RTV and the 2027 marchamo: what you need to pay and to drive
Whether you need the vehicle inspection to pay the 2027 marchamo, what the RTV checks, what to bring and how the new digital marchamo sticker works.
To drive in Costa Rica the marchamo isn't enough: the vehicle also needs an up-to-date vehicle inspection (RTV, revisión técnica vehicular). And this year, with the new digital marchamo, it helps to be clear on what's required to pay and what you get.
Do I need the RTV to pay the 2027 marchamo?
According to El Financiero and La República, paying the 2027 marchamo requires the plate number and an approved, current vehicle inspection; without a current RTV the payment can't be completed. Some guides online say you can pay and collect the sticker later, but no official source confirms that. If your RTV has expired or is about to, book the inspection first and pay the marchamo after.
What does the RTV check?
The inspection checks brakes, suspension, steering, lights, tires, exhaust emissions and seat belts, among other things. If the vehicle fails, you get a deadline to fix the defects and return for reinspection.
Before you go
- Book ahead: appointments fill up in November and December.
- Check lights, turn signals, wipers, tires and brakes before you go; they're the most common failures.
- Bring your ID and the vehicle's documents.
The 2027 digital marchamo
- No more paper receipt: the marchamo document is emailed to the address you register when paying. If it doesn't arrive, you can download it from the INS website or the INS Móvil app.
- Windshield sticker: vehicles with a windshield get a digital sticker that, according to the INS, can last up to 10 years if it stays properly installed. The marchamo payment is still yearly.
- It isn't a GPS: the INS clarified the sticker can't locate or track the vehicle. If it's peeled off, it stops working.
- Motorcycles: keep the traditional marchamo for now.
More about the marchamo: look up the amount by plate, pay in interest-free installments and what happens if you pay late.
This article is for information only. Current requirements are the ones set by the INS and the inspection company; if in doubt, check with them before paying.