Covid cases force renewed Costa Rica driving restrictions

Costa Rica responds to a coronavirus spike.

The spike in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations has led the Costa Rican government to reinstate weekend driving restrictions.

Starting this Saturday, April 17 and until further notice:

• Vehicles with license plates ending in 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 can circulate on Saturdays. Odd plates cannot circulate, with exceptions.

• Vehicles with license plates ending in 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9 can circulate on Sundays. Even plates cannot circulate, with exceptions.

Transit police in Costa Rica. Photo for illustrative purposes.

A statement from the Presidency said the driving restrictions are an “essential” response to slow the spread of Covid-19 and preserve hospital capacity.

“We note with great concern the sustained increase in cases every day, in addition to the growth in deaths,” said Health Minister Daniel Salas.

“This leads us to take an immediate measure, the plate restriction on weekends, as it is a measure that has statistically shown to have strength and an important impact on mobilization and infections.”

Typical exceptions to these driving restrictions still apply. They include: Rental cars, people driving to/from hotels, and people driving to/from the airport. Through these exceptions, the measures aim to have a minimal impact on tourism.

The complete list of exceptions can be found here. The government site with all of Costa Rica’s restrictions is here.

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