Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Colombian Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your licencia de conduccion in Colombia — RUNT theory test format (~30 questions), training costs COP 500,000-1,500,000, comparendo system, near-zero BAC tolerance (0.02% since 2013), pico y placa restrictions, SOAT mandatory insurance, and 32 departments plus Bogota DC.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
Approximately 30 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
Must pass with at least 80% to proceed. Computer-based test administered at authorized Centros de Ensenanza Automovilistica (CEA). The test covers Codigo Nacional de Transito (Ley 769 de 2002, amended by Ley 2251 de 2022).
Total Cost
Approximately COP 500,000–1,500,000 total including driving school (COP 300,000–900,000), medical and psychotechnical exams (COP 150,000–250,000), RUNT registration fee, and licence issuance.
Costs vary significantly by city — Bogota, Medellin, and Cali tend to be higher. Motorcycle licences are generally cheaper.
Road Deaths
Approximately 8,546 fatalities in 2023 (~14 per 100,000 population), up from 8,469 in 2022.
Motorcyclists account for roughly 60% of all road deaths. Pedestrians represent about 25%. Colombia has one of the higher road fatality rates in Latin America, and the trend has been increasing.
Near-Zero BAC
Near-zero tolerance (0.02% BAC) for ALL drivers since Ley 1696 de 2013 ("grado cero" defined as 20–39 mg/100 ml).
Penalties include licence suspension (1–10 years), vehicle seizure, fines from ~COP 5.25 million (90 SMDLV), community service (20–60 hours), and potential criminal charges for injury or death. Colombia is one of the strictest in Latin America.
Comparendo System
Colombia uses a comparendo (traffic citation) system.
All violations are registered electronically in SIMIT (Sistema Integrado de Informacion sobre Multas y Sanciones por Infracciones de Transito). Fines are measured in SMDLV (salarios minimos diarios legales vigentes). Unpaid comparendos block licence renewal and vehicle registration.
Global Context
Colombia's road death rate (~14/100K) is higher than Mexico (~12/100K), similar to Brazil (~15/100K), and much higher than Spain (~3.7/100K) or Argentina (~12/100K).
Near-zero BAC (0.02%) is stricter than Mexico (0.08%), Brazil (0.05%), and Spain (0.05%). Pico y placa is a uniquely Colombian traffic management system.
Colombia Road Safety: 2-Year Trend (2022–2023)
Colombia's road fatalities increased from 8,469 in 2022 to 8,546 in 2023, continuing a concerning upward trend. Motorcycle-related fatalities remain the primary challenge, accounting for roughly 60% of deaths. The ANSV (Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial) coordinates national road safety strategy under the Plan Nacional de Seguridad Vial 2022–2031, but progress has been slow.
Year-over-year changes
Deaths per 100,000 Population
Brazil15- Colombia14
Mexico12
Argentina12
Spain3.7
Source: WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety, ANSV Colombia. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Colombian Theory Test Format
Computer-based theory test administered at authorized CEA (Centros de Ensenanza Automovilistica) across Colombia
The Colombian driving theory test consists of approximately 30 multiple-choice questions covering the Codigo Nacional de Transito (Ley 769 de 2002, as amended), road signs, safe driving practices, basic mechanics, and first aid. To pass, you must score at least 80%. The test is administered digitally at authorized CEA driving schools. Questions are drawn from the national curriculum established by MinTransporte. All driving schools must be registered with RUNT (Registro Unico Nacional de Transito). The theory component is part of a mandatory training course that also includes practical driving instruction.
Questions
Duration
Pass Mark
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Colombian traffic signs, signals & road markings
- Right-of-way rules at intersections & roundabouts
- Speed limits by zone and vehicle type
- Prohibited actions & traffic violations (comparendos)
- Pedestrian & cyclist safety rules
- Vehicle inspection (revision tecnico-mecanica)
- SOAT mandatory insurance requirements
- Seatbelt & child restraint regulations
- Emergency procedures & basic first aid
- Environmental regulations & emission controls
- Pico y placa restrictions by city
- Zero BAC tolerance & alcohol penalties
- Mountain road driving & altitude considerations
- Motorcycle-specific rules & safety
- Defensive driving techniques
How to Get Your Colombian Driving Licence
From driving school enrolment to licencia de conduccion — the complete process
- 1
Choose an Authorized CEA
Select a RUNT-registered Centro de Ensenanza Automovilistica (driving school)
Verify the CEA is authorized by MinTransporte and registered in RUNT. Compare prices — they vary significantly. All CEAs must follow the national curriculum.
