider extra coverage on top of the basic mandatory insurance included in the marchamo.
Marchamo: renew it every year before December 31.
Technical inspection: keep it up to date according to your vehicle's schedule.
Driver's license: tourists can drive with a valid foreign license for as long as their passport entry stamp allows (up to 180 days); residents need to convert it to a Costa Rican license.
Tip: before your first road trip, read our guide Waze vs Google Maps in Costa Rica to set up your navigation the right way.
Let CarHuntersCR Find Your Car
Buying a car in a new country, in a new language, is stressful. CarHuntersCR is a car finding service for expats and newcomers: we search the market for you, check the registry and the paperwork, coordinate the inspection and guide you through the notary transfer, so you get the right car at a fair price.
Ready to find your car in Costa Rica?
✅ Title transfer included · English-speaking team · Trusted since 2012
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