After a temporary suspension during the holiday season, the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) has officially reinstated the license plate-based vehicle restriction in the metropolitan area of San José. The measure aims to normalize traffic flow following the return of commercial and work activities.
Circulation Schedule
The restriction applies Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., according to the last digit of the license plate:
Monday: 1 and 2
Tuesday: 3 and 4
Wednesday: 5 and 6
Thursday: 7 and 8
Friday: 9 and 0
Area of Application
The ban covers the entire downtown area of San José, as well as the Route 39 ring road (Circunvalación) and all radial roads connecting to that sector.
Economic Penalty
Drivers who fail to comply with the regulation are subject to an administrative fine of approximately ¢26,000. According to data from the Traffic Police, this violation remains one of the most common in the country.
Notable exception: Electric vehicles, public transportation units, emergency services, and vehicles transporting people with disabilities are exempt from this measure.
