Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Argentine Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your licencia de conducir in Argentina — ANSV theory test format (30-40 questions, varies by province), costs ARS 5,000-15,000, BAC 0.00% on national roads (some provinces retain 0.05%), scoring system (puntos), VTV vehicle inspection, 23 provinces + CABA, and driving on the right.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
30-40 multiple-choice questions (varies by province).
Topics include traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and Argentine traffic law (Ley 24.449 and Ley 26.363). Pass mark typically 70-80%. Computer-based in most jurisdictions. Some provinces include specific local regulations.
Total Cost
Government fees range from ARS 5,000 to ARS 15,000 depending on the province, covering theory exam, practical driving test, psychophysical aptitude certificate, and licence issuance.
CABA and Buenos Aires Province tend to be at the higher end. Additional costs may include driving school (optional but recommended).
Road Deaths
Approximately 4,369 fatalities in 2023 (~9.5 per 100,000 inhabitants).
Motorcyclists and pedestrians account for a large share of fatalities. Weekend nights and national holidays are peak accident periods.
BAC Limit
National 'alcohol cero' law: 0.00% BAC on national roads.
18 of 24 jurisdictions have adopted zero tolerance. Approximately 6 provinces (CABA, Corrientes, Misiones, Mendoza, San Juan, Santa Fe) retain 0.05%. Professional/commercial drivers: 0.00% everywhere. Penalties include licence suspension 1-5 years and vehicle impoundment.
Scoring System
Argentina uses a points-based scoring system (sistema de puntos).
Each licence starts with 20 points. Violations deduct points. Reaching zero results in licence suspension. Points are restored after violation-free periods. Serious violations (DUI, hit-and-run) can result in immediate suspension.
Global Context
Argentina's road death rate (~9.5/100K) is comparable to Chile (~9/100K) and well below Brazil (~18/100K).
The national 0.00% BAC 'alcohol cero' law is stricter than most European countries (typically 0.05%). Licence costs are among the lowest in South America. Provincial variation in test format and requirements is significant.
Argentina Road Safety: 3-Year Trend (2022–2024)
Argentina's road safety record has shown modest improvement in recent years, driven by ANSV campaigns, increased enforcement of alcohol testing (alcoholemia controls), and expansion of speed cameras (fotomultas). However, motorcycle fatalities continue to rise as motorcycle ownership grows rapidly, particularly in the provinces.
Year-over-year changes
Deaths per 100,000 Population
Brazil18- Argentina9.5
Mexico12
Chile9
Spain3.7
Source: WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety, ANSV Argentina. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Argentine Theory Test Format
Computer-based theory test administered at municipal licensing centres across Argentina
The Argentine driving theory test varies by province and municipality but typically consists of 30-40 multiple-choice questions covering traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, vehicle safety, and the Ley Nacional de Transito (24.449). In CABA, the test is 30 questions with a 45-minute time limit. Most jurisdictions require 70-80% correct answers to pass. The test is computer-based in major cities, though some smaller municipalities may still use paper-based exams. Content follows ANSV national guidelines, but each province may add local regulations.
Questions
Duration
Pass Mark
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Traffic signs, signals & road markings
- Right-of-way rules at intersections
- Speed limits by road type and zone
- Ley 24.449 national traffic regulations
- Pedestrian and cyclist priority rules
- VTV (Verificacion Tecnica Vehicular) requirements
- Mandatory safety equipment (matafuego, balizas)
- Seatbelt and child restraint laws
- Vehicle documentation requirements
- Environmental and emissions rules
- Accident procedures and insurance
- Alcohol and drug driving penalties
- Scoring system (sistema de puntos)
- Highway and autopista rules
- Emergency vehicle priority
How to Get Your Argentine Driving Licence
From medical check to licencia de conducir — the complete process
- 1
Get the Psychophysical Aptitude Certificate
Visit an authorized medical centre for a driving fitness check
Includes vision test, hearing test, reflexes, and mental aptitude assessment. Required for all new licences and renewals. Cost varies by municipality.
- 2
Complete a Road Safety Course
Attend a mandatory road safety course (curso de educacion vial)
Mandatory ANSV-approved course covering traffic laws, defensive driving, and road safety awareness. Typically 1-2 hours. Some municipalities offer this online.
