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🇨🇴Complete Guide 2026Updated March 2026

Colombian 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, zero BAC tolerance (0.00% since 2013), pico y placa restrictions, SOAT mandatory insurance, and 32 departments plus Bogota DC.

33
Departments + Bogota DC
~30
Test Questions
~7,800
Road Deaths (2024)
0.00%
BAC Zero Tolerance
33 DepartmentsFee BreakdownSpeed LimitsComparendo FinesLicence Categories
Copy

~7,800

Road deaths in Colombia (2024)

Rate ~14 per 100,000 — motorcyclists account for ~50% of fatalities

Copy

0.00%

Blood alcohol limit — zero tolerance

Since Ley 1696 de 2013 — strictest in Latin America

Copy

COP 500K–1.5M

Licence cost (training + fees)

Varies by city — Bogota tends to be higher

Click any card to copy the stat with source attribution

Key Findings

Theory TestMinTransporte / RUNT

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 CostMinTransporte

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 DeathsANSV / WHO

Approximately 7,800 fatalities in 2024 (~14 per 100,000 population). Motorcyclists account for roughly 50% of all road deaths. Pedestrians represent about 25%. Colombia has one of the higher road fatality rates in Latin America, though it has been gradually declining.

Zero BACLey 1696/2013

Absolute zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for ALL drivers since Ley 1696 de 2013. Penalties include licence suspension (1–10 years), vehicle seizure, fines from COP 1,442,000, community service (20–60 hours), and potential criminal charges for injury or death. Colombia is one of the strictest in Latin America.

Comparendo SystemSIMIT / MinTransporte

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 ContextWHO / ANSV

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). Zero BAC 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: 3-Year Trend (2022–2024)

Colombia has made gradual progress in road safety, though motorcycle-related fatalities remain the primary challenge. The ANSV (Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial) coordinates national road safety strategy under the Plan Nacional de Seguridad Vial 2022–2031. Enhanced enforcement of zero BAC and speed cameras in major cities have contributed to modest improvements.

2022
8.200
2023
8.000
2024
7.800

2022→2023

-2.4%

2023→2024

-2.5%

Deaths per 100,000 Population

🇧🇷Brazil
15
🇨🇴Colombia
14
🇲🇽Mexico
12
🇦🇷Argentina
12
🇪🇸Spain
3.7

Source: WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety, ANSV Colombia. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.

Table of Contents

Road Safety DataTheory Test FormatLicence ProcessFeesLicence CategoriesSpeed LimitsTraffic FinesImportant RulesRoad HazardsDepartmentsEmergency NumbersMisconceptionsRecent ChangesGlobal ComparisonFAQSourcesCite This Page
Theory Exam

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

~30 MCQs

From national curriculum

Duration

45 Min

Approx. 1.5 min per question

Pass Mark

80%

~24/30 correct

Test Fee

Included

Part of CEA training package

What the Theory Test Covers

Traffic Laws & Signs
  • 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 & Safety
  • Vehicle inspection (revision tecnico-mecanica)
  • SOAT mandatory insurance requirements
  • Seatbelt & child restraint regulations
  • Emergency procedures & basic first aid
  • Environmental regulations & emission controls
Special Situations
  • Pico y placa restrictions by city
  • Zero BAC tolerance & alcohol penalties
  • Mountain road driving & altitude considerations
  • Motorcycle-specific rules & safety
  • Defensive driving techniques
RUNT Official PortalPractice Theory Questions Free
Step by Step

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.

Cost Breakdown

Colombian Driving Licence Fees#

Total cost COP 500,000–1,500,000 — varies by city, driving school, and licence category

Driving school (CEA) — theory + practicalCOP 300,000–900,000
Medical & psychotechnical exam (CRC)COP 150,000–250,000
RUNT registration feeCOP 50,000–80,000
Licence issuance (Secretaria de Movilidad)COP 80,000–150,000
Photos & documentationCOP 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.

Categories

Licence Categories & Minimum Age

A1 — Motorcycles up to 125cc

16

years

A2 — Motorcycles over 125cc

18

years

B1 — Cars up to 3,500 kg, max 9 passengers

Most common category

16

years

B2 — Ambulances, emergency vehicles

Special training required

18

years

B3 — Taxis, public transport (up to 9 pax)

Requires B1 + experience

18

years

C1 — Trucks 3,500–7,500 kg

18

years

C2 — Trucks 7,500–10,500 kg

18

years

C3 — Trucks over 10,500 kg + articulated

18

years

Licence Validity Periods

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

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.