- 2
Pass Medical & Psychotechnical Exams
Complete mandatory health assessments at a CRC (Centro de Reconocimiento de Conductores)
Includes vision test, hearing test, physical coordination, and psychotechnical evaluation. Cost: COP 150,000–250,000. Certificate valid for the licence duration.
- 3
Complete Theory Training
Attend the mandatory theory course at your CEA
Covers traffic laws (Codigo Nacional de Transito), road signs, defensive driving, first aid, and environmental awareness. Approximately 30–40 hours.
- 4
Pass the Theory Test
Take the computer-based theory exam at the CEA
Approximately 30 questions, must score 80%+. Covers all theory course topics. Can retake if failed.
- 5
Complete Practical Training
Log the required practical driving hours with a CEA instructor
Minimum practical hours vary by category. Car (B1): approximately 20–30 hours. Includes road driving, parking, hill starts. Motorcycle (A2): approximately 16 hours.
- 6
Pass the Practical Driving Test
Demonstrate driving skills in a closed course and/or road test
Evaluated on vehicle control, traffic rule compliance, and safe driving. Conducted by the CEA.
- 7
Register in RUNT & Receive Licence
Complete RUNT registration and receive your licencia de conduccion
Submit all certificates to the local Secretaria de Movilidad or transit authority. RUNT registration fee applies. Licence issued in credit-card format. Valid for 5–10 years depending on age.
Colombian Driving Licence Fees
Total cost COP 500,000–1,500,000 — varies by city, driving school, and licence category
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Driving school (CEA) — theory + practical | COP 300,000–900,000 |
| Medical & psychotechnical exam (CRC) | COP 150,000–250,000 |
| RUNT registration fee | COP 50,000–80,000 |
| Licence issuance (Secretaria de Movilidad) | COP 80,000–150,000 |
| Photos & documentation | COP 15,000–30,000 |
| SOAT (first year, car) | COP 600,000–1,200,000 |
| Revision tecnico-mecanica (annual) | COP 200,000–350,000 |
| Total for Licence (excl. SOAT & RTM) | COP 500,000–1,500,000 |
Prices vary significantly by city and driving school. Bogota and large cities tend to be more expensive. SOAT and revision tecnico-mecanica are ongoing costs, not one-time licence fees. Motorcycle licences are generally 30–50% cheaper than car licences.
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- A1 — Motorcycles up to 125cc16years
- A2 — Motorcycles over 125cc16years
- B1 — Cars up to 3,500 kg, max 9 passengersMost common category16years
- B2 — Ambulances, emergency vehiclesSpecial training required16years
- B3 — Taxis, public transport (up to 9 pax)Requires B1 + experience18years
- C1 — Trucks 3,500–7,500 kg18years
- C2 — Trucks 7,500–10,500 kg18years
- C3 — Trucks over 10,500 kg + articulated18years
Licence Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| All categories (age under 60)Standard validity since Ley 2251/2022 | 10 years |
| All categories (age 60–79)Medical re-examination required | 5 years |
| All categories (age 80+)Annual medical exam required | 1 year |
| Public service (B2, B3, C1–C3)Stricter medical requirements | 3 years |
Comparendo & Penalty System
- Violations issued as comparendos registered in SIMIT
- Fines measured in SMDLV (daily legal minimum wages)
- Accumulated serious violations lead to licence suspension
- Unpaid comparendos block licence renewal & vehicle registration
- 6 months licence suspension for DUI first offence
SOAT Insurance Requirements
- SOAT (Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Transito) is mandatory for all vehicles
- Must be purchased annually — covers accident victims
- No SOAT = vehicle seized + fine of 30 SMDLV
- Available from authorized insurers (Seguros del Estado, Previsora, etc.)
