Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Chilean Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your driving licence in Chile -- licencia de conducir theory test format (35 questions, varies by municipality), costs (CLP 30,000-60,000), Ley de Tolerancia Cero 0.03% BAC, TAG toll system, 16 regions, and revisión técnica requirements.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
35 multiple-choice questions administered at municipal offices across Chile.
Must score approximately 80% (28/35) to pass. Topics include traffic signs, road rules, and the Ley de Tránsito. Format and exact question count may vary slightly by municipality.
Total Cost
CLP 30,000-60,000 (~$30-60 USD) total including medical exam, theory test, practical test, and licence issuance.
Fees are set by each municipality. Driving schools charge CLP 150,000-400,000 (~$150-400) separately for lessons but are not mandatory.
Road Deaths
Approximately 1,600 fatalities in 2024 (preliminary estimate, down from 1,635 in 2023 and 1,745 in 2022).
Chile has a rate of approximately 8.5 per 100,000 population -- lower than most Latin American countries but higher than Western Europe.
BAC Limit
0.03% BAC for private drivers under the Ley de Tolerancia Cero (Ley Emilia, Ley 20.770).
Absolute zero (0.00%) for professional/commercial drivers. Penalties range from licence suspension to imprisonment for causing injury or death while intoxicated.
TAG Toll System
Santiago's urban motorways (autopistas urbanas) use the TAG electronic toll system.
Vehicles must have a TAG transponder for Costanera Norte, Vespucio Express, Autopista Central, and other concession highways. TAG is also expanding to interurban toll roads including Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway).
Global Context
Chile's road death rate (~8.5/100K) is among the lowest in Latin America.
BAC limit (0.03%) is stricter than most of the region. Licence cost (~$30-60) is affordable. No national points system exists yet (proposed). Revisión técnica (vehicle inspection) is mandatory.
Chile Road Safety: 3-Year Trend (2022–2024)
Chile has made significant progress in road safety over the past decade. Fatalities decreased from 1,745 in 2022 to 1,635 in 2023 and approximately 1,600 in 2024 (preliminary estimate), driven by stricter enforcement of the Ley Emilia (zero tolerance), expanded speed camera networks, and improved urban road design. CONASET continues to implement the National Road Safety Strategy targeting a 50% reduction in fatalities by 2030.
Year-over-year changes
Deaths per 100,000 Population
Brazil15.5
Mexico12.5
Argentina11.8- Chile8.5
Spain3.8
Source: WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety, CONASET Chile. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Chilean Theory Test Format
Written theory test administered at municipal licensing offices (Departamento de Tránsito) across Chile
The Chilean driving theory test (prueba teórica) for Class B consists of approximately 35 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 45 minutes. To pass, you must answer at least 80% correctly (~28/35). The exam covers traffic signs (señales de tránsito), right-of-way rules, speed limits, the Ley de Tránsito (Traffic Law 18.290), and road safety. The test is administered at the Departamento de Tránsito of each municipality (municipalidad). The exact format may vary slightly between municipalities. A study guide is available from CONASET. After passing the theory test, candidates must also pass a practical driving test (prueba práctica) and a medical/psychometric exam.
Questions
Duration
Pass Mark
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Regulatory signs (señales reglamentarias)
- Warning signs (señales de advertencia de peligro)
- Informational signs (señales informativas)
- Traffic lights and road markings
- Pedestrian crossing rules
- Revisión técnica (vehicle inspection) requirements
- Seatbelt and child restraint laws
- Mandatory vehicle documents
- Insurance (SOAP) requirements
- First aid and emergency procedures
- Ley de Tránsito 18.290 key provisions
- Ley Emilia (zero tolerance BAC)
- Speed limit regulations by road type
- Right-of-way and overtaking rules
- Fines and licence suspension criteria
How to Get Your Chilean Driving Licence
From municipal office to licencia de conducir -- the complete process
- 1
Book an Appointment at the Municipalidad
Schedule a visit to your municipality's Departamento de Tránsito
Many municipalities now offer online booking. Bring your cédula de identidad (ID card) or passport for foreigners with valid visa.
