Chile strengthens road safety in 2026 with new vehicle emission regulations aligned with Euro 6 standards, expanded speed camera networks on major highways, mandatory advanced safety features for new vehicles, and updated penalties for distracted driving.
Environmental zones
Before
Euro 5 equivalentNew vehicles had to meet Euro 5 equivalent emission standards
After (2026)
Euro 6 equivalent requiredAll new light vehicles must meet Euro 6 equivalent emission standards, reducing NOx emissions by up to 56% compared to Euro 5
Penalties & fines
Before
Limited camera coverageSpeed cameras deployed mainly in urban areas and select highway sections
After (2026)
Nationwide highway coverageNew fixed and mobile speed cameras installed on all major autopistas and Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway) with average speed detection
Safety rules
Before
ABS required, ESC optionalAnti-lock braking required but electronic stability control was not mandatory for all vehicle categories
After (2026)
ESC and ABS mandatoryAll new passenger vehicles and light trucks must have both ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard equipment
Penalties & fines
Before
1 UTM fineUsing a mobile phone while driving resulted in a fine of approximately 1 UTM (around CLP 65,000)
After (2026)
1.5-3 UTM fine + license suspensionFines increased to 1.5-3 UTM; repeat offenders face 45-day license suspension and mandatory road safety course
From July 2026, all new light vehicles sold in Chile must meet Euro 6 equivalent emission standards. This reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by up to 56% compared to the previous Euro 5 level. Existing vehicles are not affected, but new imports and domestically sold vehicles must comply.
Yes. Chile is expanding its speed camera network to cover all major autopistas and the Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway) with both fixed and mobile cameras. New average speed detection systems measure your speed between two points, making it impossible to avoid fines by braking only near cameras.
From January 2026, all new passenger vehicles and light trucks must have both ABS (anti-lock braking system) and ESC (electronic stability control) as standard. ESC helps prevent skidding and loss of control and is considered one of the most effective vehicle safety technologies.
Penalties have increased significantly. A first offense now carries a fine of 1.5-3 UTM (approximately CLP 97,500-195,000). Repeat offenders face a 45-day license suspension and must complete a mandatory road safety course. Only hands-free devices are permitted while driving.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: 1 February 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