Speed limits in Colombia by zone type and vehicle category, in km/h. Source: Codigo Nacional de Transito.
Zone TypeCars / Light VehiclesMotorcyclesTrucks / BusesNote
Urban residential / School zone303030Zonas residenciales y escolares
Urban general606060Vias urbanas generales
Rural roads808080Carreteras secundarias
Highway (autopista)10010080Autopistas nacionales
Highway (fast sections)120120100Autopistas 4G / troncales

Urban residential / School zone

30

Cars

30

Motos

30

Heavy

Zonas residenciales y escolares

Urban general

60

Cars

60

Motos

60

Heavy

Vias urbanas generales

Rural roads

80

Cars

80

Motos

80

Heavy

Carreteras secundarias

Highway (autopista)

100

Cars

100

Motos

80

Heavy

Autopistas nacionales

Highway (fast sections)

120

Cars

120

Motos

100

Heavy

Autopistas 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.

Comparendos

Traffic Fines & Comparendos#

Fines measured in SMDLV (Salario Minimo Diario Legal Vigente) — 1 SMDLV = COP ~46,100 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 46,100. Fines range from 4 SMDLV for minor infractions to 45 SMDLV for serious violations. DUI under 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.

Traffic fines in Colombia under the Codigo Nacional de Transito. Amounts in SMDLV (1 SMDLV approx. COP 46,100).
ViolationFine (SMDLV)Approx. COPAdditional Penalty
Running red light15~692KImmobilization
DUI — any detectable BAC45~2.1MSuspension + seizure
Speeding 20+ km/h over15~692KImmobilization
Speeding 10–20 km/h over8~369K—
Using phone while driving8~369K—
No seatbelt8~369K—
No SOAT insurance30~1.4MVehicle seized
Expired revision tecnico-mecanica8~369KImmobilization
Violating pico y placa15~692KVaries by city
No helmet (motorcycle)15~692KImmobilization
Driving without licence30~1.4MVehicle seized
Passing in prohibited zone15~692KImmobilization

Running red light

Fine (SMDLV): 15
Approx. COP: ~692K

Additional Penalty: Immobilization

DUI — any detectable BAC

Fine (SMDLV): 45
Approx. COP: ~2.1M

Additional Penalty: Suspension + seizure

Speeding 20+ km/h over

Fine (SMDLV): 15
Approx. COP: ~692K

Additional Penalty: Immobilization

Speeding 10–20 km/h over

Fine (SMDLV): 8
Approx. COP: ~369K

Additional Penalty: —

Using phone while driving

Fine (SMDLV): 8
Approx. COP: ~369K

Additional Penalty: —

No seatbelt

Fine (SMDLV): 8
Approx. COP: ~369K

Additional Penalty: —

No SOAT insurance

Fine (SMDLV): 30
Approx. COP: ~1.4M

Additional Penalty: Vehicle seized

Expired revision tecnico-mecanica

Fine (SMDLV): 8
Approx. COP: ~369K

Additional Penalty: Immobilization

Violating pico y placa

Fine (SMDLV): 15
Approx. COP: ~692K

Additional Penalty: Varies by city

No helmet (motorcycle)

Fine (SMDLV): 15
Approx. COP: ~692K

Additional Penalty: Immobilization

Driving without licence

Fine (SMDLV): 30
Approx. COP: ~1.4M

Additional Penalty: Vehicle seized

Passing in prohibited zone

Fine (SMDLV): 15
Approx. COP: ~692K

Additional Penalty: Immobilization

SMDLV value for 2026: approximately COP 46,100 (based on salario minimo of COP 1,423,500/month). 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.

Start Practicing for Free
Key Rules

Important Driving Rules in Colombia

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.

Zero BAC Tolerance

Absolute zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for ALL drivers since Ley 1696 de 2013. Penalties include licence suspension (1–10 years), vehicle seizure, fines from COP 1,442,000, 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.

Stay Safe

Common Road Hazards in Colombia

~7,800 road fatalities in 2024 — know these hazards to stay safe on Colombian roads

Motorcycle Traffic

Motorcycles represent over 50% of registered vehicles and are involved in ~50% 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

All Departments

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

Colombia's major departments and capital district with transit authority offices.
Department / DistrictTypeCapitalPopulation
Bogota D.C.DistrictBogota7.9M
AntioquiaDepartmentMedellin6.9M
Valle del CaucaDepartmentCali4.8M
AtlanticoDepartmentBarranquilla2.7M
CundinamarcaDepartmentBogota3.2M
SantanderDepartmentBucaramanga2.3M
BolivarDepartmentCartagena2.2M
Norte de SantanderDepartmentCucuta1.6M
TolimaDepartmentIbague1.4M
BoyacaDepartmentTunja1.3M
DC

Bogota D.C.