- Covers medical expenses, funeral costs, and disability for accident victims
Speed Limits in Colombia
As per Codigo Nacional de Transito (Ley 769/2002, amended) — all speeds in km/h
Colombia's speed limits vary by zone type. In urban residential areas, the limit is 30 km/h. In urban zones, the general limit is 60 km/h for cars. On rural roads, cars are limited to 80 km/h. On autopistas (highways), the maximum is 120 km/h for cars, with some sections posted at 100 km/h. School zones are limited to 30 km/h. Motorcycles follow the same limits. Speed cameras (fotomultas) are widespread in major cities including Bogota, Medellin, and Cali.
| Zone Type | Cars / Light Vehicles | Motorcycles | Trucks / Buses | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban residential / School zone | 30 | 30 | 30 | Zonas residenciales y escolares |
| Urban general | 60 | 60 | 60 | Vias urbanas generales |
| Rural roads | 80 | 80 | 80 | Carreteras secundarias |
| Highway (autopista) | 100 | 100 | 80 | Autopistas nacionales |
| Highway (fast sections) | 120 | 120 | 100 | Autopistas 4G / troncales |
Urban residential / School zone
Cars / Light Vehicles: 30Motorcycles: 30Trucks / Buses: 30Zonas residenciales y escolares
Urban general
Cars / Light Vehicles: 60Motorcycles: 60Trucks / Buses: 60Vias urbanas generales
Rural roads
Cars / Light Vehicles: 80Motorcycles: 80Trucks / Buses: 80Carreteras secundarias
Highway (autopista)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 100Motorcycles: 100Trucks / Buses: 80Autopistas nacionales
Highway (fast sections)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 120Motorcycles: 120Trucks / Buses: 100Autopistas 4G / troncales
Posted speed signs always take precedence over general limits. Speed cameras (fotomultas) are widespread in Bogota, Medellin, Cali, and Barranquilla. Fines for exceeding the limit by 20+ km/h can reach 15 SMDLV. School zone limits apply within 200m of educational institutions.
Traffic Fines & Comparendos
Fines measured in SMDLV (Salario Minimo Diario Legal Vigente) — 1 SMDLV = COP ~58,364 in 2026
Colombia's traffic fine system uses comparendos (citations) registered electronically in SIMIT. Fines are measured in SMDLV (daily minimum wages). As of 2026, 1 SMDLV is approximately COP 58,364 (based on salario minimo of COP 1,750,905/month). Fines range from 4 SMDLV for minor infractions to 90 SMDLV for serious violations such as DUI. DUI under near-zero tolerance results in automatic licence suspension, vehicle seizure, and fines. Speed cameras (fotomultas) are increasingly common in major cities. Unpaid comparendos prevent licence renewal and vehicle registration transfer.
Up to 8 SMDLVUp to 15 SMDLVOver 15 SMDLV
| Violation | Fine (SMDLV) | Approx. COP | Additional Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running red light | 15 | ~875K | Immobilization |
| DUI — BAC at or above 0.02% | 90 | ~5.25M | Suspension + seizure |
| Speeding 20+ km/h over | 15 | ~875K | Immobilization |
| Speeding 10–20 km/h over | 8 | ~467K | — |
| Using phone while driving | 8 | ~467K | — |
| No seatbelt | 8 | ~467K | — |
| No SOAT insurance | 30 | ~1.75M | Vehicle seized |
| Expired revision tecnico-mecanica | 8 | ~467K | Immobilization |
| Violating pico y placa | 15 | ~875K | Varies by city |
| No helmet (motorcycle) | 15 | ~875K | Immobilization |
| Driving without licence | 30 | ~1.75M | Vehicle seized |
| Passing in prohibited zone | 15 | ~875K | Immobilization |
- 15Immobilization
Running red light
~875K - 90Suspension + seizure
DUI — BAC at or above 0.02%
~5.25M - 15Immobilization
Speeding 20+ km/h over
~875K - 8—
Speeding 10–20 km/h over
~467K - 8—
Using phone while driving
~467K - 8—
No seatbelt
~467K - 30Vehicle seized
No SOAT insurance
~1.75M - 8Immobilization
Expired revision tecnico-mecanica
~467K - 15Varies by city
Violating pico y placa
~875K - 15Immobilization
No helmet (motorcycle)
~875K - 30Vehicle seized
Driving without licence
~1.75M - 15Immobilization
Passing in prohibited zone
~875K
SMDLV value for 2026: approximately COP 58,364 (based on salario minimo of COP 1,750,905/month). First-offense DUI ("grado cero", 0.02–0.039% BAC) carries a 90 SMDLV fine (~COP 5.25M). DUI penalties per Ley 1696/2013 include licence suspension (1–10 years), vehicle seizure, community service (20–60 hours), and potential criminal charges. Fotomulta (speed camera) fines are delivered electronically.
