Throughout the history of independent Costa Rica, there have been different systems to cover the temporary or permanent absence of a president.

Between 1824 and 1841, in accordance with the Basic Law of 21 January 1825 and 1844, a Vice-Head-of-State was elected by the people.

In line with the Decree of Rules and Guarantees of 1841, a popularly elected Second-Head-of-State was created to replace the Head of State in case of temporary or permanent absence.

From 1848 to 1849 the popularly elected Costa Rican Vice-President of the Republic presided over the Legislature.

This situation lasted until the constitutional government assumed power in 1882 In 1882, with the restoration of the 1871 Constitution, Costa Rica returned to the system of Designates to the presidency, but with three designates, elected by the Legislature for same four-year period as the president of the Republic.