- 3
Pass the Theory Test
Take the multiple-choice theory exam at the municipal licensing centre
30-40 questions depending on province. Covers traffic laws, signs, speed limits, and Ley 24.449. Need 70-80% to pass. Computer-based in most cities.
- 4
Pass the Practical Driving Test
Demonstrate driving skills on a closed course and/or public roads
Closed-course test includes parking, manoeuvring, and signalling. Some jurisdictions also include a road driving component. Must bring a vehicle with valid VTV and insurance.
- 5
Submit Documentation
Present required documents: DNI, medical certificate, proof of address
Required: DNI (national identity document), psychophysical certificate, proof of residence (within the municipality), blood type certificate.
- 6
Receive Your Licencia de Conducir
Collect your driving licence — credit-card format with photo and chip
Licence issued same day in many municipalities. Valid for 5 years (age 21-65), 3 years (under 21). Decree 196/2025 eliminated licence expiration for drivers over 65, replacing it with periodic psychophysical fitness updates. PVC card with security features.
Argentine Driving Licence Fees
Total cost ARS 5,000-15,000 — varies significantly by province and municipality
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Psychophysical aptitude certificate | ARS 1,500-4,000 |
| Road safety course | ARS 500-2,000 |
| Theory exam fee | Included |
| Practical exam fee | Included |
| Licence issuance | ARS 3,000-9,000 |
| Blood type certificate | ARS 500-1,500 |
| Driving school (optional) | ARS 20,000-60,000 |
| Total Typical (without driving school) | ARS 5,000-15,000 |
Fees vary significantly by province and municipality. CABA and Buenos Aires Province are generally more expensive. Driving school is optional but strongly recommended for first-time drivers. Prices quoted are approximate for 2026 and subject to inflation adjustments.
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- A1 — Motorcycles up to 150ccFrom age 16 with parental consent16years
- A2 — Motorcycles 150cc-300ccAge 17, 2 years with A117years
- A3 — Motorcycles over 300ccAge 21 minimum21years
- B1 — Cars up to 3,500 kgStandard car licence17years
- B2 — Cars + light trailerIncludes trailer up to 750 kg17years
- C — Trucks over 3,500 kgCommercial vehicle licence21years
- D1 — Minibuses up to 8 passengersPassenger transport21years
- D2 — Buses over 8 passengersProfessional passenger transport21years
- E — Articulated vehiclesSemi-trailers and road trains21years
Licence Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| Under 21 yearsShorter validity for young drivers | 3 years |
| Age 21-45Standard validity period | 5 years |
| Age 46-65Standard validity period | 5 years |
| Over 65 yearsDecree 196/2025 eliminated licence expiration; periodic psychophysical fitness updates required instead | No expiration* |
Scoring System (Sistema de Puntos)
- Each licence starts with 20 points
- Minor violations deduct 1-3 points
- Serious violations deduct 5-10 points
- DUI or hit-and-run: immediate suspension
- Points restored after 2 years without violations
Key Topics to Study
- Ley 24.449 (National Traffic Law) and amendments
- Speed limits: urban, rural, highway (autopista)
- Alcohol limits and penalties for DUI
- Mandatory vehicle equipment (matafuego, balizas, botiquin)
- VTV (vehicle technical inspection) requirements
Speed Limits in Argentina
As per Ley Nacional de Transito 24.449 — all speeds in km/h
Argentina's speed limits are set by national law (Ley 24.449) but provinces can set lower limits. In urban areas, the general limit is 40 km/h on residential streets and 60 km/h on avenues (avenidas). On rural routes (rutas nacionales/provinciales), the limit is 110 km/h and 120 km/h for semi-autopistas. Autopistas (motorways) allow up to 120-130 km/h depending on signage. In school zones (zonas escolares), the limit is 20 km/h. Trucks and buses have lower limits on all road types.
