No. Costa Rica’s Ley de Tránsito por Vías Públicas Terrestres y Seguridad Vial (Law No. 9078) explicitly prohibits driving while wearing headphones, earbuds, or any auditory device that impairs hearing. Violations incur fines up to ₡150,000 (≈$270 USD) and potential license suspension under Dirección General de Tránsito y Seguridad Vial (DGT) enforcement. The 2026 regulatory update (Decreto Ejecutivo No. 43592-MP) tightens penalties for distracted driving, aligning with WHO safety standards.
Key Regulations for Driving with Headphones in Costa Rica
- Absolute Ban: Article 147 of Law 9078 criminalizes headphone use, citing impaired situational awareness as a hazard. Exceptions apply only to hearing aids or emergency services personnel.
- Enforcement Focus: DGT’s 2025–2026 crackdown prioritizes urban zones (San José, Heredia) and highways, using AI-powered traffic cameras to detect violations.
- Penalties: Fines escalate with repeat offenses; third violations mandate a 3-month license suspension. Insurance claims may be denied if headphones are linked to an accident.
Local courts interpret “headphones” broadly—including bone conduction devices—unless explicitly approved by the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT). Tourists face the same penalties as residents.