Know These Rules Before Your Theory Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and the comparendo system are heavily tested in the Colombian driving theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Right
Colombia uses right-hand traffic.
Overtake on the left. At roundabouts, traffic already in the roundabout has priority. Left-turning vehicles must yield to oncoming traffic.
Near-Zero BAC Tolerance
Near-zero tolerance (0.02% BAC, "grado cero") for ALL drivers since Ley 1696 de 2013.
First-offense fine is 90 SMDLV (~COP 5.25 million at 2026 rates). Penalties include licence suspension (1–10 years), vehicle seizure, and 20–60 hours of community service. Criminal charges if injury or death results.
SOAT Mandatory Insurance
Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Transito (SOAT) must be purchased annually for every vehicle.
Covers accident victims' medical expenses, disability, and funeral costs. No SOAT = vehicle seized + 30 SMDLV fine.
Pico y Placa Restrictions
Major cities (Bogota, Medellin, Cali, Barranquilla) enforce pico y placa — driving restrictions based on licence plate number and day of the week.
Check local rules as they vary by city and change periodically.
Mandatory Helmet Law
Helmets mandatory for all motorcycle riders and passengers.
Must be DOT/NTC-certified with chin strap fastened. Reflective vest also required for motorcycle riders. Fine: 15 SMDLV + vehicle immobilization for non-compliance.
Seatbelts & Child Seats
Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants (front and rear).
Children under 10 must ride in the back seat. Children under 2 must use approved child safety seats. Fine: 8 SMDLV for non-compliance.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld phone use prohibited while driving.
Hands-free devices are permitted. Fine: 8 SMDLV. Even holding a phone at a red light can result in a comparendo.
Revision Tecnico-Mecanica
Annual vehicle inspection (revision tecnico-mecanica) is mandatory for all vehicles 6+ years old.
New vehicles are exempt for the first 6 years. Covers emissions, brakes, lights, suspension. Fine for expired: 8 SMDLV + immobilization.
Headlights on Highways
Headlights must be on at all times on rural roads and highways (autopistas), day and night.
Motorcycles must always have headlights on regardless of road type. Fine: 4 SMDLV.
Common Road Hazards in Colombia
~8,546 road fatalities in 2023 — know these hazards to stay safe on Colombian roads
Motorcycle Traffic
Motorcycles represent over 50% of registered vehicles and are involved in ~60% of fatal crashes. Lane splitting, weaving, and running red lights are common — especially in cities like Bogota and Medellin
Mountain Roads
Colombia's Andean geography means many roads have steep gradients, hairpin turns, and sudden fog. The road from Bogota to Bucaramanga and the Ruta del Sol feature challenging mountain passes
Landslides & Flooding
Heavy rains (especially April-May and October-November) trigger landslides (derrumbes) that block roads for hours or days. Flash flooding in low-lying areas is common
Unpaved Roads
Only about 25% of Colombia's road network is paved. Rural roads (especially in Choco, Putumayo, Amazonas) can be impassable during rainy season
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving, tailgating, and improper overtaking are common, especially by buses and trucks on mountain roads. Defensive driving is essential
Pedestrians & Animals
In rural and semi-urban areas, pedestrians, cyclists, horse carts, and livestock on the road are common — particularly after dark when visibility is poor
Colombia's Key Departments & Cities
Driving licence administration is handled by the Secretaria de Movilidad or Secretaria de Transito in each of 32 departments plus Bogota DC
- 1Bogota D.C.BogotaDistrict7.9M
- 2AntioquiaMedellinDepartment6.9M
- 3Valle del CaucaCaliDepartment4.8M
- 4AtlanticoBarranquillaDepartment2.7M
- 5CundinamarcaBogotaDepartment3.2M
- 6SantanderBucaramangaDepartment2.3M
- 7BolivarCartagenaDepartment2.2M
- 8Norte de SantanderCucutaDepartment1.6M
- 9TolimaIbagueDepartment1.4M
- 10BoyacaTunjaDepartment1.3M
Colombia has 32 departments plus the Capital District of Bogota DC. Driving licence testing and issuance is administered by local transit authorities (Secretaria de Movilidad/Transito). Fees and procedures may vary slightly by jurisdiction. All licences are registered centrally in RUNT.
