Selling my car/transfer of ownership requirements

I want to sell my 1996 Ford Explorer in San Jose but I don't have much time before I leave Costa Rica to return home. Can I transfer ownership to another person if I am not in country? Or can I sign a power of attorney or sign over the title to another person so that they can put the car in their name later? Does a lawyer have to be involved? I recall that it required a lawyer when I bought the car but I am short of time and would like to get it done quickly.

I can only address that you do need to use a lawyer, who must then transfer the info into the National Registry and this can take a few days.