{"id":1331,"date":"2025-11-04T00:44:25","date_gmt":"2025-11-04T00:44:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.ventucr.com\/?p=349"},"modified":"2026-10-20T00:15:15","modified_gmt":"2026-10-20T00:15:15","slug":"costa-rica-driving-scams-avoid-tourist-car-rental-scams","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/driving-in-costa-rica\/driving-basics-safety\/costa-rica-driving-scams-avoid-tourist-car-rental-scams\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Avoid Common Tourist Driving Scams in Costa Rica, 9 Smart Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Driving in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to explore beaches, rainforests, and hidden towns. But like many popular destinations, tourists can be targeted by opportunistic scams, especially when driving rental cars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The good news is simple. Most scams are easy to avoid if you know what to look for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide breaks down the most common Costa Rica driving scams and how to stay safe, confident, and in control of your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Tourists Are Targeted<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tourists stand out. Rental cars, luggage, GPS usage, and unfamiliar driving behavior make it obvious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common reasons tourists are targeted:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rental cars are easy to identify<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Travelers are unfamiliar with local laws<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Language barriers create confusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vacation mindset lowers alertness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Popular areas include Tamarindo, Jac\u00f3, La Fortuna, and San Jos\u00e9.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The 9 Most Common Driving Scams in Costa Rica<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. <strong>Flat Tire Scam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Someone damages your tire, follows you, then offers help while stealing valuables.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do not stop in isolated areas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drive to a gas station or busy location<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep valuables out of sight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. <strong>Fake Police Officers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers pretend to be police and demand cash fines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Real police never collect cash roadside<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask for ID and badge<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call 911 if unsure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. <strong>Bump and Rob<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A minor collision distracts you while an accomplice steals from your car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lock your doors before stepping out<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never leave your car unattended<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Tow Truck Scam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unsolicited tow trucks charge excessive fees or take you to unreliable garages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Only call your rental provider<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Never accept random roadside help<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Rental Damage Claims<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You get charged for damage you did not cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Take photos and videos before and after<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Document everything at pickup<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Gas Station Tricks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Attendants may mischarge or use incorrect amounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confirm the pump starts at zero<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Watch the full process<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Overpriced Insurance at Pickup<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Low online prices increase significantly at the counter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Confirm mandatory insurance is included<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get total price in writing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Related: \/costa-rica-car-rental-hidden-fees\/<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Parking Theft<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Items left visible in cars attract break-ins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Never leave bags visible<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use paid parking lots<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Related: \/leave-bags-in-car-costa-rica\/<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Fake Helpers at Tourist Spots<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People offer help at parking areas or attractions, then expect payment or steal items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to avoid it:<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Decline unsolicited help<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use official parking areas only<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Choose a Safe Car Rental Option<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your rental provider plays a huge role in avoiding scams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Traditional issues include:<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lack of support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance confusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hidden fees<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Ventu Is a Safer Alternative<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ventu removes many of these risks by design:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Verified Hosts, no random rentals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Transparent pricing, insurance included<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secure payments via Stripe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No counter pressure or upsells<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Direct support if anything goes wrong<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Book your car with confidence at <a href=\"https:\/\/ventucr.com\/\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/ventucr.com\/\">ventucr.com<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Insurance Basics You Must Understand<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Costa Rica requires <strong>mandatory liability insurance<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key types:<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Liability insurance, required by law<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>CDW, optional but recommended<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additional protections vary<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong><br>Always confirm what is included before booking to avoid surprises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Many travelers underestimate the final price. This detailed guide on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/costs-insurance-payments\/pricing-costs\/costa-rica-car-rental-hidden-fees\/\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/blog.ventucr.com\/costs-insurance-payments\/pricing-costs\/costa-rica-car-rental-hidden-fees\/\">Costa Rica car rental hidden fees<\/a><\/strong> explains why the price at checkout is often higher than expected.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Essential Safety Tips While Driving<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Avoid driving at night<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stick to main roads<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use Waze for navigation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep doors locked at all times<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not stop for strangers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Before hitting the road, understanding local conditions is key. This complete guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/driving-in-costa-rica\/driving-in-costa-rica\/\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/blog.ventucr.com\/driving-in-costa-rica\/driving-in-costa-rica\/\"><strong>driving in Costa Rica<\/strong> <\/a>explains what to expect on highways, rural roads, and everything in between.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Do If You Suspect a Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stay calm and do not engage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep doors locked<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Call 911 if needed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact your rental provider immediately<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Required Documents While Driving<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always carry:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Valid driver\u2019s license<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Passport with entry stamp<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rental agreement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance documents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Before booking, make sure you understand the legal requirements. This guide on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/driving-requirements-legal\/driving-requirements-costa-rica\/\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/blog.ventucr.com\/driving-requirements-legal\/driving-requirements-costa-rica\/\">driving requirements in Costa Rica<\/a><\/strong> explains licenses, documents, and regulations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-ast-global-color-7-background-color has-background is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-0910e091 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776287363874\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is it safe to drive in Costa Rica?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, if you follow basic precautions and stay aware.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776287380196\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Are scams common?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">They exist, but are easy to avoid with preparation.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776287387805\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do police take cash fines?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No. Payments are handled through official channels.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776287400174\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I protect my belongings?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Keep everything out of sight and use secure parking.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776287410876\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do I need an international driver license?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, your home country license is valid during your stay.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drive Smart, Travel Stress Free<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoiding scams is not about stress, it is about preparation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you choose the right platform, you eliminate most risks before your trip even starts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With Ventu you get:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clear pricing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Verified hosts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secure booking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No counter surprises<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udc49 Explore available cars at <a href=\"https:\/\/ventucr.com\/s\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/ventucr.com\/s\">ventucr.com<\/a>. Book early and travel with confidence<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-f965a3ec wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:0;padding-right:0;padding-bottom:0;padding-left:0\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udded Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Costa Rica driving scams are real, but predictable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you stay aware, choose the right rental option, and follow simple precautions, you can enjoy one of the best road trip destinations in the world without stress.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Legal Disclaimer<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This content is for informational purposes only. Driving conditions, regulations, and enforcement may change. Always verify current laws and requirements before traveling.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"is-default-size aligncenter wp-block-site-logo\"><a href=\"https:\/\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/\" class=\"custom-logo-link\" rel=\"home\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"417\" height=\"209\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Logo-Ventu-200x100-1.png?resize=417%2C209&#038;ssl=1\" class=\"custom-logo\" alt=\"Costa Rica On Wheels\" srcset=\"\" sizes=\"(max-width: 417px) 100vw, 417px\" data-attachment-id=\"522\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/logo-ventu-200x100\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Logo-Ventu-200x100-1.png?fit=417%2C209&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"417,209\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-title=\"Logo Ventu 200&amp;#215;100\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/rent.ventucr.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Logo-Ventu-200x100-1.png?fit=417%2C209&amp;ssl=1\" \/><\/a><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Driving in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to explore beaches, rainforests, and hidden towns. But like many [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":118,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[143,142],"tags":[109],"class_list":["post-1331","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-driving-basics-safety","category-driving-in-costa-rica","tag-driving-scams"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Costa Rica Driving Scams, 9 Tips to Avoid Tourist Car Rental Scams<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to avoid Costa Rica driving scams, from fake police stops to rental traps. 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