Myth: You can have one beer and still legally drive in Colombia
Fact: Colombia has near-zero tolerance (0.02% BAC, "grado cero") since 2013. Any BAC at or above 0.02% results in licence suspension, vehicle seizure, and first-offense fines of 90 SMDLV (~COP 5.25 million). This is one of the strictest policies in the Americas.
Myth: Pico y placa is the same in all Colombian cities
Fact: Each city sets its own pico y placa rules. Bogota, Medellin, Cali, and Barranquilla all have different schedules, plate number restrictions, hours, and exemptions. Always check local rules when traveling between cities.
Myth: You do not need SOAT if you drive carefully
Fact: SOAT is mandatory for ALL registered vehicles regardless of driving record. It covers third-party accident victims, not your own vehicle. Driving without valid SOAT results in vehicle seizure plus a 30 SMDLV fine (~COP 1.75 million).
Myth: Speed cameras (fotomultas) can be contested easily
Fact: Fotomultas are legally binding and difficult to contest. They are registered automatically in SIMIT and must be paid within 5 business days for a 50% discount, or within 30 days at full price. Unpaid fines accumulate interest and block licence/vehicle procedures.
Myth: An international driving permit is sufficient to drive long-term in Colombia
Fact: An IDP or valid foreign licence is accepted for tourists for up to 3–6 months depending on visa type. After establishing residency (cedula de extranjeria), you must obtain a Colombian licence. Some rental companies may require a Colombian licence regardless.
Myth: Motorcycles do not need the revision tecnico-mecanica
Fact: ALL motor vehicles including motorcycles must pass the annual revision tecnico-mecanica after the first 6 years. Motorcycles are inspected at authorized CDAs (Centros de Diagnostico Automotor). Fine: 8 SMDLV + immobilization.
Recent Changes to Colombian Driving Laws
Key regulatory updates affecting drivers in Colombia
Electric vehicle incentives expanded
Enhanced tax exemptions and reduced SOAT rates for electric and hybrid vehicles. Bogota exempts EVs from pico y placa permanently. Government aims for 600,000 EVs by 2030.
RUNT digital licence pilot
MinTransporte pilots digital driving licence accessible via RUNT app. Physical card remains valid but digital version accepted for most purposes. Full rollout expected 2027.
Ley 2251 — Codigo de Transito reform
Major reform of the Codigo Nacional de Transito: increased fines for DUI and speeding, mandatory child seats, enhanced cyclist protections, and updated licence validity periods (10 years for under-60s).
Plan Nacional de Seguridad Vial 2022–2031
ANSV launched 10-year road safety plan targeting 50% reduction in road fatalities by 2031. Focus on vulnerable road users (motorcyclists, pedestrians, cyclists).
ANSV established as independent agency
The Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial (ANSV) was restructured as an independent government agency to coordinate road safety policy, data collection, and enforcement strategies across Colombia's 32 departments.
Ley 1696 — Near-zero BAC tolerance enacted
Near-zero tolerance for blood alcohol (0.02% BAC, "grado cero") for all drivers. Made Colombia one of the strictest countries in the Americas. Penalties include automatic licence suspension, vehicle seizure, fines of 90 SMDLV, and community service.
