🇨🇷
Central America & Caribbean
Car Seat Laws in Costa Rica: What Parents Need to Know
Car seat required Formula limited Tap water varies
Costa Rica has relatively strong car seat laws for the region, and enforcement is taken more seriously than most Central American countries. Formula is available in pharmacies but the selection is limited compared to what you are used to. Tap water is safe in San Jose and the Central Valley but stick to bottled in coastal and rural areas.
Car Seat Laws
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legally Required | Yes |
| Age Range | 0 – 12 years |
| Approved Standards | FMVSS 213, ECE R44 |
| Rear-Facing Required | No |
| Enforcement | Enforced; fines apply. One of the stricter Central American countries. |
| Notes | Children under 12 must use appropriate restraint in rear seat. Car seat required for children under 4 (approximately). Costa Rica has relatively strong road safety laws for the region. Taxis exempt but ride-shares may have seats. |
Formula Availability
LimitedSome US and local brands available in pharmacies in San José and tourist areas
Tap Water Safety
PartialSafe in San José and major cities; use bottled water in rural and coastal areas
Car seats that meet Costa Rica standards
See all car seat rankings →Costa Rica only accepts FMVSS 213, ECE R44 certified car seats. Your existing seat may not be legal here. These are the travel-friendly options that carry the right certification.