- 2
Complete the Medical & Psychometric Exam
Pass the vision, hearing, and psychometric evaluation
Administered at the municipal office or authorized clinic. Tests reaction time, visual acuity, depth perception, and colour vision. Cost included in municipal fee.
- 3
Pass the Theory Test (Prueba Teórica)
Take the written multiple-choice exam on traffic rules and signs
~35 questions, 45 minutes, need ~80% correct. Study the CONASET manual. Available in Spanish; some municipalities offer English.
- 4
Pass the Practical Test (Prueba Práctica)
Demonstrate driving competency on a course and/or public roads
Evaluated on vehicle control, manoeuvres (parking, hill start, lane change), traffic law compliance, and road awareness.
- 5
Pay the Municipal Fee
Pay the total fee for licence processing
CLP 30,000-60,000 depending on municipality and licence class. Includes all tests, medical exam, and licence card.
- 6
Receive Your Licencia de Conducir
Collect your plastic card driving licence
Issued same day or within a few business days. Valid for 6 years (Class B, under 65). Must carry while driving.
Chilean Driving Licence Fees
All-inclusive municipal fees -- CLP 30,000-60,000 (~$30-60 USD) depending on municipality
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Medical & psychometric exam | Included |
| Theory test (prueba teórica) | Included |
| Practical test (prueba práctica) | Included |
| Licence issuance (Class B) | CLP 30,000-60,000 |
| Driving school (optional, ~20 hrs) | CLP 150,000-400,000 |
| Licence renewal (6-year) | CLP 20,000-40,000 |
| Total (without driving school) | CLP 30,000-60,000 |
Fees are set by each municipality (municipalidad) and include the medical exam, theory test, practical test, and licence card. Driving schools are optional but recommended. CLP 30,000-60,000 is approximately $30-60 USD at current exchange rates.
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- Class B -- Non-professional cars & light vehiclesMost common category18years
- Class C -- Motorcycles (2 & 3 wheeled)18years
- Class A1 -- Taxis (max 9 passengers)Professional licence20years
- Class A2 -- Transport vehicles 10-17 passengersProfessional licence20years
- Class A3 -- Unlimited passenger transportProfessional licence20years
- Class A4 -- Trucks over 3,500 kgProfessional licence20years
- Class A5 -- Articulated cargo over 3,500 kgProfessional licence20years
- Class D -- Agricultural & construction machinery18years
Licence Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| Class B (under 65)Standard renewal cycle | 6 years |
| Class B (65+)Medical exam required | 4 years |
| Class B (70+)Medical exam at each renewal | 2 years |
| Professional (C, D, A3-A5)Additional exams for renewal | 4 years |
Points System (Proposed)
- Chile does not currently have a national demerit points system
- A points-based system has been proposed and debated in Congress
- Currently, serious violations result in licence suspension by judicial order
- Accumulating multiple infractions can trigger a judicial review
- CONASET has recommended implementing a points system as part of road safety reform
Revisión Técnica (Vehicle Inspection)
- All vehicles must pass revisión técnica (annual technical inspection)
- New vehicles: first inspection at 2 years, then annually
- Covers emissions, brakes, lights, tyres, suspension, and safety equipment
- Performed at authorized Plantas de Revisión Técnica
- Driving without a valid revisión técnica sticker results in fines
Speed Limits in Chile
As per Ley de Tránsito 18.290 -- all speeds in km/h
Chile's speed limits are set by the Ley de Tránsito (Traffic Law 18.290), as amended by Ley 21.492 which reduced all urban limits to 50 km/h. In urban areas (zonas urbanas), the general limit is 50 km/h for all streets including avenues (avenidas). On rural roads (caminos rurales), the limit is 100 km/h. On motorways and autopistas (highways), the limit is 120 km/h. Near schools and hospitals, limits drop to 30 km/h. Speed enforcement includes both fixed cameras (fotorradares) and mobile speed controls by Carabineros de Chile.