| Road Type | Cars / Light Vehicles | Motorcycles | Trucks / Buses | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban — residential street | 40 | 40 | 40 | Calles residenciales |
| Urban — avenue (avenida) | 60 | 60 | 60 | Avenidas with multiple lanes |
| Rural route (ruta) | 110 | 110 | 80 | Rutas nacionales/provinciales |
| Semi-autopista | 120 | 120 | 90 | Divided road, no median barrier |
| Autopista (motorway) | 130 | 130 | 100 | Full access-controlled motorway |
Urban — residential street
Cars / Light Vehicles: 40Motorcycles: 40Trucks / Buses: 40Calles residenciales
Urban — avenue (avenida)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 60Motorcycles: 60Trucks / Buses: 60Avenidas with multiple lanes
Rural route (ruta)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 110Motorcycles: 110Trucks / Buses: 80Rutas nacionales/provinciales
Semi-autopista
Cars / Light Vehicles: 120Motorcycles: 120Trucks / Buses: 90Divided road, no median barrier
Autopista (motorway)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 130Motorcycles: 130Trucks / Buses: 100Full access-controlled motorway
Speed limits may be lower in specific zones: school zones 20 km/h, near hospitals 30 km/h. Posted signs always take precedence over general limits. Provinces may set stricter limits. Rain or fog conditions require reduced speed. Fines double for speeding in school zones.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
As per Ley 24.449 and provincial regulations — fines in Unidades Fijas (UF) converted to ARS
Argentine traffic fines are calculated in Unidades Fijas (UF), a standard unit that is periodically updated to account for inflation. The value of one UF varies by jurisdiction. Fines range from minor (parking violations) to severe (DUI, excessive speeding, hit-and-run). In addition to monetary fines, violations can result in licence suspension, vehicle impoundment, and deduction of points from the scoring system. Repeat offenders face progressively harsher penalties.
Up to ARS 20,000ARS 20,001–60,000Over ARS 60,000
| Violation | Car Fine (ARS) | Points | Motorcycle Fine (ARS) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running red light | 30,000-60,000 | 5 | 20,000-40,000 |
| DUI — BAC >0.05% | 60,000-150,000 | Suspended | 60,000-150,000 |
| DUI — BAC >0.10% | 150,000-300,000 | Suspended | 150,000-300,000 |
| Speeding 20-40 km/h over | 20,000-50,000 | 3 | 15,000-40,000 |
| Speeding >40 km/h over | 50,000-120,000 | 5-10 | 40,000-100,000 |
| Using phone while driving | 15,000-30,000 | 3 | 15,000-30,000 |
| No seatbelt | 10,000-20,000 | 2 | — |
| No helmet (motorcycle) | — | 3 | 15,000-30,000 |
| Expired VTV | 15,000-40,000 | 2 | 10,000-25,000 |
| Driving without licence | 50,000-100,000 | — | 30,000-60,000 |
| Wrong-way driving | 40,000-80,000 | 5 | 30,000-60,000 |
| No insurance | 40,000-100,000 | — | 30,000-80,000 |
- 30,000-60,00020,000-40,000
Running red light
5 - 60,000-150,00060,000-150,000
DUI — BAC >0.05%
Suspended - 150,000-300,000150,000-300,000
DUI — BAC >0.10%
Suspended - 20,000-50,00015,000-40,000
Speeding 20-40 km/h over
3 - 50,000-120,00040,000-100,000
Speeding >40 km/h over
5-10 - 15,000-30,00015,000-30,000
Using phone while driving
3 - 10,000-20,000—
No seatbelt
2 - —15,000-30,000
No helmet (motorcycle)
3 - 15,000-40,00010,000-25,000
Expired VTV
2 - 50,000-100,00030,000-60,000
Driving without licence
- 40,000-80,00030,000-60,000
Wrong-way driving
5 - 40,000-100,00030,000-80,000
No insurance
Fines are approximate and vary by province. Amounts are calculated in Unidades Fijas (UF) and converted to ARS at current rates. Fines double in school zones and during national holiday periods. Repeat offenders within 12 months face double penalties. Vehicle impoundment applies for DUI, no licence, and no insurance.
Know These Rules Before Your Theory Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and the scoring system are commonly tested in the Argentine theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Right
Argentina uses right-hand traffic.
Overtake on the left only. On multi-lane roads, keep right except when overtaking. At roundabouts (rotondas), vehicles already in the roundabout have priority.
