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Costa Rica is the perfect place for all those who love adventures, beautiful beaches, and a bustling nightlife. Whether you are spending a short vacation in the country or planning to stay for a longer period it is very important that you know the legal drinking age in Costa Rica, as well as the alcohol law in the country to avoid problems with the law.
Costa Rica drinking age
In Costa Rica, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Thus no person under 18 is allowed to buy alcohol in bars, restaurants, or liquor stores. Many countries do not enforce these laws properly, but Costa Rica does. Bars are liable to severe fines if they sell alcohol to anybody considered a minor under these laws.
Alcohol Culture in Costa Rica
Drinking in Costa Rica is casual but comes with a certain responsibility. Locals obviously love Guaro, a sugarcane spirit mainly used in cocktails, and Imperial Beer, one of the most famous local beers. It is not unusual to socialize over drinks, especially during celebrations, family gatherings and festivals.
The law states that it is illegal to consume alcohol in public in Costa Rica, which includes drinking on the streets or in public places unless special permission has been obtained. In some areas, the law seems to be relaxed, but it is best to check the local regulations before opening a cold beer on the beach.
Drunk Driving in Costa Rica: What Are the Limits?
In Costa Rica, strict drunk driving laws are enforced to ensure road safety. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.05%. For professional and commercial drivers, the BAC limit is lowered to an even lower level of 0.02%.
The police usually conduct random sobriety checks, focusing on tourist areas with heavy traffic. If the limit is exceeded, the penalties can be very severe, including high fines, suspension of the driver’s license for a certain period of time, and even, in severe cases, imprisonment.
Penalties for Drunk Driving: Fines and Consequences
In legal and financial terms, DUI is considered a serious offense in Costa Rica. If your BAC is between 0.05% and 0.075%, you can expect to pay around $500 and six penalty points to your driving record. However, offenses above 0.075% can result in a prison sentence and automatic suspension of your license.
For tourists renting cars in Costa Rica, the most important thing to remember is that a DUI will affect your ability to rent cars in the future. Most rental companies check for traffic violations before approving a booking. If you plan to party and travel a lot, maybe you should consider a private guide and driver? I assure you that at the end of the day, it will be cheaper and definitely safer.
Considerations Regarding Costa Rica Drinking Age
For tourists planning to visit, understanding the Costa Rica drinking age is crucial to avoid unexpected legal issues. And it turns out to be useful so as not to stumble upon any legal issues that could cost you time and almost everything you planned to experience here. Bars, clubs and liquor stores often ask to see your ID before serving alcohol.
It is recommended to carry at least one form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, to serve as proof that you meet the legal drinking age in Costa Rica. Finally, tourists may also want to check whether some resorts or all-inclusive hotels have their own rules regarding alcohol consumption in addition to national regulations.
Buying alcohol in Costa Rica: What you should know
When it comes to buying alcohol, the Costa Rican legal age applies to both residents and tourists. Alcohol can be purchased in supermarkets, liquor stores and convenience stores. The sale of alcoholic beverages is permitted every day of the week, except on days when national elections are held. In such cases, a temporary ban on alcohol consumption is in place.
In tourist areas, happy hours and other promotions are common, but buyers should always make sure that the establishments’ practices are within acceptable limits. A proper understanding of the Costa Rican drinking age and the accompanying rules and regulations would ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience when trying out nightlife and local drinks.
Final Thoughts on Costa Rica Drinking Age
Regardless of the length of your stay in Costa Rica – whether it is a quick getaway or a longer vacation – it is wise to keep in mind the drinking age in Costa Rica and local alcohol laws to ensure an incident-free experience. The country has spectacular local drinks, from craft beer to traditional spirits, but what matters is drinking responsibly.
Carry your ID to prove your age, follow the regulations regarding public consumption of alcohol and, more importantly, know that there are DUI laws to avoid any legal issues. Follow these small tips and you will be able to enjoy the Costa Rican nightlife while staying safe.
