Car Insurance in Costa Rica

By nouman September 14, 2020

Reliable Auto Protection From a Trusted Expat-Focused Insurance Team

Driving in Costa Rica offers freedom, flexibility, and the chance to explore one of the most beautiful countries in the world — but it also brings responsibilities. Whether you’re commuting daily, traveling across provinces, or renting your vehicle to visitors, having the right car insurance is essential for legal compliance, financial protection, and peace of mind.
At All Insurance CR, we make it simple for expats and residents to secure the right auto insurance coverage quickly and confidently. For more than 15 years, our team has been helping people protect their vehicles with policies tailored to Costa Rica’s unique road conditions, driver requirements, and insurance regulations. And unlike a typical car insurance company, we act as your advisor and advocate — comparing policies, explaining your options clearly, and supporting you long after your policy begins.
Our clients overwhelmingly come from referrals because of our reputation for responsiveness, expertise, and genuine care. Phil and his team have built a long-standing, highly trusted operation where specialists like Michelle — with over 10 years dedicated to auto insurance — handle your needs with speed and accuracy.
With All Insurance CR, you get more than a policy — you get a reliable partner.

Why Car Insurance Matters in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s insurance system differs significantly from what most U.S. and Canadian expats are used to. While the country offers beautiful scenery and relatively safe conditions, road infrastructure can be unpredictable, traffic laws vary, and liability requirements for drivers are strict.
Key reasons you need proper vehicle insurance include:
  • Mandatory Basic Liability (Marchamo) is required for all vehicles, but it provides minimal protection.
  • Private auto insurance covers collision, theft, vandalism, natural events, legal liability, and more.
  • Many expats are surprised by the costs and gaps in basic state coverage.
  • Without the right policy, even minor accidents can result in costly claims, legal processes, and vehicle downtime.
  • Costa Rica has unique rules around fault, police reporting, and claims — making good guidance invaluable.
We simplify that entire landscape so you always know exactly what you’re covered for, how your policy works, and what to do in an emergency.

Why Choose All Insurance CR as Your Car Insurance Provider?

1. Expat-Friendly Explanations With Local Expertise

Understanding car insurance in Costa Rica can be confusing without the right guide. As an expat serving expats, Phil built All Insurance CR to bridge that gap. You get clear, straightforward explanations of:
• Liability requirements
• What basic vs. full coverage includes
• Deductible options
• Glass, collision, and theft protections
• Roadside assistance
• How claims work here compared to the U.S. or Canada
Clients appreciate that they’re not just buying a policy — they’re getting someone who speaks their language, both literally and culturally, and who understands precisely what expats worry about most.

2. A Dedicated Auto Insurance Specialist (10+ Years Experience)

Auto insurance isn’t an afterthought in our agency — it’s a core service area handled by a seasoned professional. Phil notes that Michelle has been with the company for more than a decade, managing nearly all auto insurance requests with unmatched speed, knowledge, and client care.
Her expertise includes:
• Fast, accurate quotes
• Policy comparisons
• Renewals and updates
• Support during accidents and claims
• Communicating with insurers on your behalf
This depth of experience is rare and is a major reason All Insurance CR retains clients year after year.

3. Access to Multiple Car Insurance Companies

Instead of selling one company’s product, we compare plans from several reliable insurers — giving you far more flexibility than working with a single car insurance company. You benefit from:
• Better pricing
• More deductible choices
• Optional add-ons (e.g., roadside assistance, windshield coverage)
• Stronger protections
• Clear explanations of differences
The result: the best car insurance rates for your specific needs.

4. Fast, Responsive Service When You Need It Most

As Phil emphasizes, the agency’s success comes from extreme responsiveness — something many competitors cannot match. Clients regularly comment that the team answers quickly, even outside normal hours, and provides step-by-step support during stressful moments.
Whether you:
• need a quick quote,
• have a question about your policy, or
• are standing on the side of the road after an accident,
you’ll never be left waiting for help.