Alcohol Limits
National 'alcohol cero' law: 0.00% BAC on national roads.
18 of 24 jurisdictions enforce zero tolerance. Approximately 6 provinces (CABA, Corrientes, Misiones, Mendoza, San Juan, Santa Fe) retain 0.05%. Professional drivers: 0.00% everywhere. Breathalyzer (alcoholemia) checkpoints are common, especially on weekends and holidays.
Mandatory Equipment
All vehicles must carry: fire extinguisher (matafuego), warning triangles (balizas portatiles), first aid kit, spare tyre with jack, and tow rope.
Motorcyclists must wear approved helmets. Note: reflective vests (chaleco reflectante) are mandatory only for motorcycle passengers, not for all vehicles.
VTV Vehicle Inspection
Verificacion Tecnica Vehicular (VTV) is mandatory annually for vehicles over 3 years old (2 years in some provinces).
Covers brakes, lights, emissions, tyres, and structural integrity. Driving without valid VTV results in fines and possible impoundment.
Compulsory Insurance
Third-party liability insurance (seguro contra terceros) is mandatory for all vehicles.
Minimum coverage includes bodily injury and property damage. Driving without insurance results in fines and vehicle impoundment.
Daytime Running Lights
Headlights must be on at all times on rural routes (rutas) and autopistas, even during daylight.
In urban areas, headlights required from sunset to sunrise and during poor visibility conditions.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld phone use prohibited while driving.
Only hands-free systems permitted. Fine of ARS 15,000-30,000 plus 3 points deducted. Applies to all vehicles including motorcycles.
Seatbelt & Child Seats
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants (front and rear).
Children under 10 must ride in the back seat. Children under 4 (or under 15 kg) require appropriate child safety seats (sillas de retencion infantil).
Peajes (Tolls)
Major autopistas and some rutas have toll booths (peajes).
Payment options: cash, prepaid cards (TelePase), and electronic systems. TelePase automatic electronic toll is increasingly mandatory on major routes.
Common Road Hazards in Argentina
~4,369 road fatalities in 2023 — know these hazards to stay safe on Argentine roads
Rural Route Risks
Two-lane rutas with heavy truck traffic, no shoulders, and long straight stretches that induce drowsiness. Head-on collisions are a major cause of rural fatalities.
Urban Motorcycle Traffic
Rapidly growing motorcycle fleet in cities — lane splitting, weaving, and running red lights are common. Motorcyclists account for a significant share of urban fatalities.
Flooding (Inundaciones)
Buenos Aires and other cities experience sudden flooding during heavy rains. Streets can flood rapidly, hiding potholes and debris. Do not drive through standing water.
Potholes (Baches)
Road surface quality varies widely. Provincial routes and urban streets often have significant potholes, especially after rainy seasons. Watch for unmarked road damage.
Animals on Roads
Loose livestock (cattle, horses) on rural routes, particularly in Patagonia and the Pampas. Wildlife crossings are poorly signed. Collisions with animals can be fatal.
Fog on Autopistas
Dense fog (niebla) common on autopistas and rutas in the Pampas region, especially autumn and winter mornings. Multiple-vehicle pileups occur. Reduce speed significantly.
Argentina's Provinces & CABA
Driving licence administration varies by province — each of the 23 provinces and CABA has its own licensing authority
- 1CABABuenos AiresCity3.1M
- 2Buenos AiresLa PlataProvince17.5M
- 3CordobaCordobaProvince3.8M
- 4Santa FeSanta FeProvince3.5M
- 5MendozaMendozaProvince2.0M
- 6TucumanSan Miguel de TucumanProvince1.7M
- 7Entre RiosParanaProvince1.4M
- 8SaltaSaltaProvince1.4M
- 9MisionesPosadasProvince1.3M
- 10ChacoResistenciaProvince1.2M
Argentina has 23 provinces plus the Ciudad Autonoma de Buenos Aires (CABA). Each jurisdiction administers its own driving licence tests, though content follows ANSV national guidelines. Test availability, fees, and specific requirements vary by municipality.
