More than 1,400 people have been arrested for drunk driving in Costa Rica this year, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT).

As of November, traffic police had administered nearly 4,000 breathalyzer tests nationwide, resulting in 1,433 arrests. Those drivers recorded blood alcohol concentrations above 0.75 grams, which qualifies as a Level A offense under Costa Rican law.

Penalties for the violation are severe. Each driver faces a fine of about $730, receives six points on their license and has their vehicle impounded at the time of arrest.

Under current regulations, accumulating six points triggers an automatic license suspension. To regain driving privileges, offenders must complete a mandatory driving course and pass a renewal exam with a minimum score of 70 out of 100.

 

In addition to the arrests, authorities fined more than 200 drivers whose blood alcohol levels measured between 0.20 and 0.75 grams. Although they were not taken into custody, they received the same $730 fine and six penalty points.

Another 100 drivers tested positive for minimal alcohol levels and were not penalized.

Police also recorded about 50 cases in which drivers refused to take a breathalyzer test. Those individuals were taken to a police station for mandatory testing.

In 2024, authorities identified more than 1,700 drunk drivers in Costa Rica.

Traffic deaths remain a major concern. Officials reported nearly 500 roadway fatalities so far this year, with motorcyclists accounting for 52% of those deaths.

Overall, Costa Rica recorded more than 500 traffic-related fatalities in 2024, and motorcyclists made up 53% of the total.

The police launched its “Safe Holidays Police Operation,” a nationwide security effort aimed at increasing surveillance during the Christmas and New Year season.

Authorities are urging the public to report suspected drunk drivers by calling 9-1-1.

MOPT oversees Costa Rica’s roadways, airports, maritime ports and public transportation regulations.