| Road Type | Cars / Light Vehicles | Motorcycles | Trucks / Buses | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban streets | 50 | 50 | 50 | Residential areas |
| Urban avenues (avenidas) | 50 | 50 | 50 | Reduced to 50 by Ley 21.492 |
| Rural roads (caminos) | 100 | 100 | 90 | Two-lane country roads |
| Motorways (autopistas) | 120 | 120 | 100 | Dual carriageway, controlled access |
| School / Hospital zones | 30 | 30 | 30 | When signposted |
Urban streets
Cars / Light Vehicles: 50Motorcycles: 50Trucks / Buses: 50Residential areas
Urban avenues (avenidas)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 50Motorcycles: 50Trucks / Buses: 50Reduced to 50 by Ley 21.492
Rural roads (caminos)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 100Motorcycles: 100Trucks / Buses: 90Two-lane country roads
Motorways (autopistas)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 120Motorcycles: 120Trucks / Buses: 100Dual carriageway, controlled access
School / Hospital zones
Cars / Light Vehicles: 30Motorcycles: 30Trucks / Buses: 30When signposted
Posted signs always take precedence over default limits. Residential streets may have 40 km/h limits. Carabineros enforce speed limits using fixed and mobile radar. Fines increase substantially for exceeding limits by more than 20 km/h.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
As per Ley de Tránsito 18.290 and amendments -- fines in UTM (Unidad Tributaria Mensual)
Chilean traffic fines are measured in UTM (Unidad Tributaria Mensual), a tax unit that adjusts for inflation. As of March 2026, 1 UTM is approximately CLP 69,889 (~$70 USD per SII). Infractions are classified as leve (minor), menos grave (less serious), grave (serious), and gravísima (very serious). The Ley Emilia (Ley 20.770) established severe penalties for drunk driving causing death or injury, including mandatory imprisonment. Carabineros de Chile and municipal inspectors enforce traffic laws.
Up to 0.5 UTMUp to 1.5 UTMOver 1.5 UTM
| Violation | Category | Fine (UTM) | Approx. CLP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running a red light | Grave | 1-1.5 | 69,889-104,834 |
| DUI (0.03-0.08% BAC) | Gravísima | 3-10 | 209,667-698,890 |
| DUI (>0.08% BAC) | Gravísima | 5-20 | 349,445-1,397,780 |
| Speeding up to 10 km/h over | Menos grave | 0.5-1 | 34,945-69,889 |
| Speeding 11-20 km/h over | Grave | 1-1.5 | 69,889-104,834 |
| Speeding 20-60 km/h over | Gravísima | 1.5-3 | 104,834-209,667 |
| Using phone while driving | Grave | 1-1.5 | 69,889-104,834 |
| No seatbelt | Menos grave | 0.5-1 | 34,945-69,889 |
| Driving without licence | Gravísima | 3-5 | 209,667-349,445 |
| No revisión técnica | Grave | 1-1.5 | 69,889-104,834 |
| No SOAP insurance | Grave | 1-1.5 | 69,889-104,834 |
| Illegal parking | Leve | 0.2-0.5 | 13,978-34,945 |
| Hit-and-run (no injury) | Gravísima | 3-7 | 209,667-489,223 |
- 1-1.569,889-104,834
Running a red light
Grave - 3-10209,667-698,890
DUI (0.03-0.08% BAC)
Gravísima - 5-20349,445-1,397,780
DUI (>0.08% BAC)
Gravísima - 0.5-134,945-69,889
Speeding up to 10 km/h over
Menos grave - 1-1.569,889-104,834
Speeding 11-20 km/h over
Grave - 1.5-3104,834-209,667
Speeding 20-60 km/h over
Gravísima - 1-1.569,889-104,834
Using phone while driving
Grave - 0.5-134,945-69,889
No seatbelt
Menos grave - 3-5209,667-349,445
Driving without licence
Gravísima - 1-1.569,889-104,834
No revisión técnica
Grave - 1-1.569,889-104,834
No SOAP insurance
Grave - 0.2-0.513,978-34,945
Illegal parking
Leve - 3-7209,667-489,223
Hit-and-run (no injury)
Gravísima
Fines shown are from Ley de Tránsito 18.290 and amendments. 1 UTM = approximately CLP 69,889 (~$70 USD) as of March 2026 (SII). Gravísima offences may also include licence suspension (6-24 months) and imprisonment. Ley Emilia mandates minimum 1 year prison for DUI causing death.