Myth: You can drive anywhere in Argentina with any provincial licence
Fact: While an Argentine licencia de conducir is valid nationwide, you must obtain it from the municipality where you have legal residence (domicilio). You cannot get a licence from a different province just because it may be easier. The ANSV maintains a national registry (RENALIC) to prevent this.
Myth: The theory test is the same in every province
Fact: While all theory tests follow ANSV national guidelines and cover Ley 24.449, the number of questions (30-40), pass mark (70-80%), and inclusion of local regulations varies by province and municipality. CABA, Buenos Aires Province, Cordoba, and other jurisdictions each have their own format.
Myth: You only need VTV for old vehicles
Fact: VTV (Verificacion Tecnica Vehicular) is mandatory for vehicles starting from 2-3 years old (varies by province). New vehicles are exempt only for the first 2-3 years. After that, annual inspection is required. Driving without valid VTV results in fines and potential vehicle impoundment.
Myth: The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% everywhere in Argentina
Fact: Argentina's national 'alcohol cero' law sets 0.00% BAC on national roads, and 18 of 24 jurisdictions have adopted it. Only about 6 provinces (CABA, Corrientes, Misiones, Mendoza, San Juan, Santa Fe) retain the older 0.05% limit. Professional drivers face 0.00% everywhere. Penalties increase progressively with BAC level.
Myth: Driving school is mandatory to get a licence
Fact: Driving school (escuela de manejo) is NOT mandatory in Argentina — you can take the practical test without having attended one. However, the mandatory road safety course (curso de educacion vial) IS required. Driving school is strongly recommended for first-time drivers.
Myth: Speed cameras (fotomultas) are illegal in Argentina
Fact: Speed cameras and red-light cameras are fully legal and increasingly widespread, particularly in Buenos Aires, CABA, Cordoba, Rosario, and on national autopistas. The ANSV supports their deployment. Fines arrive by mail or electronically. Unpaid fotomultas can prevent licence renewal.
Recent Changes to Argentine Driving Laws
Key regulatory updates affecting drivers in Argentina
Digital driving licence expansion
More provinces adopt the licencia digital (Mi Argentina app), allowing drivers to present their digital licence alongside or instead of the physical card during traffic stops.
ANSV strengthens alcohol enforcement
Expanded alcoholemia control programme with more breathalyzer checkpoints on national routes and during holiday periods. Stricter penalties for refusing breath tests.
Electronic toll (TelePase) expansion
TelePase electronic toll system becomes increasingly mandatory on major autopistas. Integration with fotomulta system for automated fine collection.
VTV modernisation programme
New VTV plants opened across provinces. Modernised inspection equipment and procedures. Tighter emissions testing aligned with Euro 5 standards for newer vehicles.
National scoring system updates
Refinement of the sistema de puntos with better integration across provinces. RENALIC national registry improvements to track violations across jurisdictions.
COVID-19 impact and ANSV road safety campaign
Pandemic lockdowns caused a temporary drop in road fatalities. ANSV launched renewed road safety campaigns post-lockdown, including stricter penalties for distracted driving and expanded pedestrian protection zones.
How Argentina Compares Globally
Argentina's driving regulations compared to neighbouring and reference countries — data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Argentina | Brazil | Chile | Mexico | Spain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.00%* | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.04–0.08% | 0.05% |
| Min. Age (Car) | 17 | 18 | 18 | 15–18 | 18 |
| Driving Side | Right | Right | Right | Right | Right |
| Highway Speed | 130 | 110–120 | 120 | 110 | 120 |
| Test Questions | 30–40 | 30 | 35 | 20–40 | 30 |
| Licence Cost | ARS 5–15K | R$2–3K | CLP 50K | MXN 500–2K | €800–1.2K |
| Road Deaths/yr | ~4,369 | ~37,000 | ~1,700 | ~16,000 | ~1,800 |
| Deaths/100K | ~9.5 | ~18 | ~9 | ~12 | ~3.7 |
BAC Limit
Argentina: 0.00%*Brazil: 0.00%Chile: 0.03%Mexico: 0.04–0.08%Spain: 0.05%Min. Age (Car)
Argentina: 17Brazil: 18Chile: 18Mexico: 15–18Spain: 18Driving Side
Argentina: RightBrazil: RightChile: RightMexico: RightSpain: RightHighway Speed
Argentina: 130Brazil: 110–120Chile: 120Mexico: 110Spain: 120Test Questions
Argentina: 30–40Brazil: 30Chile: 35Mexico: 20–40Spain: 30Licence Cost
Argentina: ARS 5–15KBrazil: R$2–3KChile: CLP 50KMexico: MXN 500–2KSpain: €800–1.2KRoad Deaths/yr
Argentina: ~4,369Brazil: ~37,000Chile: ~1,700Mexico: ~16,000Spain: ~1,800Deaths/100K
Argentina: ~9.5Brazil: ~18Chile: ~9Mexico: ~12Spain: ~3.7
Argentina
National 'alcohol cero' law: 0.00% on national roads. ~6 provinces retain 0.05%. Brazil 0.00%. Chile 0.03%. Mexico varies by state (0.04-0.08%). Spain 0.05%.
