Driving in Argentina
Complete guide for tourists and expats. Learn the road rules, speed limits, and essential information before you drive in Argentina.
Can You Drive in Argentina?
Accepted Licenses From
Validity Period: Foreign license with IDP valid for up to 1 year from entry
Important Note
Foreign driving licenses are accepted for tourists for up to 1 year. An IDP is recommended and may be required at police checkpoints and by rental agencies. An Inter-American Driving Permit is also accepted. Always carry your passport and original home license alongside the IDP.
What to Carry in Your Car
Mandatory Items
- Warning triangles (2 required)
- Fire extinguisher (1 kg minimum)
- First aid kit
- Spare tire with jack and tools
- Tow rope
- Reflective vest
- Valid driving license
Recommended Items
- Headlamp bulb kit
- Flashlight
- Extra water and provisions for remote Patagonia drives
Speed Limits
Urban Areas
km/h
Rural Roads
km/h
Highways/Motorways
km/h
Toll Roads
Payment Methods
Average Cost
ARS 500–5,000 per toll plaza on major highways around Buenos Aires; much less in rural areas
Toll highways (autopistas) are concentrated around Buenos Aires and between major cities. The Panamericana and Autopista Buenos Aires–La Plata are among the busiest. TelePASE is the electronic toll system.
Parking
Line Colors
Parking Tips
- In Buenos Aires, use the ParkiMóvil or Blinkay app for metered parking payment
- Trapitos (informal parking attendants) are common — they expect a tip of ARS 500–1,000 but have no legal authority
- Always park in well-lit, busy areas — avoid leaving your car on dark side streets overnight
Average Cost: ARS 500–2,000/hour in metered city zones; ARS 3,000–10,000/day in private parking garages in Buenos Aires
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
- 1Not carrying all mandatory items — police checkpoints are frequent and missing items result in fines
- 2Forgetting that headlights must be on at all times on highways and rural roads (day and night)
- 3Underestimating distances in Patagonia — gas stations can be 200–300 km apart
- 4Not knowing the right-of-way rule — vehicles approaching from the right have priority at uncontrolled intersections
Traffic Fines
Speeding
ARS 40,000–200,000+ depending on how much the limit is exceeded and province
No Seatbelt
ARS 30,000–80,000 (varies by province)
Phone Use
ARS 30,000–100,000 (varies by province)
Red Light
ARS 50,000–150,000 (varies by province)
Illegal Parking
ARS 20,000–60,000 depending on violation and municipality
Ready to Drive in Argentina?
Take a quick quiz to test your knowledge of the road rules.
Emergency Contacts
Police
101
Ambulance
107 (SAME)
Fire
100
Roadside Assistance
ACA (Automóvil Club Argentino): 0800-888-9888 — roadside assistance available 24/7 for members
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Want to Master Argentina Driving Rules?
Practice with our driving test questions and learn all the rules before you drive.
