I have read on a couple of sites that a license is required for both recreational and commercial use. The license is 40 hours of theoretical training, 10 hours of flight and $94 for the fee. Commercial folks have to hand over $1,800+ to use a drone. I also read the fine for non-compliance is $16,000.
I rarely saw police on my two visits to CR, but I am not sure I want to risk a $16k fine for an upcoming visit.
I am going to ask my Spanish speaking coworkers to look at the site
Dirección General de Aviación Civil to see if they can confirm the need for the license.
I am waiting for my Mavic to show up. I would love to take it with me to CR, but am unsure at this point.