How Colombia Compares Globally
Colombia's driving regulations compared to other countries — data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Colombia | Mexico | Brazil | Argentina | Spain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.02% | 0.08% | 0.05% | 0.05% | 0.05% |
| Min. Age (Car) | 16/18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 18 |
| Driving Side | Right | Right | Right | Right | Right |
| Highway Speed | 120 | 110 | 110 | 130 | 120 |
| Test Questions | ~30 | ~20 | 30 | ~30 | 30 |
| Licence Cost | ~COP 1M | ~$2,000 MXN | ~R$2,500 | ~$10,000 ARS | ~€1,500 |
| Road Deaths/yr | ~8,546 | ~16,000 | ~33,000 | ~5,500 | ~1,800 |
| Deaths/100K | ~14.0 | ~12.0 | ~15.0 | ~12.0 | ~3.7 |
BAC Limit
Colombia: 0.02%Mexico: 0.08%Brazil: 0.05%Argentina: 0.05%Spain: 0.05%Min. Age (Car)
Colombia: 16/18Mexico: 18Brazil: 18Argentina: 17Spain: 18Driving Side
Colombia: RightMexico: RightBrazil: RightArgentina: RightSpain: RightHighway Speed
Colombia: 120Mexico: 110Brazil: 110Argentina: 130Spain: 120Test Questions
Colombia: ~30Mexico: ~20Brazil: 30Argentina: ~30Spain: 30Licence Cost
Colombia: ~COP 1MMexico: ~$2,000 MXNBrazil: ~R$2,500Argentina: ~$10,000 ARSSpain: ~€1,500Road Deaths/yr
Colombia: ~8,546Mexico: ~16,000Brazil: ~33,000Argentina: ~5,500Spain: ~1,800Deaths/100K
Colombia: ~14.0Mexico: ~12.0Brazil: ~15.0Argentina: ~12.0Spain: ~3.7
Colombia
Near-zero tolerance ("grado cero") — strictest in the region. Mexico 0.08%, Brazil 0.05%, Argentina 0.05%, Spain 0.05%.
16 with restrictions, 18 for full licence. Mexico 18, Brazil 18, Argentina 17, Spain 18.
Same as Spain. Mexico 110, Brazil 110, Argentina 130 km/h.
Approximately $250 USD total. Mexico ~$100, Brazil ~$500, Argentina ~$50, Spain ~$1,500.
~14 per 100K (2023, increasing). Mexico ~16K (~12/100K), Brazil ~33K (~15/100K), Argentina ~5.5K (~12/100K), Spain ~1.8K (~3.7/100K).
Road deaths: Colombia ~8,546 (ANSV 2023), Mexico ~16,000 (INEGI 2023), Brazil ~33,000 (DATASUS 2023), Argentina ~5,500 (ANSV-AR 2023), Spain ~1,800 (DGT 2023). Per-capita rates from WHO and national sources. Costs are approximate and vary by region.
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 Colombian legislation and government decrees
- 2Cross-verified against MinTransporte data, ANSV reports, and WHO global data
- 3Regional variations noted where applicable (fees and pico y placa rules differ by city)
- 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 Colombia?
Total cost ranges from COP 500,000 to 1,500,000 depending on city and driving school. This includes: CEA training (COP 300,000–900,000), medical/psychotechnical exams at a CRC (COP 150,000–250,000), RUNT registration (COP 50,000–80,000), and licence issuance (COP 80,000–150,000). Bogota and major cities tend to be more expensive. Motorcycle licences are generally cheaper.
What is the Colombian theory test format?
Approximately 30 multiple-choice questions covering the Codigo Nacional de Transito, road signs, safe driving, basic mechanics, and first aid. Must score at least 80% to pass. Administered digitally at authorized CEA driving schools. Questions follow the national MinTransporte curriculum.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Colombia?
Colombia enforces near-zero tolerance (0.02% BAC, "grado cero") for all drivers since Ley 1696 de 2013. Any BAC at or above 0.02% results in licence suspension (1–10 years depending on severity), vehicle seizure, first-offense fine of 90 SMDLV (~COP 5.25 million at 2026 rates), and 20–60 hours of community service. Causing injury or death while DUI carries criminal charges.
What are the speed limits in Colombia?
Urban residential/school zones: 30 km/h. Urban general: 60 km/h. Rural roads: 80 km/h. Highways (autopistas): 100–120 km/h. Posted speed signs always take precedence. Speed cameras (fotomultas) are widespread in major cities.
What are the emergency numbers in Colombia?