Bogota · 7.9M

D

Antioquia

Medellin · 6.9M

D

Valle del Cauca

Cali · 4.8M

D

Atlantico

Barranquilla · 2.7M

D

Cundinamarca

Bogota · 3.2M

D

Santander

Bucaramanga · 2.3M

D

Bolivar

Cartagena · 2.2M

D

Norte de Santander

Cucuta · 1.6M

D

Tolima

Ibague · 1.4M

D

Boyaca

Tunja · 1.3M

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.

Emergency

Emergency Numbers

All toll-free, available 24/7. {number} is the single national emergency number.

123

National Emergency (Policia)

119

Fire Department (Bomberos)

132

Ambulance / Red Cross

144

Civil Defence (Defensa Civil)

#767

Transit Police (Policia de Transito)

Myth vs Fact

Common Misconceptions About Driving in Colombia#

Myth: You can have one beer and still legally drive in Colombia

Fact: Colombia has absolute zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) since 2013. Even trace amounts of alcohol result in licence suspension, vehicle seizure, and fines starting at COP 1,442,000. 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 1.4 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.

Timeline

Recent Changes to Colombian Driving Laws#

Key regulatory updates affecting drivers in Colombia

2026

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.

2025

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.

2022

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).

2022

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).

2019

Ley 1951 — Enhanced road safety enforcement

Strengthened penalties for aggressive driving and homicide by vehicle. Required speed limiters on public transport vehicles. Mandatory SOAT verification at fotomulta cameras.

2013

Ley 1696 — Zero BAC tolerance enacted

Absolute zero tolerance for blood alcohol (0.00% BAC) for all drivers. Made Colombia one of few countries in the Americas with complete zero-tolerance policy. Penalties include automatic licence suspension, vehicle seizure, and community service.

Global Context

How Colombia Compares Globally#

Colombia's driving regulations compared to other countries — data compiled from official government sources

Comparison of driving regulations between Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Spain including BAC limits, minimum age, speed limits, licence costs, and road fatality statistics.
ParameterColombiaMexicoBrazilArgentinaSpain
BAC Limit0.00%0.08%0.05%0.05%0.05%
Min. Age (Car)16/1818181718
Driving SideRightRightRightRightRight
Highway Speed120110110130120
Test Questions~30~2030~3030
Licence Cost~COP 1M~$2,000 MXN~R$2,500~$10,000 ARS~€1,500
Road Deaths/yr~7,800~16,000~33,000~5,500~1,800
Deaths/100K~14.0~12.0~15.0~12.0~3.7
BAC Limit0.00%

Strictest in the region — absolute zero for all drivers. Mexico 0.08%, Brazil 0.05%, Argentina 0.05%, Spain 0.05%.

Min. Age (Car)16 (restricted)

16 with restrictions, 18 for full licence. Mexico 18, Brazil 18, Argentina 17, Spain 18.

Highway Speed120 km/h

Same as Spain. Mexico 110, Brazil 110, Argentina 130 km/h.

Licence Cost~COP 1M

Approximately $250 USD total. Mexico ~$100, Brazil ~$500, Argentina ~$50, Spain ~$1,500.

Road Deaths~7,800/yr

~14 per 100K. Mexico ~16K (~12/100K), Brazil ~33K (~15/100K), Argentina ~5.5K (~12/100K), Spain ~1.8K (~3.7/100K).

Road deaths: Colombia ~7,800 (ANSV 2024 est.), 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.

Fact-Checked

Sources & Methodology

Primary Sources

  • Codigo Nacional de Transito — Ley 769/2002 (amended) — Congreso de Colombia
  • Ley 1696/2013 — Zero BAC tolerance — Congreso de Colombia
  • Ley 2251/2022 — Transit code reform — Congreso de Colombia
  • ANSV — Road safety statistics — Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial
  • WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety — World Health Organization
  • RUNT — National Transit Registry — MinTransporte

Verification Methodology

Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:

  1. Primary data collected from Colombian legislation and government decrees
  2. Cross-verified against MinTransporte data, ANSV reports, and WHO global data
  3. Regional variations noted where applicable (fees and pico y placa rules differ by city)
  4. Page reviewed and fact-checked on {date}

If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.

FAQ

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 absolute zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for all drivers since Ley 1696 de 2013. Any detectable alcohol results in licence suspension (1–10 years depending on severity), vehicle seizure, fines starting at COP 1,442,000, 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 46,100 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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Pawan Priyadarshi

Founder & Chief Engineer

Last updated: March 27, 2026Reviewed by Pawan Priyadarshi

Data sourced from Colombian legislation (Ley 769/2002, Ley 1696/2013, Ley 2251/2022), MinTransporte, ANSV, RUNT, and WHO. Cross-referenced with multiple authoritative sources for accuracy.

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