Chile 18, Brazil 18, Mexico 15-18 (varies), Spain 18. Argentina allows 16 for motorcycles with parental consent.
Up to 130 km/h on some autopistas. Brazil 110-120, Chile 120, Mexico 110, Spain 120 km/h.
Among the lowest in the region. Brazil ~R$2,000-3,000, Chile ~CLP 50,000, Spain EUR 800-1,200 with driving school.
~9.5 per 100K. Brazil ~37,000 (~18/100K), Chile ~1,700 (~9/100K), Mexico ~16,000 (~12/100K), Spain ~1,800 (~3.7/100K).
Road deaths: Argentina ~4,369 (ANSV 2023), Brazil ~37,000 (ONSV 2023), Chile ~1,700 (CONASET 2023), Mexico ~16,000 (INEGI 2023), Spain ~1,800 (DGT 2023). Per-capita rates: Brazil ~18, Mexico ~12, Argentina ~9.5, Chile ~9, Spain ~3.7 per 100K. *Argentina's national 'alcohol cero' law sets 0.00% on national roads; ~6 provinces retain 0.05%.
Primary Sources
Verification Methodology
Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:
- 1Primary data collected from Argentine national legislation and ANSV publications
- 2Cross-verified against provincial regulations, WHO reports, and DNRPA data
- 3Provincial variations noted where applicable (fees, test format, BAC limits)
- 4Page reviewed and fact-checked on March 27, 2026
If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driving licence cost in Argentina?
Total cost ranges from ARS 5,000 to ARS 15,000 depending on the province and municipality. This covers the psychophysical aptitude certificate (ARS 1,500-4,000), mandatory road safety course (ARS 500-2,000), licence issuance (ARS 3,000-9,000), and blood type certificate (ARS 500-1,500). Driving school is optional and costs ARS 20,000-60,000 extra. CABA and Buenos Aires Province are at the higher end.
What is the Argentine theory test format?
The theory test varies by province: typically 30-40 multiple-choice questions covering traffic signs, Ley 24.449, speed limits, right-of-way, and vehicle safety requirements. In CABA the test has 30 questions with 45 minutes. Pass mark is 70-80% depending on jurisdiction. Tests are computer-based in most major cities. Content follows ANSV national guidelines but each province may include local regulations.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Argentina?
Argentina's national 'alcohol cero' law sets a 0.00% BAC limit on national roads. 18 of 24 jurisdictions have adopted zero tolerance. Approximately 6 provinces (CABA, Corrientes, Misiones, Mendoza, San Juan, Santa Fe) retain the older 0.05% limit. Professional/commercial drivers: 0.00% everywhere. Penalties range from fines (ARS 60,000-300,000) to licence suspension (1-5 years) and vehicle impoundment. Refusing a breathalyzer test is treated as a presumption of maximum BAC.
What are the speed limits in Argentina?
Urban residential streets: 40 km/h. Avenidas: 60 km/h. Rural routes: 110 km/h. Semi-autopistas: 120 km/h. Autopistas: 120-130 km/h. School zones: 20 km/h. Trucks and buses have lower limits. Limits are set by Ley 24.449 but provinces can set stricter limits. Posted signs always take precedence.
What are the emergency numbers in Argentina?