123 — National Emergency (Police). 119 — Fire Department. 132 — Ambulance/Red Cross. 144 — Civil Defence. #767 — Transit Police. All are toll-free and available 24/7.
What is pico y placa?
Pico y placa is a driving restriction based on licence plate numbers that limits when certain vehicles can circulate in major cities. Each city has different rules. In Bogota, vehicles are restricted on certain days based on the last digit of their licence plate, typically during peak hours (6:00–8:30 and 15:00–19:30). Electric vehicles are exempt.
What is SOAT and is it mandatory?
SOAT (Seguro Obligatorio de Accidentes de Transito) is Colombia's mandatory third-party accident insurance for all registered vehicles. It covers medical expenses, disability, and funeral costs for accident victims. Must be renewed annually. Costs COP 600,000–1,200,000 for cars. Driving without valid SOAT results in vehicle seizure and a 30 SMDLV fine.
Can foreigners drive in Colombia?
Tourists can drive with a valid foreign licence or International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to 3–6 months depending on visa type. After establishing residency (cedula de extranjeria), you must obtain a Colombian licence. The licence conversion process requires passing medical exams and potentially the theory/practical tests depending on your home country.
What is the minimum driving age in Colombia?
16 years old for a restricted car licence (B1 with parental consent and restrictions). 18 years old for a full unrestricted car licence. Motorcycle licences (A1 for up to 125cc) available from 16. Commercial categories (C1, C2, C3) require being 18+ with relevant lower-category experience.
How long is a Colombian driving licence valid?
10 years for drivers under 60 (since Ley 2251/2022). 5 years for ages 60–79. 1 year for ages 80+. Public service categories (B2, B3, C1–C3) are valid for 3 years. Renewal requires passing medical/psychotechnical exams again.
What is the revision tecnico-mecanica?
The revision tecnico-mecanica is Colombia's mandatory annual vehicle inspection for all vehicles 6+ years old. It checks emissions, brakes, lights, suspension, tires, and overall vehicle safety. Conducted at authorized CDAs (Centros de Diagnostico Automotor). Costs COP 200,000–350,000. Driving with an expired inspection results in an 8 SMDLV fine + immobilization.
What documents must I carry while driving in Colombia?
You must always carry: valid driving licence (licencia de conduccion), vehicle registration (tarjeta de propiedad), valid SOAT certificate, current revision tecnico-mecanica certificate (if vehicle 6+ years), and identification (cedula or passport). Failure to produce these results in fines and potential vehicle immobilization.
How do fotomultas (speed cameras) work in Colombia?
Fotomultas are automated cameras that detect speeding, red-light running, and other violations. Citations are registered in SIMIT and sent to the vehicle owner. You get a 50% discount if paid within 5 business days of notification, or full price within 30 days. After 30 days, interest accrues. Unpaid fotomultas block licence renewal and vehicle transfer.
Is Bogota bicycle-friendly?
Yes, Bogota has one of the most extensive urban cycling networks in Latin America — over 550 km of ciclovias (dedicated bike lanes). Every Sunday and holiday, 120+ km of main roads are closed to cars for Ciclovia recreational cycling (7am–2pm). The city has the largest bike-sharing system in Latin America (BiciTEC). Cyclists have protected legal status under Ley 2251/2022.
What are comparendos and how does SIMIT work?
Comparendos are formal traffic citations issued by transit police or automatically by fotomultas. All comparendos are registered in SIMIT (Sistema Integrado de Informacion sobre Multas), a national database. You can check your status at simit.org.co. Fines are measured in SMDLV (~COP 58,364 each in 2026). Early payment (within 5 days) gets a 50% discount. Accumulated unpaid fines block all licence and vehicle procedures.
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APA 7th Edition
AutoviaTest. (2026, March 27). Colombia driving licence facts 2026 — Theory test, fees, fines & rules. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/colombia/facts
MLA 9th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Colombia Driving Licence Facts 2026 — Theory Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." AutoviaTest, 27 Mar. 2026, autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/colombia/facts.
Chicago 17th Edition
AutoviaTest. "Colombia Driving Licence Facts 2026 — Theory Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." Last modified March 27, 2026. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/colombia/facts.
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