5. A Reputation Built Almost Entirely on Referrals

Because most customers come from referrals — including real estate agents, past clients, and expats in the community — All Insurance CR focuses heavily on service, trust, and clear communication. More than a sales process, it’s a relationship built through reliability and exceptional results.

Types of Car Insurance Coverage Available in Costa Rica

Every driver’s situation is different. We help you understand and compare the key coverage options available.

1. Basic Liability Insurance (Marchamo)

Required by law, this annual government-issued policy covers:
• Injury to third parties
• Certain minimal liabilities
But it does not cover damage to your own vehicle, theft, or most real-world accident scenarios. That’s why nearly all expats add private coverage.

2. Full Coverage Auto Insurance

The most recommended option for residents and expats, offering:
• Collision damage
• Comprehensive protection (fire, flood, falling objects, natural events)
• Theft of vehicle or parts
• Legal liability for damage to third parties
• Optional roadside assistance
• Glass and windshield protection
Policies are customizable, allowing you to tailor your protection to your vehicle’s age, value, and how often you drive.

3. Third-Party Liability Insurance (Extended)

For those looking for affordable car insurance, this expanded liability option provides:
• Higher liability limits than Marchamo
• Optional collision or partial comprehensive coverage
• Protection against damage to other vehicles or property

4. Coverage for Rental or Secondary Vehicles

If you have a vehicle used by visiting friends or renters, we help you secure proper coverage to limit your exposure and meet legal requirements.

5. Commercial or Work Vehicle Insurance

For business vehicles, we ensure your policy aligns with commercial use regulations and risk levels.

What Makes Car Insurance in Costa Rica Different?

Expats quickly notice differences compared to their home countries:
1. Claims often require on-site police presence.
Accidents must be documented before vehicles are moved.
2. Fault determination is stricter and heavily regulated.
3. Windshield and glass damage is common and often needs special add-ons.
4. Natural events (flooding, landslides, falling branches) are real risks.
5. Some insurers require vehicle inspections before full coverage takes effect.
All Insurance CR helps you navigate these nuances with confidence.

How We Help You Choose the Best Car Insurance in Costa Rica

Car insurance comparison can feel overwhelming — especially for newcomers. We simplify the process into three steps:

Step 1:
Understand Your Situation

We look at:
Your vehicle type and value
How often you drive
Whether you travel between provinces
Who drives your vehicle
Your tolerance for risk vs. premium cost

Step 2:
Compare Policies Clearly

You receive a side-by-side breakdown of:
Premiums
Deductibles
Theft and collision limits
Natural disaster coverage
Glass and windshield protection
Roadside assistance
Exclusions and unique requirements
Everything is explained in plain English so you can make an informed decision.

Step 3:
Activate and Support Your Coverage

We handle the details, verify documents, and ensure your policy is issued correctly. And when something happens, we stay with you every step of the way — communicating with insurers, preparing documentation, and guiding you through the claims process.

FAQs about Car Insurance in Costa Rica

Yes. Marchamo provides minimal liability only. Private insurance is highly recommended for the protection of your own vehicle and legal/financial security.
Premiums depend on your vehicle’s value, coverage type, deductible, and insurer. We compare multiple vehicle insurance companies in Costa Rica to find the best option.
Absolutely. Whether you’re a tourist, in-process resident, or long-term expat, we help you get the coverage you need.
We guide you through:
• Calling the appropriate authorities
• Contacting your insurer
• Filing the claim
• Repair approvals
Our team stays with you throughout the process.
Most full-coverage plans include towing and roadside help. We’ll confirm whether your selected insurer provides it.
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//Getting reliable auto protection should be simple — and with All Insurance CR, it is.

Get a Car Insurance Quote Today

Whether you’re new to Costa Rica or have lived here for years, we help you get the best car insurance coverage at the best value.
When you request a quote, you get:

  • Fast responses from a knowledgeable team
  • Clear comparisons from multiple insurers
  • Friendly expat-focused guidance
  • A dedicated auto insurance specialist with 10+ years experience
  • Confidence that your vehicle and finances are protected

Request Your Car Insurance Quote Now

Connect with our team and get a customized auto insurance recommendation within 24 hours.

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