911 — General Emergency (available nationwide). 107 — SAME Ambulance / Medical Emergency. 100 — Fire Department (Bomberos). 101 — Police. 103 — Civil Defence (Defensa Civil). All are toll-free and available 24/7.
Do I need a VTV for my vehicle?
Yes, VTV (Verificacion Tecnica Vehicular) is mandatory for vehicles starting from 2-3 years old (varies by province). New vehicles are exempt for the first 2-3 years. After that, annual inspection is required covering brakes, lights, emissions, tyres, and structural integrity. Driving without valid VTV results in fines (ARS 15,000-40,000) and potential vehicle impoundment.
What is the minimum driving age in Argentina?
Motorcycles up to 150cc (A1): 16 years with parental consent. Motorcycles 150-300cc (A2): 17 years. Cars (B1): 17 years. Motorcycles over 300cc (A3): 21 years. Commercial vehicles (C): 21 years. Buses (D): 21 years. Licences issued to under-21s are valid for 3 years instead of 5.
Is driving school mandatory in Argentina?
No, driving school (escuela de manejo) is NOT mandatory. You can take the practical test without attending one. However, a mandatory road safety course (curso de educacion vial) IS required for all applicants. Driving school is strongly recommended for first-time drivers, especially in Buenos Aires where traffic is intense.
What documents do I need to carry while driving?
You must carry: valid driving licence (licencia de conducir) or digital licence via Mi Argentina app, DNI (national identity document), vehicle registration (cedula verde/azul), valid VTV certificate, compulsory insurance policy (seguro contra terceros), and fire extinguisher (matafuego). Failure to present these on request results in fines.
Can foreigners drive in Argentina?
Foreigners can drive with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) combined with their home country licence for up to 1 year. After 1 year of residence, an Argentine licence is required. Some bilateral agreements recognize foreign licences directly. A temporary Argentine licence may be obtained with a DNI or temporary residence document.
How does the scoring system (puntos) work?
Each licence starts with 20 points. Violations deduct points: minor violations 1-3 points, serious violations 5-10 points. DUI or hit-and-run results in immediate licence suspension regardless of points. Reaching zero points triggers licence suspension. Points are restored after 2 years without violations. The system is managed nationally through RENALIC.
What mandatory equipment must I carry in my vehicle?
Cars must carry: fire extinguisher (matafuego, 1 kg minimum), two warning triangles (balizas portatiles), first aid kit, spare tyre with jack and wrench, and tow rope. Reflective vests (chaleco reflectante) are mandatory only for motorcycle passengers, not for all vehicles. Motorcyclists must wear an approved helmet with reflective strips. Failure to carry required equipment results in fines.
What is TelePase and how does it work?
TelePase is Argentina's electronic toll collection system used on major autopistas and some rutas. You register online, receive a transponder tag for your windshield, and tolls are automatically deducted from your linked account or credit card. It is increasingly mandatory on major routes around Buenos Aires. Without TelePase, you use cash lanes (where available).
How are speed cameras (fotomultas) handled?
Speed cameras and red-light cameras are legal and increasingly common on autopistas and in major cities. Fines are issued automatically and sent by mail or electronically. Payment is mandatory — unpaid fotomultas can block licence renewal and vehicle registration. The ANSV oversees the national system, but municipalities operate individual cameras.
What is the Ruta 40?
Ruta Nacional 40 is Argentina's longest national route at 5,194 km, running from Cabo Virgenes in Santa Cruz to La Quiaca in Jujuy along the Andes. It is one of the world's most iconic driving routes, passing through 11 provinces, 18 rivers, 27 passes, and reaching altitudes over 5,000 metres. Road conditions vary from paved autopista sections to unpaved gravel tracks in Patagonia.
Cite This Page
Use the following citations when referencing this article in academic papers, journalism, or reports.
APA 7th Edition
AutoviaTest. (2026, March 27). Argentina driving licence facts 2026 — theory test, fees, fines & rules. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/argentina/facts
MLA 9th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Argentina Driving Licence Facts 2026 — Theory Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." AutoviaTest, 27 Mar. 2026, autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/argentina/facts.
Chicago 17th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Argentina Driving Licence Facts 2026 — Theory Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." Last modified March 27, 2026. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/argentina/facts.
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