Know These Rules Before Your Theory Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and the Ley de Tránsito are heavily tested in the Chilean prueba teórica. Practice with real exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Right
Chile uses right-hand traffic.
Overtake on the left. On multi-lane roads, use the right lane for slower traffic. Roundabouts flow anti-clockwise.
Ley Emilia (Zero Tolerance)
BAC limit of 0.03% for private drivers and 0.00% for professionals.
Causing death while intoxicated carries a mandatory minimum 1-year prison sentence under Ley 20.770. Named after 9-month-old Emilia Silva Figueroa, killed by a drunk driver in 2013.
Mandatory Seatbelts
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants (front and rear).
Children under 12 must sit in the rear. Children under 9 must use age-appropriate child restraint systems (sillas infantiles). Infants under 2 must use rear-facing seats.
Revisión Técnica
All vehicles must pass an annual technical inspection (revisión técnica) at authorized plants.
New vehicles are exempt for the first 2 years. Inspection covers emissions, brakes, lights, tyres, and safety equipment.
SOAP Insurance
Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes Personales (mandatory personal accident insurance) is required for all vehicles.
Covers injury to third parties. Must be current alongside the revisión técnica. No SOAP = vehicle cannot circulate legally.
TAG Electronic Toll
Santiago's urban motorways use TAG electronic toll collection.
Vehicles must have a TAG transponder for Costanera Norte, Vespucio Express, Autopista Central, and others. Non-TAG vehicles using autopistas receive invoices with surcharges. TAG is expanding to interurban highways.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld phone use is prohibited while driving.
Classified as a 'grave' infraction. Fine: 1-1.5 UTM (~CLP 69,889-104,834). Hands-free and Bluetooth are permitted. Texting while driving carries the same penalty.
Headlights On
Headlights must be on at all times when driving outside urban areas (carreteras and rural roads).
In urban areas, headlights are required from dusk to dawn. Daytime running lights (DRL) satisfy this requirement on newer vehicles.
Documents Required
Must carry: licencia de conducir, cédula de identidad, certificado de revisión técnica, SOAP insurance, and permiso de circulación (circulation permit/road tax).
Failure to produce any document results in fines.
Common Road Hazards in Chile
~1,600 road fatalities in 2024 (preliminary estimate) -- know these hazards to stay safe on Chilean roads
Seismic Damage
Chile is one of the most earthquake-prone countries on Earth. Roads, bridges, and tunnels can be damaged or blocked after seismic events. Always check road conditions after significant tremors.
Fog & Rain in Central Chile
Winter months (June-August) bring heavy fog (neblina) and rain to central Chile, especially on Ruta 5 between Santiago and Temuco. Visibility can drop to near zero.
Mountain Roads (Cordillera)
Andean passes like Paso Los Libertadores (Route 60) feature steep gradients, sharp switchbacks, and winter snow/ice. Chains required in winter. Altitude sickness possible above 3,000m.
Desert Roads (Norte Grande)
Northern Chile's Atacama Desert has long stretches with no services, extreme heat, and sandstorms. Carry extra water, fuel, and supplies. Distance between fuel stops can exceed 200 km.
Stray Animals
Rural roads across Chile, especially in the south (Araucanía, Los Lagos), have frequent animal crossings -- cattle, horses, dogs. Expect animals on the road at dawn and dusk.
Unpaved Rural Roads
Many secondary roads (caminos rurales) outside major highways are unpaved gravel (ripio). Loose gravel reduces traction. 4x4 recommended for Carretera Austral and remote areas.
