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
Effective July 1, 2026
Before
Euro 5 equivalent
New vehicles had to meet Euro 5 equivalent emission standards
After (2026)
Euro 6 equivalent required
All new light vehicles must meet Euro 6 equivalent emission standards, reducing NOx emissions by up to 56% compared to Euro 5
Chile is aligning with stricter global emission standards. From July 2026, all new cars must meet Euro 6 equivalent limits. This primarily affects manufacturers and importers, but drivers should know that newer vehicles will have cleaner exhaust systems.
Penalties & Fines
Effective March 1, 2026
Before
Limited camera coverage
Speed cameras deployed mainly in urban areas and select highway sections
After (2026)
Nationwide highway coverage
New fixed and mobile speed cameras installed on all major autopistas and Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway) with average speed detection
Average speed cameras are being rolled out on Ruta 5 and major autopistas. These calculate your speed between two points, so slowing down at the camera then speeding up won't work. Maintain the speed limit consistently.
Safety Rules
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
ABS required, ESC optional
Anti-lock braking required but electronic stability control was not mandatory for all vehicle categories
After (2026)
ESC and ABS mandatory
All new passenger vehicles and light trucks must have both ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard equipment
ESC is now mandatory on all new cars sold in Chile. This system helps prevent skidding and loss of control, especially in wet conditions or sharp turns. It's one of the most effective safety technologies available.
Penalties & Fines
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
1 UTM fine
Using 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 suspension
Fines increased to 1.5-3 UTM; repeat offenders face 45-day license suspension and mandatory road safety course
Chile has significantly increased penalties for phone use while driving. A first offense now costs up to 3 UTM (around CLP 195,000), and repeat offenders face license suspension. Use hands-free or pull over safely.
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: February 1, 2026
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