Driving in Costa Rica
Vehicle Import Duties
By Staff
Jan 2, 2006, 10:51

Currently the import cost on a car from new to 3 years old is 52.29 % of its value.  A used car from 4 to 5 years old has import duties of 63.91 %, and a car over 5 years old 79.03 %. 

 The government sets the value of the car for tax purposes.  The value placed on an older car  has nothing to do with the condition of the car, only the year, make, model, engine and accessories. 

It is, therefore, not wise to import a vehicle that is not in excellent condition.  The formula to calculate the exact value is complicated, so it is best to get a quotation in advance of importing.