Chile's 16 Regions
Driving licence administration is handled by the Departamento de Tránsito of each municipality within these 16 regions
- 1Arica y ParinacotaArica252K
- 2TarapacáIquique382K
- 3AntofagastaAntofagasta691K
- 4AtacamaCopiapó314K
- 5CoquimboLa Serena836K
- 6ValparaísoValparaíso1.9M
- 7MetropolitanaSantiago8.1M
- 8O'HigginsRancagua991K
- 9MauleTalca1.1M
- 10ÑubleChillán511K
- 11BiobíoConcepción1.6M
- 12AraucaníaTemuco1.0M
- 13Los RíosValdivia405K
- 14Los LagosPuerto Montt891K
- 15AysénCoyhaique107K
- 16MagallanesPunta Arenas178K
Chile has 16 administrative regions (regiones). Driving licences are issued by the municipal Departamento de Tránsito in each commune. Fees and exact test formats may vary between municipalities.
Myth: You need to attend a driving school to get a licence in Chile
Fact: Driving schools (escuelas de conducir) are NOT mandatory in Chile. You can learn privately and go directly to the municipal office for your exams. However, driving schools are recommended for preparation, and some municipalities may require them for first-time applicants under 20.
Myth: The BAC limit in Chile is zero for everyone
Fact: The limit is 0.03% BAC for private drivers -- not absolute zero. The term 'Tolerancia Cero' refers to the strict penalties, not a literal 0.00% limit. Only professional and commercial drivers must maintain 0.00% BAC. A small glass of wine could put you over 0.03%.
Myth: Chile has a demerit points system like Europe
Fact: Chile does NOT currently have a national demerit points system. While it has been proposed and debated in Congress, as of 2026 it has not been implemented. Serious violations are handled through licence suspension by judicial order.
Myth: Foreign driving licences are always valid in Chile
Fact: Tourists can drive in Chile with a valid foreign licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 90 days. After obtaining residency, you must convert to a Chilean licence within 30 days. Some countries have bilateral agreements allowing direct conversion.
Myth: Revisión técnica is just an emissions test
Fact: The revisión técnica is a comprehensive vehicle safety inspection covering brakes, tyres, lights, suspension, steering, bodywork, and emissions. It is much more than just emissions. Vehicles that fail must be repaired and re-inspected.
Myth: You can avoid Santiago toll fees by not having a TAG
Fact: Vehicles without a TAG that use Santiago's autopistas urbanas are identified by automatic cameras and receive invoices (boletas) with significant surcharges. Not having a TAG does not exempt you from payment -- it makes it more expensive.
Enhanced speed camera network expansion
CONASET and the Ministry of Transport expand the fixed speed camera (fotorradar) network on Ruta 5 and major interurban highways, with automated fine processing.
Updated child restraint requirements
Strengthened enforcement of child seat regulations. Children under 9 must use appropriate restraint systems. Rear-facing seats mandatory for children under 2.
TAG system expansion to interurban highways
The TAG electronic toll system extends beyond Santiago's urban motorways to key interurban toll roads, including sections of Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway).
Stricter penalties for repeat DUI offenders
Amendments increase prison sentences and licence suspension periods for repeat drunk driving offenders under the Ley Emilia framework.
Ley Emilia enacted (Ley 20.770)
Named after 9-month-old Emilia Silva Figueroa, killed by a drunk driver. Establishes mandatory minimum prison sentences for DUI causing death or serious injury. Lowers the BAC threshold and increases penalties.
Ley de Tolerancia Cero BAC limits
Chile lowers the legal BAC limit to 0.03% for private drivers and 0.00% for professionals, replacing the previous 0.05% threshold.
