Transferring a car title (traspaso) in Costa Rica
The traspaso is the notarized transfer that moves a car's title to your name in the National Registry. Here's what it costs, how it works, and how to not lose money in the handoff between paying and owning.
Estimate the traspaso cost
Enter the base value — the higher of the sale price or the Hacienda fiscal value.
Look up the fiscal value by plate at Hacienda →Estimate. The transfer tax is exact (2.5%); notary fees follow a sliding arancel and some stamps are fixed, so the real total typically lands ~4–5.5% of the base.
How the traspaso works
- 1Agree the price and the base valueThe taxes are charged on the HIGHER of the sale price or the Hacienda fiscal value — agree this up front so there are no surprises at the notary.
- 2A notary drafts the transferIn Costa Rica a notary (abogado) executes the traspaso, calculates the taxes and stamps, and submits it to the Registro Nacional. Both buyer and seller sign.
- 3Taxes, stamps and fees are paidThe 2.5% transfer tax, the Registry stamps, and the notary's fees + IVA are paid as part of the deed.
- 4The title registers to the new ownerOnce accepted, the car is legally yours in the RNP. Confirm the registration went through before you consider it done.
Pay safely during the handoff
The riskiest moment is between handing over money and the title actually registering to you. Safe Buy holds the funds in escrow and releases them only once the transfer is verified — so a clean traspaso can't turn into a lost deposit.
How Safe Buy worksTraspaso FAQ
How much does a traspaso cost?
Roughly 4–5.5% of the base value (the higher of sale price or fiscal value): a 2.5% transfer tax, ~1.5% in Registry stamps, and the notary's ~1.5% fee plus 13% IVA on that fee. Use the calculator above for an estimate.
Who pays for the traspaso?
It's negotiable, but the buyer commonly pays the transfer costs. Agree who pays before you sign.
What's the base value the tax is charged on?
The higher of the agreed sale price or the Hacienda fiscal value. You can look up the fiscal value by plate at Hacienda's auto-gestión portal.
Do I need a notary?
Yes. The traspaso must be executed by a Costa Rican notary, who submits it to the National Registry.
What should I check before transferring?
Run a plate check first — an unpaid marchamo, liens, or fines can follow the car. Clear them (or price them in) before the traspaso.