La Venta Tica › Practical guides

Buying a used car in Costa Rica: Dekra, marchamo and transfer

In the south, a good 4x4 is almost essential. Before you pay, a few simple checks avoid most scams and bad surprises.

1. Check the plate at the National Registry

With the plate number you can check at the National Registry (rnpdigital.com) who the registered owner is and whether the vehicle has liens (prenda, embargo) or annotations. The seller must be the owner on record, or hold a notarized power of attorney.

Also check for unpaid traffic fines (COSEVI): fines follow the vehicle.

2. Check the Dekra (RTV) and the marchamo

The vehicle technical inspection (RTV), done by Dekra, is mandatory. Ask for the latest report: it lists the defects found. The marchamo is the mandatory annual tax and insurance, paid before December 31. A vehicle without a valid marchamo or RTV cannot be driven.

On La Venta Tica we require a photo of the Dekra and the marchamo for cars, 4x4s, motorbikes and ATVs, and our moderator checks they match the listing.

3. Have the vehicle inspected

Take the car to a mechanic you trust before buying: chassis (rust from humidity and the sea), suspension, 4x4 system, leaks. Compare the VIN on the vehicle with the documents.

4. Transfer before a notary

The sale is signed before a notary, who registers the transfer at the National Registry. The transfer tax is about 2.5% of the vehicle’s tax value, plus stamps and fees. Foreigners can buy and register a vehicle in their own name.

5. Pay safely

Never send a deposit to "reserve" a car you have not seen. Pay on the day of the transfer, ideally by bank transfer or SINPE with a receipt.

Browse vehicles for sale in Vehicles or sell your car: Post a listing.

General information, not legal advice. Always check with a Costa Rican lawyer or notary.

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