How Chile Compares Globally
Chile's driving regulations compared to other countries -- data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Chile | Argentina | Brazil | Mexico | Spain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.03% | 0.05% | 0.00% | 0.08% | 0.05% |
| Min. Age (Car) | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Driving Side | Right | Right | Right | Right | Right |
| Highway Speed | 120 | 120 | 110 | 110 | 120 |
| Test Questions | ~35 | ~30 | 30 | Varies | 30 |
| Licence Cost | ~$45 | ~$30 | ~$50 | ~$50 | ~€900 |
| Road Deaths/yr | ~1,600 | 5,400+ | 33,613 | 16,000+ | 1,790 |
| Deaths/100K | ~8.5 | ~11.8 | ~15.5 | ~12.5 | ~3.8 |
BAC Limit
Chile: 0.03%Argentina: 0.05%Brazil: 0.00%Mexico: 0.08%Spain: 0.05%Min. Age (Car)
Chile: 18Argentina: 18Brazil: 18Mexico: 18Spain: 18Driving Side
Chile: RightArgentina: RightBrazil: RightMexico: RightSpain: RightHighway Speed
Chile: 120Argentina: 120Brazil: 110Mexico: 110Spain: 120Test Questions
Chile: ~35Argentina: ~30Brazil: 30Mexico: VariesSpain: 30Licence Cost
Chile: ~$45Argentina: ~$30Brazil: ~$50Mexico: ~$50Spain: ~€900Road Deaths/yr
Chile: ~1,600Argentina: 5,400+Brazil: 33,613Mexico: 16,000+Spain: 1,790Deaths/100K
Chile: ~8.5Argentina: ~11.8Brazil: ~15.5Mexico: ~12.5Spain: ~3.8
Chile
Stricter than most Latin American countries. Argentina 0.05%, Brazil 0.00%, Mexico 0.08% (varies), Spain 0.05%.
Same as Argentina and Brazil. Mexico 18. Spain 18. Chile allows 17 with restrictions (accompanied).
Same as Argentina. Brazil 110, Mexico 110, Spain 120 km/h.
Very affordable at ~$45 USD. Argentina ~$30, Brazil ~R$100-300, Mexico ~$50, Spain ~EUR 700-1,200.
~8.5 per 100K -- among the lowest in Latin America. Argentina 5,400+, Brazil 33,000+, Mexico 16,000+, Spain 1,790.
Road deaths: Chile ~1,600 (CONASET 2024 est.), Argentina 5,400+ (ANSV 2023), Brazil 33,613 (DPRF 2023), Mexico 16,000+ (INEGI 2023), Spain 1,790 (DGT 2023). Per-capita rates: Chile ~8.5, Argentina ~11.8, Brazil ~15.5, Mexico ~12.5, Spain ~3.8 per 100K.
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 Chilean legislation and CONASET reports
- 2Cross-verified against Ministry of Transport publications, Carabineros data, and WHO reports
- 3Municipal variations noted where applicable (fees and test formats vary)
- 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 Chile?
A Chilean driving licence (licencia de conducir) costs approximately CLP 30,000-60,000 (~$30-60 USD), depending on the municipality. This all-inclusive fee covers the medical/psychometric exam, theory test (prueba teórica), practical test (prueba práctica), and licence card issuance. Driving schools are optional and cost CLP 150,000-400,000 (~$150-400) separately.
What is the Chilean theory test format?
The theory test (prueba teórica) consists of approximately 35 multiple-choice questions, to be completed within 45 minutes. You need approximately 80% correct (~28/35) to pass. The exam covers traffic signs, the Ley de Tránsito, speed limits, right-of-way, and road safety. The format may vary slightly between municipalities. The test is administered in Spanish; some municipalities offer English.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Chile?
Chile's BAC limit is 0.03% for private drivers under the Ley de Tolerancia Cero. Professional and commercial drivers must maintain 0.00% BAC. The Ley Emilia (Ley 20.770) mandates minimum 1 year imprisonment for DUI causing death. Fines range from 3-20 UTM (~CLP 195,000-1,300,000). Refusing a breathalyzer is treated as a gravísima offence.
What are the speed limits in Chile?
Urban streets: 50 km/h. Urban avenues (avenidas): 50 km/h (reduced from 60 by Ley 21.492). Rural roads: 100 km/h. Motorways/autopistas: 120 km/h. School/hospital zones: 30 km/h. Posted signs always take precedence. Speed enforcement uses fixed cameras (fotorradares) and mobile radar by Carabineros.
