Weekday driving restrictions in the capital resumed Monday after the end of the country's mid-year school vacation, the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) announced.

The restrictions had been temporarily suspended during the two-week school break because traffic volumes in San José were significantly lower. Transportation officials said the measure helped ease congestion throughout the capital while schools were closed.

More than 1 million students enrolled in over 5,000 public elementary and high schools across Costa Rica returned to classrooms Monday as the second half of the 2026 school year began.

The weekday driving restrictions apply along Route 39, commonly known as Circunvalación, the highway that encircles San José.

Under the program, vehicle circulation is restricted from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. based on the last digit of a vehicle's license plate:

• Monday: Plates ending in 1 or 2.

• Tuesday: Plates ending in 3 or 4.

• Wednesday: Plates ending in 5 or 6.

• Thursday: Plates ending in 7 or 8.

• Friday: Plates ending in 9 or 0.

No driving restrictions are in effect on Saturdays or Sundays.


Drivers who violate the restrictions face a fine of approximately $60.


Authorities urged motorists to obey traffic laws and report dangerous driving to the 911 emergency hotline.


The MOPT is responsible for enforcing traffic regulations and promoting road safety throughout Costa Rica.

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