What are the emergency numbers in Chile?
Chile's emergency numbers: 133 -- Carabineros de Chile (Police). 132 -- Bomberos (Fire Department). 131 -- SAMU Ambulance. 134 -- PDI (Investigative Police). All are toll-free and available 24/7.
Can foreigners drive in Chile?
Tourists can drive in Chile with a valid foreign licence and International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 90 days. After obtaining residency (visa de residencia), you must convert to a Chilean licence within 30 days. Some countries have bilateral agreements for direct conversion without retaking tests.
What is the TAG toll system in Chile?
TAG is the electronic toll collection system used on Santiago's urban motorways (autopistas urbanas) like Costanera Norte, Vespucio Express, and Autopista Central. Vehicles mount a TAG transponder linked to a prepaid or postpaid account. Non-TAG vehicles are photographed and billed with surcharges. TAG is expanding to interurban toll highways including Ruta 5.
What is revisión técnica in Chile?
Revisión técnica is the mandatory annual vehicle inspection for all motor vehicles in Chile. It covers brakes, tyres, lights, emissions, suspension, steering, and safety equipment. New vehicles are exempt for the first 2 years. Inspections are performed at authorized Plantas de Revisión Técnica. Driving without a valid inspection results in a grave fine of 1-1.5 UTM.
Do I need a driving school in Chile?
Driving schools are NOT legally mandatory for most applicants in Chile. You can learn privately and take exams directly at the municipal Departamento de Tránsito. However, driving schools (~CLP 150,000-400,000 for ~20 hours) are recommended for preparation. Some municipalities may require school certificates for applicants under 20.
How long is a Chilean driving licence valid?
Class B (standard car licence): 6 years if under 65. 4 years for ages 65+. 2 years for 70 and above. Professional licences (C, D, A3-A5): 4 years. Each renewal requires a medical/psychometric exam.
What documents must I carry while driving in Chile?
You must always carry: licencia de conducir (driving licence), cédula de identidad (ID card), certificado de revisión técnica (vehicle inspection certificate), SOAP insurance certificate, and permiso de circulación (annual road tax/circulation permit). Failure to produce any document results in fines.
What is the minimum driving age in Chile?
The minimum age for a Class B licence is 18 years. Applicants aged 17 can obtain a restricted licence allowing them to drive accompanied by a licensed adult. Motorcycles (Class C): 18 years. Professional licences: 20 years for taxis (Class A1) and transport vehicles (Class A2-A5).
What is Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway)?
Ruta 5 is Chile's main north-south highway, forming part of the Pan-American Highway. It stretches over 3,300 km from Arica in the north to Puerto Montt in the south. Most sections are tolled and operated by concessionaires. The highway is divided and well-maintained, with a 120 km/h speed limit.
Are child seats required in Chile?
Yes. Children under 9 must use age-appropriate child restraint systems (sillas infantiles). Infants under 2 must use rear-facing seats. Children under 12 must sit in the rear of the vehicle. Penalties for non-compliance are classified as grave infractions.
Does Chile have a points system for driving violations?
No. Chile does not currently have a national demerit points system. A points-based system has been proposed and debated in the Chilean Congress but has not been implemented as of 2026. Currently, serious traffic violations result in licence suspension through judicial orders.
Cite This Page
Use the following citations when referencing this article in academic papers, journalism, or reports.
APA 7th Edition
AutoviaTest. (2026, March 27). Chile driving licence facts 2026 -- prueba teórica, fees, fines & rules. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/chile/facts
MLA 9th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Chile Driving Licence Facts 2026 -- Prueba Teórica, Fees, Fines & Rules." AutoviaTest, 27 Mar. 2026, autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/chile/facts.
Chicago 17th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Chile Driving Licence Facts 2026 -- Prueba Teórica, Fees, Fines & Rules." Last modified March 27, 2026. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/chile/facts.
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